Buying Used Motorcycles: What Should Consider

January 14th, 2010 | by admin |

used bike guide

The engine roars, the metal shines, and thepressure is on to buy. The bike looks great and it seems like a reasonable deal but have you done your homework?

PICK A BIKE THAT SUITS YOU
Be aware of what you need and not what your impulses scream, the bike you want might not be the bike you need. Avoid the impulse purchase and consider logistics such as your body size and level of experience. Equally important as comfort are finances. Consider that a bike is not just the initial purchase but also the cost of maintaining the motorcycle. Gas prices and general repairs can add up quickly!

KNOW YOUR BIKES
With so many choices make sure you shop around for the perfect deal. Make use of research tools like the internet to investigate private deals. If you end up buying from an individual use your common sense and good judgment. The best part of buying privately is the money you can save right off the starting blocks. If you go with a dealership it gives you a sense of comfort in terms ofwarranty and experienced salespeople but be ready to hold back until the price is right. Remember dealerships want your business and are willing to negotiate to make the sale.

BE THOROUGH WITH THE DOCUMENTS
The best thing is to schedule a meeting with the person selling the bike to go over all the documents and policies for buying or selling a vehicle in your country. If the meeting goes well and you are satisfied with the paperwork then take the extra precaution of having a vehicle check done. If all that works out then you can sign on the dotted line with confidence.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL
Never buy a bike you haven’t personally seen. If you don’t understand the mechanical side of a vehicle, bring along a mechanically inclined friend to give you honest advice. It is ideal to see a bike in broad daylight and at the seller’s garage. Check the general status of the motorcycle, tires, and engine. Have your documents handy to confirm and match the VIN numberform the bike to the ownership. ‘Clocking’ is becoming a problem with used motorcycles so insist on precise details to determine themileage the bike has. All motorcycles should be taken for a spin before you sign your paperwork. Go for a drive and get an idea of how the bike feels and if it is comfortable. This process takes time but it is worth it and will give you the confidence that you are making a solid purchase.

TRUST YOUR INSTINCT
The last piece of advice is if there’s a little voice inside your head cautioning you against this particular purchase don’t ignore it – there are plenty of bikes and you will find the right one.

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