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Buying a used motorcycle can be overwhelming and, at the same time, challenging, especially for first-timers. However, it's practical and could be the best choice if you know
what to look for.
In buying a used motorcycle, there are many things to consider aside from its appearance. This detailed guide will help you gather all the things you need to ask and look for in purchasing a used motorcycle.

Should I Buy a Used Motorcycle?

The decision to buy a brand-new motorcycle or a used one is a personal choice and can be a tough one. However, it shouldn't be.
Just consider all the factors that may affect your decision, like what fits your budget and if the motorcycle fits your wants and lifestyle.

Although purchasing a used motorcycle can save money, its cost is determined by market demand and other elements like mileage and condition.

Is it Worth Buying a Used Motorcycle from a Dealer?

There are many benefits to buying a used motorcycle from a dealer instead of a private seller.
Since the dealer might be held accountable if the motorcycle they sell is damaged or problematic, dealers often only accept trade-ins that are in decent condition.
A warranty from a dealer may also be available, adding another layer of security. The dealership may also assist you with financing and bike registration, unlike private sellers that usually demand cash.
It is also crucial to choose a trusted dealership like Full Throttle, which has served many satisfied clients already in Houston, Texas.

Tips for buying a used motorcycle

In buying a used motorcycle, one can score a great deal. However, it can also come with some risks.
However, these risks can be avoided when you keep these tips in mind:

1. Research types of motorcycles

There are a lot of types of motorcycles available in the market. These motorcycles differ not only in appearance but also speed and many more areas to fit the differing needs and wants of every person.

It's essential to identify what you envision your experience to be like and what motorcycle can best provide this experience. In addition, it's crucial to pick a bike that will work with your riding style and surroundings.

2. Decide where to buy

There are two ways to purchase a used motorcycle: a dealership or a private seller. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
However, as mentioned earlier, buying from a dealership has more benefits. To protect their credibility, dealerships only sell motorcycles in good condition.

3. Research any motorcycle you're considering

Most of the time, people who want a motorcycle have found one that makes them want one. However, when you start researching about it, you find more options.
Researching more about the motorcycles you're considering is a good course of action before buying one.

And to acquire a sense of reasonable market prices, research motorcycle prices, maintenance, and other factors.

4. Check out the bike's condition

If you're considering buying a used motorcycle, never commit online or just by seeing photos. Instead, see it in person with a mechanic to ensure it's in good shape.
Check the tires for signs of damage and uneven wear and the fuel tank inside and out for dents and rust.
Also, check the body for damage indicators like dings or scrapes. It is best to see shiny and rust-free chrome and paint.
As for the drive chain and sprocket: If you can move these without difficulty, the sprocket may be worn out or improperly maintained.
After checking all these, test drive the motorcycle to feel how it runs; if it just feels like the right one for you.

Questions to ask when buying a used motorcycle

When buying a used motorcycle, have all your questions answered before purchasing it.
And for you to not miss any of these critical questions; here's a list of questions to ask when buying:

• How long have you had the motorcycle?
• Do you know when the tires were last changed?
• How have you kept the paint in such good condition?
• What accessories and customizations have been added?
• Has the clutch been changed?
• How long has it been since the fork seals and suspension fluid were changed?
• Do you have the paperwork for the last service? Was it a major or minor?
• What's the bike's maintenance history?
• What oil do you usually use? What gas?
• Have you wheelied it?
• What's the fastest you have taken it?
• Has it ever been on a track day?
• Is there anything wrong with the bike?
• Why are you selling?

The answers to these questions will not only help in deciding whether you should purchase it in the first place, but it can also help you know the current condition of the motorcycle and what you need to do to improve it if there's anything that needs improving.

What to Look for When Buying a Used Bike

If you've already found a used motorcycle that fits your style and budget, consider the other essential factors before making a decision.

Here's a quick guide to help you know whether a used motorcycle for sale is something you should buy:

 

Research the Bike First!

To determine a motorcycle's approximate fair market worth, conduct online research using retail price guidelines or read used motorcycle listings. Research is key in determining whether the price and the motorcycle’s function itself is right for you.

VIN & Title

Request a copy of the motorcycle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), so you can check its history to ensure it hasn't been damaged or it's been a stolen motorcycle.

Some dealerships offer a service to conduct such research for you, either free of charge or at an additional expense. If you have the VIN, you can also conduct the study independently.

A title history report will also list the dates and number of DMV registrations the motorcycle has received. In addition, you can see how many registered owners the motorcycle has had throughout its ownership.

 

General Condition

There are a few crucial things you should check for thoroughly inspecting the motorcycle up for sale. Read till the end of this article if you want to avoid spending too much money on maintenance in the future.

Mileage

A motorcycle that has been parked in the garage for the majority of its life will have different problems than one that has been used frequently.

However, mileage has an impact on price and lets you know which parts will require replacement soon.

Most motorcycles may easily surpass 100,000 miles when maintained properly. Riders put about 3,000 miles on a bike annually on average. However, sports bikes frequently have fewer miles, whereas touring bikes frequently have 10,000 miles on them annually.

Although mileage can be used to determine a motorbike's "worth" before buying it, it doesn't always indicate whether a secondhand motorcycle is good or bad. Here are some things to think about and why motorcycle mileage alone isn't very informative:

Motorcycle Type

Touring motorbikes are built to go long distances and can easily surpass other bikes in terms of mileage. Their low-revving engines don't have to work very hard because they are more likely to have a lot of highway miles, which are easier on the chassis and drivetrain than city miles.

Additionally, motorcycles using air cooling typically have lower life spans.

Frequency of Use

Be cautious in purchasing a motorcycle that has gotten minimal use and has been in storage for a while. Due to dried seals, leaks, moisture buildup, and general deterioration, it will undoubtedly have problems when placed back into use.

Usage

Ask these questions: How is the motorcycle being started? Where does the owner usually take it? Although the answer to these questions may manifest on the motorcycle’s condition.

Maintenance

Perhaps maintenance is more crucial than mileage! Even low miles won't mean anything if it hasn't been maintained because the bike may have pricey and severe issues.

Ownership History

It's best to purchase a motorcycle directly from the owner. Although having multiple owners isn't always bad, it increases the likelihood that its maintenance history is unknown and that some owners have been less careful and organized with its storage than others.

Storage

It's also crucial to ask where the motorcycle was stored. For example, was the bike stored in a climate-controlled environment or left outside?

Storage can affect the motorcycle's condition, which may also show in its condition.

Vehicle History Report

Getting a vehicle history report is a smart move before making your purchase. This way, you'll find out about the alleged damage reported mishaps, previous odometer readings, and many more.

Used Motorcycle Inspection Checklist

Make sure you know what to look for when examining a secondhand motorcycle you're looking to buy.

Some of the essential items are included in this checklist.

Engine

Look over the engine, checking for wear or damage on the outer cases, the engine block, or any fluid leaks where components connect. On the top of the engine, check for coolant leaks.

At gasket seams, check for oil leaks. Finally, check the drain plug and any oil drips underneath the motorcycle.

Frame

If the frame is made of steel rather than aluminum, check it for any missing paint or corrosion protection that can allow it to rust

Body & Paint

Be on the lookout for damage or neglected maintenance. For example, look for leaks from shocks or struts whose seals need to be replaced or whose units require replacement. Also, check any bushings connecting suspension parts for cracks and drying out.

 

Suspension

Look for any bends, scratches, or damage to the legs and seal leakage at the forks. Also, ask when the fork seals were last replaced, which should typically take place every 20,000 miles.

Bearings

On a motorcycle, most of the bearings are sealed and won't need any maintenance. Also, they shouldn't be oily because that would mean the bearing has more grease outside than inside.
Try to move each bearing while listening for any squeaks that suggest the bearing requires replacement or, at the very least, re-greasing.

Fluid Leaks

Check the fuel tank. The engine shouldn't be leaking any oil. So, keep an eye out for any signs of a fluid leak, which may leave a trail on the ground or inside the motorcycle as it descends to the ground. Check the radiator and all rubber hose connections for coolant leakage. Leaks may also be detected by smell; for example, coolant smells sweet, and oil smells strong.

Chain and Sprocket

Make sure the chain is oiled correctly. Chain grease is distinct from most other lubricants used on motorcycles and will appear waxy.

Its purpose is to adhere to the chain and offer protection from moisture and mud.

Therefore, during the chain's rotation, it shouldn't come off.

Cables and Wiring

The cables should function smoothly and without any evidence of fraying (breaks or unraveling), whether connected to the clutch, brakes, or speedometer.
If you press down on a lever and encounter resistance or hear scraping, the cable might need to be changed.

Tires

Check the front wheel and back. All tires, front and rear, contain wear indicators between the treads to let drivers know when the tread depth is too shallow for safe use in rainy conditions. You should be able to see a depth indicator if you look in between the treads

Bodywork

Keep an eye out for any bodywork condition. The bodywork should appear a little weathered from rocks and bugs over the miles on the road if the motorcycle has been driven
a bit.
If the bodywork appears too flawless, it might have been changed. Ask whether it is the motorcycle's original or has been changed.

Bar Ends, Brake Levers, and Footpegs

The foot pegs, lever, and bar ends are frequently the first parts of a motorbike to contact the ground when it tips over. Ask and see for yourself if there are scratches or scuffs. Also check the integrity of the front brake lever.

Forks

The forks should be straight and devoid of scratches. The seals shouldn't exhibit any indications of fluid leakage, nor should they be fractured and at risk of doing so in the future.

Battery

Verify the battery tag's date. On the motorcycle, a dot or other symbol should show the month and year that it was originally placed into use.

Brake Fluid

Check the brake fluid's condition and level. The reservoir should be made of explicit material or have a sight window that displays accurate level information.

Its low value may have an impact on braking effectiveness. Therefore, before you go for a test ride, you should have it filled to the indicator mark.

Fuel Tank

From top to bottom, inspect the gasoline tank. It needs to be tightly sealed and have no fuel smell. If it does, then it might be a bad sign or talk to the seller about how it has happened.

Lighting

Turn signal flashers, gauge indicators, and the light on the license plate should all function properly. First, however, make sure to find out why something doesn't work.

Visual Check

In addition to the items mentioned, step back from the motorcycle and perform a quick visual  inspection.
When you buy a bike, make sure to also compare it to images online of the motorcycle.

Riding Test

Take a test ride to feel the experience of the motorcycle running. Riding the motorcycle can help you decide better. However, it may not feel perfectly fit for you, and this could be a way of knowing how you can customize it according to your style.

Why use a checklist to inspect a motorcycle?

In using an inspection checklist, you will be guided accordingly on what to look for when purchasing a used motorcycle. This way, you can thoroughly inspect the motorcycle.

It's essential to have a checklist for buying a used motorcycle so you can make a decision without any more doubts and hesitations.

Used Motorcycle Price Guide – How Much Is a Used Bike Worth?

One of the best ways to tell if the pricing is reasonable is by using price guides. This helps to determine the bike's value based on its condition, but remember that the blue book value isn't everything.
Here are the top two used motorcycle values guides available:

Kelley Blue Book

Kelly Blue Book is known in the industry. It's the classic blue book for motorcycles. Many experienced riders go to Kelley Blue Book for automotive pricing.
KBB analyzes data from numerous sources and employs tools to forecast market trends.
KBB uses this program to consider a customer's location and regional values.

NADA

On the other hand, Nada gives used motorcycle book values Pricoing prices for new motorcycles. With Nada, one can also use it to go through trade-in prices, reviews, specifications, and images.
NADAguides was founded in 1933 and collaborates with industry experts in the automobile field. It gathers information from dealership and auction vehicle sales and pricing data from websites hosting transactions.

Always remember to negotiate the price if possible, especially when you detect specific damages or areas that need improvement and you’re willing to take on yourself.

Where to Buy a Used Motorcycle

Find a dealership or private seller that also meets your needs in buying a used motorcycle. Knowing their values is essential to be more at ease in putting your trust in them.
Here are some more things you need to consider when deciding where to buy your machine:

Pricing

A private seller will typically give a lower price than a dealership if pricing is a concern. The private seller does not need additional resources like personnel, a facility, or other expenses related to operating a business.
Find a seller or dealer who sells a used motorcycle that is within your price range.

Quality

You will probably get a dependable motorcycle if you purchase from independently owned dealerships, franchised dealers, or independent stores.
Dealerships usually just accept motorcycles in good condition because it affects their credibility to sell damaged motorcycles.

Service History

Some motorbike owners are incredibly diligent and may have all the necessary invoices and maintenance records to back up their claims, while others may have nothing to present.
Unfortunately, the only history that a dealership typically has is from the time they received the motorcycle.    

Warranty

The dealer could give a limited warranty if a problem arises with the motorcycle within a specific time frame or the miles it has been driven since you purchased it.
A motorcycle is often sold by a private seller "as is" without any included or implied warranties.

Ownership History

Before buying a motorcycle, dealerships typically conduct an ownership history investigation to ensure it hasn't been stolen or written off by an insurance company. However,
if a private seller is aware of the motorcycle's past, they might not be willing to discuss it.
You should be able to request a written history of the motorcycle from the dealer.

Repairs

When problems with the motorcycle develop after you buy it, the service department of motorcycle dealerships are frequently equipped to handle them.
A secondhand motorbike sold privately might have undergone extensive maintenance and major repair. Still, the seller might not have received the same training as a dealer or repair facility staff member.

Financing

Most of the time, private sellers won't provide you with a financing alternative. So most of the time, you'll have to pay in cash or with a check.
A dealership may offer private financing options or manage the transaction using an approved lender.

Title Transfers

If the motorcycle is being sold privately, they should give you the title of ownership, and you need to process the transfer yourself. A dealer will frequently include all of that additional work in the purchase.

What to Do After Buying a Used Motorcycle

After making your purchase, get your motorcycle examined by a licensed motorcycle mechanic. Your main priority should always be your safety. Next, make sure to acquire
motorcycle insurance.
To safeguard your investment, you must already know the type of maintenance the motorcycle needs. And if there are areas you know need to be fixed and improved, do so before taking a long ride.

Choose a trusted dealership to trust your life with

In choosing the right motorcycle, the best decision you can make is to find a trusted dealership that sells used motorcycles in good condition.
Full Throttle is a trusted dealership owned and operated in Houston, Texas. Many motorcycle enthusiasts have put their trust in Full Throttle to find used motorcycles that are undoubtedly in their best condition.