Hey guys, I'm new to the forums so I thought I would ask you guys a question. I'm looking at a 2002 954 w/ 18000 miles for $5000.The guys willing to negotiate the price, but is 18000 miles to high? its been painted but that really doesn't bother me. I'm most likely going to turn it into a semi stunt bike. We'll see. I was thinking about asking him to go down to 4200 depending on the bikes condition. What should I look for with these bikes. Any problemsthey might have with high mileage? Any input is welcomed. Thanks

 

Well past 18k here and no problems at all. Always offer them less first of all . Ask why its been painted, usually because its been down at some point, but see if they are honest with ya. Look at the brakes, tires, i always like to take a good look at the frame and welds also. Make sure they start and run it for a bit, make sure it sounds legit, ride it if at all possible. As far as the milage i would not worry about that at all, just see how his maintenance has been, any records of it? The one thing i can think off the bat is if never done you may be looking at a clutch soon if original, maybe having the valves adjusted, and both are pretty easy to do yourself. OK well maybe not the valves, but the clutch is about 125 bucks and super easy to do. If it looks nice and rides nice 4500-5k is a fair price by all means.

 

TK is on point. The only thing I can add is to check the inside of the tank for rust or paint residue (from a shotty paint job) and check the wheels. A couple of friends boughtused bikes... only to discover a cracked and/orbent rim. Also check the vin # with the DMV (with the owner's permission). Lot of stolen bikes floating around this time of year.

 

^^^+1 on the stolen bike part. I forget sometimes how easy it can be to steal a bike. I think the price could be negotiated but isn't too far from a good deal, keeping in mind the points already made by the two post above this. The 54 is an excellent ride, but try not to show too much anxiousness when working the deal.

wildcard