What do I look for on first bike?
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Joined: Apr 2012
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What do I look for on first bike?
im new to bike and would like to know what i should be looking at when going to look at a used bike. any specific areas that would set off alarm bells as to if the bike is a lemon etc.
Party Animal, ROTM June 2014
Joined: Oct 2008
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The best advice I have is to do your homework. If you are looking at a particular motorcycle do some research and find out what the common problem areas are on the bike. Also find out if there were any recalls and if they were accomplished.
When you look at the bike check it over for cleanliness and signs that it was cared for. Look at the brake fluid. People always forget to change that and if it is nice and fresh the owner most likely took good care of the machine.
Lastly, shop with your mind, not your heart. Take along a disinterested third party that knows motorcycles to keep you grounded.
When you look at the bike check it over for cleanliness and signs that it was cared for. Look at the brake fluid. People always forget to change that and if it is nice and fresh the owner most likely took good care of the machine.
Lastly, shop with your mind, not your heart. Take along a disinterested third party that knows motorcycles to keep you grounded.
Senior Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 6,494
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Good advice above.
Read as many *used motorcycle buying guides* as you can. Just google that & you'll get lots.
Ask for maintenance records. They will tell a lot. No records = the more thorough you have to be in your inspection.
Ask to see the title. Match the VIN on the title w/ the VIN on the bike. Compare mileage as well. To be safe, do the transaction at the DMV, where if there are any probs, you can take care of them asap w/ both you & the seller there together. Additionally, I recommend also writing up your own Bill of Sale.
If you're looking at a model that has side fairings, ask to see the bike w/ the side fairings off. Shiney fairings can hide sins. If the owner is reluctant to do this, be aware of how much harder you'll have to look.
If you find yourself serious about a particular Honda but still are unsure... You can always ask the seller to meet you at the local Honda service for a *pre-purchase inspection*...usually $85-100. You'll pay for it but it benefits you both. You'll find out if the bike has any problems/needs & so will he. Its cheap insurance when you're considering spending a few thousand.
Good luck w/ your shopping.
Read as many *used motorcycle buying guides* as you can. Just google that & you'll get lots.
Ask for maintenance records. They will tell a lot. No records = the more thorough you have to be in your inspection.
Ask to see the title. Match the VIN on the title w/ the VIN on the bike. Compare mileage as well. To be safe, do the transaction at the DMV, where if there are any probs, you can take care of them asap w/ both you & the seller there together. Additionally, I recommend also writing up your own Bill of Sale.
If you're looking at a model that has side fairings, ask to see the bike w/ the side fairings off. Shiney fairings can hide sins. If the owner is reluctant to do this, be aware of how much harder you'll have to look.
If you find yourself serious about a particular Honda but still are unsure... You can always ask the seller to meet you at the local Honda service for a *pre-purchase inspection*...usually $85-100. You'll pay for it but it benefits you both. You'll find out if the bike has any problems/needs & so will he. Its cheap insurance when you're considering spending a few thousand.
Good luck w/ your shopping.
