Hi. I'm Samantha.
#11
07-15-2012, 12:56 PM
#12
07-15-2012, 01:59 PM
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Voorhees, NJ
Posts: 29
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I ask how many owners, status of title, original fairings, if bike has ever been down, modifications, and what maintenance has been done. I also like to get a feel for the owner, as I believe that tells a lot about what condition the bike is in beyond what they are telling me and what can be seen. Does that sound right? Can I post the link in here, or is there a better thread for that?
#13
07-15-2012, 06:05 PM
Retired Super Moderator - At large E=MC2
Here's a link to a blog on used bike evaluation...
Used Motorcycle Evaluation Guide
DO NOT take cash to an initial inspection. There are criminals who use ads as a lure.
If you don't like the neighborhood, leave immediately, without stopping.
There are lots of deals out there, none are worth your safety and/or life.
Be clear in the initial phone conversation that that is your intention.
If they pressure you in any way..."Got another buyer looking, Won't last long, etc."
That's a clear sign of ill intent, IMO.
IF you like what you see, then arrange to meet at a bank to consumate the deal.
You might take $200 cash with you, as a security-"good faith" deposit, anyone with
good intentions should consider that sufficent.
That and your license in his/her hands should also be enough to allow a test drive,
if you feel it's worth considering. If anyone pressures you for more than that,
you should re-consider and look elsewhere.
Be sure to pay off any leans to the bank, personally.
Otherwise, you have no guarentee the previous owner will, in fact, do so.
Leaving you in a legal quagmire on ownership (another reason to meet at a bank
to do the actual purchase).
Finally, don't fall in love with a potential bike until AFTER you buy it.
Keep a cool, synical head during the inspection/pre-purchase phase.
It's always good to bring a friend that sneers/doubts everything,
for a healthy reality check.
Good luck, Ern
Used Motorcycle Evaluation Guide
DO NOT take cash to an initial inspection. There are criminals who use ads as a lure.
If you don't like the neighborhood, leave immediately, without stopping.
There are lots of deals out there, none are worth your safety and/or life.
Be clear in the initial phone conversation that that is your intention.
If they pressure you in any way..."Got another buyer looking, Won't last long, etc."
That's a clear sign of ill intent, IMO.
IF you like what you see, then arrange to meet at a bank to consumate the deal.
You might take $200 cash with you, as a security-"good faith" deposit, anyone with
good intentions should consider that sufficent.
That and your license in his/her hands should also be enough to allow a test drive,
if you feel it's worth considering. If anyone pressures you for more than that,
you should re-consider and look elsewhere.
Be sure to pay off any leans to the bank, personally.
Otherwise, you have no guarentee the previous owner will, in fact, do so.
Leaving you in a legal quagmire on ownership (another reason to meet at a bank
to do the actual purchase).
Finally, don't fall in love with a potential bike until AFTER you buy it.
Keep a cool, synical head during the inspection/pre-purchase phase.
It's always good to bring a friend that sneers/doubts everything,
for a healthy reality check.
Good luck, Ern
Last edited by MadHattr059; 07-15-2012 at 06:09 PM.
#17
07-22-2012, 10:48 AM
Join Date: Jul 2012
Location: Voorhees, NJ
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Bikes and cars are male-dominated hobbies, as is my other interest: working out. So, I'm used to it. I'm somewhat of a tomboy and generally get along better with dudes. 
#18
07-22-2012, 01:10 PM
Retired Super Moderator - At large E=MC2
Glad you found it interesting and informative. Here's another good read...
Motorcycle Info and Accessories
Ern
Motorcycle Info and Accessories
Ern
#19
07-22-2012, 04:51 PM
Member
#20
07-22-2012, 07:18 PM
Super Moderator
Cheers, SB
