What You Should Know Before Buying a Used Motorcycle

What You Should Know Before Buying a Used Motorcycle

Tips for Buying a Second-Hand Motorcycle

The spring will soon be here and, finally, you’re ready to buy that second-hand motorcycle you’ve always wanted. Used motorcycles are plenty in the spring months. If you’re smart, you can still find the bike of your dreams at a good price. Before you start looking, check out what you should know about buying a used motorcycle.

Do Some Background Research

There are many different makes and models of motorcycles. Have a quick look at the typical value of older bikes, keeping in mind that the older it is, the more the value will have depreciated. This will give you a good idea of how much you should be paying. 

Do a Thorough Visual Inspection

Look for misaligned body parts and mismatched colors. Open the gas cap and look inside the tank for possible rust and corrosion. Look closely for scratches under the paint, especially on a black frame. Check the undersides and ensure everything looks as it should from front to rear.

Test for Leaks

Look under the engine and, if applicable, the radiator for signs of escaping fluids. Don’t just check for puddles under the bike, either, the seller may have rolled the bike to a spot-free location before you arrived. Run a finger along the underside of the engine, especially along gasket surfaces to detect signs of leakage.

Test Drive It

Start the engine and listen for loud, unusual noises such as heavy knocks, excessive valve clutter, and odd rumbling sounds. Don’t accept the “they all do that” explanation, either. When driving, try to see if the bike wants to pull to one side when driving in a straight line. Test the brakes for poor stopping ability or other issues.

If you bought a used vehicle, you’ll need to properly insure it! Protecting your motorcycle comes easy to the insurance professionals at All Nevada Insurance. Keep your motorcycle protected with quality insurance in Las Vegas, Nevada today by giving us a call.