It is easy to fail when purchasing a used motorcycle. Many sellers try to hide a lot of information regarding the vehicle or try to overcharge it. To avoid all types of unpleasant situations, we strongly recommend that you run a full-fledged inspection of the vehicle before you pay money for it.
What to Start With?
A test ride will provide valuable insight into a used motorcycle, but before doing so, a preliminary check-up and a visual inspection should be done to identify possible problems:
- Check the history of the target vehicle – Request the FaxVIN report containing information regarding the full history, model specs, and the owner list of this specific motorcycle. If there are any accident issues, severe breakage, or highjacking, this information will be definitely covered in the report.
- Collect detailed information regarding the model – Read specialized forums, official sites, and other resources dedicated to the model that you want to purchase. There may be someone who ran into problems. Get to know regarding the issues. It is possible that some problems may be common for a particular motorcycle.
- Check the mileage – Thus, it will be easier for you to assess the actual condition of the means of transport and the effectiveness of the motor.
- Look if there are any traces – Not to buy a pig in a poke, you should always check for any traces of deterioration.
Let’s go into detail so that you know what to do.
1. Collect Model Information
Before you go to inspect a motorcycle, get as much information as possible regarding the model you are interested in. Each type of vehicle has its typical flaws. So, knowing their characteristics, you can easily check if the target motorcycle has any of them.
2. Check the VIN Number Carefully
The first thing to check when inspecting your motorcycle is that the VIN number printed on the top of the frame matches the number on the documents attached to the vehicle. Any non-compliance will lead to problems during clearance, checks, or police control. It will not take more than 5 minutes to run the VIN check on the dedicated online service. Just enter the full VIN number in the input field and get a detailed report.
3. Check the Mileage of the Motorcycle
The mileage reading won’t tell you much. Not only is it very easy to change mileage, but you also don’t know how the bike was used. Therefore, the main thing here is comparing the odometer parameter to the relevant motorcycle data. If the two are severely depleted or you are dealing with a typical touring enduro, low mileage is unlikely the case here.
4. Look for the Traces of the Accident
Knobs, switches, brake pedal, mirrors, gear lever, and footrests – what connects all these? Each of these elements can tell you regarding a motorcycle adventure. Deterioration or damage to these elements is most often the result of an accident. If you notice such signs, let a red light turn on in your head.
Safe Purchase Can Be a Reality
Although the checklist is quite long, it will help you find and purchase a good motorbike without overpaying or worrying regarding the technical specs of the vehicle.