4 Mistakes To Avoid When Purchasing A Pre-Owned Motorcycle

Whether you want a bike to race at the track or a motorcycle to use for your daily commute, purchasing a pre-owned motorcycle can be a cost-effective way to make your wish come true. But, when buying pre-owned motorcycles, it is essential to be an informed consumer so you don't end up with a bike that has numerous problems and turns into a money pit. When shopping for a pre-owned motorcycle, avoid the following mistakes:

Not Checking the VIN 

While most people or dealerships selling pre-owned motorcycles are very honest, it is important to protect yourself by always checking the vehicle identification number (VIN) on a used bike before making a purchase. Having the VIN will allow you to verify that the person selling the motorcycle is legally able to do so and that the bike has not been stolen. In addition, when you have the VIN, you can order a history report that will inform you of any past accidents that the motorcycle may have been involved in.

Checking Out a Bike That is Already Warmed Up

 When a motorcycle is already warmed up, a lot of problems can be hidden. If you're interested in checking out a specific pre-owned motorcycle, always request that the seller or dealership allow you to look at the bike cold. When you're looking at a motorcycle that is cold, you will be able to see how well it starts up and what it sounds like the first couple of minutes that it is running. This can tell you a lot about the mechanical health of a bike and help you decide if it is a good purchase.

Neglecting to Examine the Overall Condition of a Motorcycle

Purchasing a pre-owned vehicle should not be a rash decision. Take the time to do a full visual examination of the bike to give you a better idea of its condition and how well it has been maintained. Always check the oil level, as well as the color and level of the brake fluid. You also need to take a look at the tires-- matching tires in good condition are a plus. Don't hesitate to ask about the maintenance that has been performed-- if a seller or dealership is able to provide receipts for repairs and maintenance done, that is a good sign.

Failing to Have a Mechanic Look at the Motorcycle

If you're very interested in a pre-owned motorcycle after examining it and taking it for a test drive, you should always hire a mechanic to do a comprehensive inspection before any money changes hand. An experienced motorcycle mechanic may identify issues that you may not be aware of, which can prevent you from buying a bike that doesn't have a lot of life in it. If the mechanic doesn't find any problems, you will have the peace of mind of knowing that the motorcycle is mechanically sound. 

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