Tips to Buy a Used Motorcycle

Though many used motorcycles will still have a lot left in them to offer you, there are plenty of others that contain many issues. So, unless you’re cautious and you can identify red flags, you may end up buying a lemon.

Follow this simple buying guide to learn the tips to purchase a used bike. For more advice, connect with our experts at East Bay Motorsports. We are in Hayward, CA, and happy to welcome our friends from the Bay Area. 

Set a Budget

The first thing you’ll want to do is find out how much you can spend on buying a used motorcycle. Though these vehicles are much more affordable than new models, they still have a wide range of asking prices. Setting a budget will help you narrow down your options so you can pick the best bike that suits your requirements.

Research Your Options

One of the advantages of buying used motorcycles is that you can refer to plenty of available customer reviews. As your preferred bike has been on the market for a while, you can easily find out what current owners say about these models.

So, research various options in your affordable category to find out which bikes you’ll want to seek out at a used motorcycle dealership or the ones you’ll want to cross off of your list.

Perform Thorough Inspection

When buying a used motorcycle, you’ll need to take the time to review its various parts and systems thoroughly. That’s because sometimes a used bike may appear to be in good condition but contain many problems.

So, to avoid buying such models, make sure that you closely inspect the bike to catch any red flags that could be problematic down the road. However, ensure that you examine the motorcycle when it is cold. Crafty sellers can try to start up a bike before you arrive to hide problems that disclose themselves during the first startup.

Ask Questions About the Motorcycle

You’ll want to know everything about the used motorcycle, including how the previous owner or owners kept up with preventive maintenance and why they chose to sell it. Also, you’ll want to note any red flags on the maintenance reports, such as previous accidents or repeat issues. All of this information will help you confirm if the price matches the quality of the bike.

Test Ride the Model

Finally, you’ll want to go on a test drive. Essentially, you’ll need to establish two things—ensure that the motorcycle runs well and that the model fits you perfectly. 

Pay attention to how the bike starts and if it can ride normally. You’ll also want to ensure that it doesn’t jerk when you change gear or swerve to one side when riding. Most importantly, ensure that you feel comfortable sitting on it and you can easily reach the controls.

At this time, you’ll also want to plan any alterations to your motorcycle, such as changing out the seat and handlebars to suit your height. Don’t forget to plan these tweaks into your budget.

We hope this guide helps you choose the perfect used bike for your rides. For more information or to get your concerns addressed, visit East Bay Motorsports in Hayward, CA. We proudly serve our customers from the Bay Area, so reach out today.