You want to buy a motorbike and get your money ready! So, what’s the next step? Do you know what to consider before buying it? Take a look at our advices for a safe vintage ride.
Questions to bear in mind when buying a brand-new motorbike
Supposing that all the motorcycle testing and measurements are properly done when buying a brand-new motorbike would be a false perception. Due to logistic issues and transportation costs, some motorcycle manufacturers and suppliers follow different methods of measurement such as first putting the motorbike into tests in one-piece and then taking it apart to transfer easily.
Even an expert could make a mistake while assembling the parts of motorbike. So, it would be for your own good to get your motorbike retested.
Check carefully the handlebars and mirrors
Before buying, the first thing you should do is to check handlebars and mirrors if they are montaged properly. If the handlebars stand firm when you put your weight into it, there is nothing wrong with the montage layout. That means they are disassembled properly. As for the mirrors, they are tightened with a reverse threaded screw. So, the extra attention should be paid to their adjustment. If not, the mirrors will rotate even with a minor shake. Do not forget to check if they are adjusted properly before buying your motorcycle.
Brake and Clutch Levers should be checked
The second thing you should do is to check brake and clutch levers. Some models are designed with wet type multi-plate clutch with coil springs, which need an extra attention when adjusting the parts. To check if it is adjusted properly; when you press the clutch lever for changing gears, the coil springs in the clutch compressed and the pressure plate expands allowing the stake of clutch plates to move independently. To check the brake pads; without starting the engine, spin the wheel while you are braking. If the wheels don’t move when you brake, everything’s fine. The next step is to check the signal indicators and electricity. Headlight, taillight and the horn should also be checked respectively. If they don’t work properly, they should be replaced.
What to inspect before buying 2nd hand motorbike
After running through the prices, you decided to buy second hand motorbike. The first thing to consult is the license of the motorcycle. Its service records should be reviewed. The file of maintenance receipts should be tracked and documented. Even an average motorbike can be used for years if the basic motorcycle maintenance procedures are followed properly. So, don’t miss reviewing the maintenance records of the motorbike you are planning to buy.
Vehicle Inspection Reports and Tracks
You can easily access the latest information about your second-hand motorbike via Insurance Information and Monitoring Center. If you text license plate number to 5664, you can access the records of the vehicle. The message will provide you with most up-to-date records in detail; the latest vehicle inspection report, km info, damage report and its details. Keep your eye open on odometer fraud! You should absolutely compare the km info you get from the seller with the info you get via text message.
Check the vehicle identification number
The vehicle identification number is the most important thing to check. You should absolutely get help from an expert at this stage. If the chassis is dyed, you should be doubtful. If it is not dyed, you should also check the big metal parts. Check also the fuel tank if it is dyed or not. You can get a clue from the tone diversity.