Used Motorcycle Inspection Checklist
Shopping for a used motorcycle is an excellent way to save yourself money and ensure that you still get a great bike that you’ll ride for hundreds of miles. The used motorcycle marketplace contains thousands of models in great condition, and some are essentially like-new. You can look online and in classified ads, of course, but shopping with a reputable motorcycle dealer like us is a great way to go. Regardless of where you buy your motorcycle from, it is important to inspect it thoroughly to determine whether it will meet your needs.
Cool Springs Powersports in Franklin is your Tennessee used motorcycle dealer, so we’ve assembled this helpful checklist so you can figure out just what you need to look for when purchasing a used bike.
Things to Bring
When heading out to look at a used bike, there are a couple of things you should bring with you:
- A flashlight so that you can examine every nook and cranny of the bike.
- A screwdriver to test the spokes.
- Your phone, to jot down notes and take photos.
- Cash to pay a deposit or the full price, depending on what the seller requests. Always bring enough cash to pay the whole price, just in case.
Examining the Body
Dents or scratches on the body of a motorcycle may be cosmetic, but they may also be indicative of a serious issue, like a collision. If the body looks really rough and dinged up, this may mean you should pass on the bike. A few light scratches are common enough, but you don’t want any paint to be flaking off.
Check the chrome and other metal parts for signs of rust and corrosion that indicate neglect. Test the seat to make sure the foam is still good and that it’s comfortable. If there are add-on features like a windshield, make sure these seem to be installed properly.
Look Over the Engine
Your next order of business is to check the engine of the bike. Always examine an engine if it’s cold; if the bike is warm to the touch, then the seller may have started it up to let it run through issues. Any reputable seller will allow you to start up the bike and test drive it to make sure that it runs smoothly and doesn’t make any strange noises or produce smoke and that the clutch doesn’t slip on you. Check the oil to make sure that it’s clean, also.
Check Tires
The tires should be in reasonably good condition with sufficient tread depth and no bald patches. You should check the wheels for any dents and spin them to see if they wobble. Tap each spoke with the handle of a screwdriver to listen for a “ping” sound that indicates a nice and tight spoke.
Seeking used motorcycles near Nashville, TN? Come on down to our dealership in Franklin, TN, to check out our fine selection of used motorcycles for sale. Cool Springs Powersports serves greater Nashville, as well as the cities of Spring Hill and Columbia, TN.