Tips For Inspecting A Used Motorcycle

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A motorcycle can really open up your commuting options, whether for short routes or longer distances. However, buying new bikes can be more expensive than you’d like. Luckily, the used motorcycle market is truly vast and much cheaper so you can get the bike of your dreams for a more affordable sum.

At Cycles of Jacksonville, we want you to be able to select the right bike so we’ve created this inspection checklist for you to keep in mind. To find out more or to check used motorcycles for sale in Jacksonville, FL, get in touch with us and one of our friendly sales staff will help you out! We’re also the leading used motorcycle dealer for Orlando and St. Augustine!

What to Bring

When you head out to inspect a used bike, there are some items you should take along to make your task easier. Be sure to carry the following:

Money: If you end up liking the bike, you might have to pay a deposit to have the dealer hold it for you. You should carry enough cash to at least book the used motorcycle you choose.
Flashlight: Bikes have dark recesses, nooks and crannies that can be hard to inspect, especially when indoors. A flashlight will help you check those hard-to-see places.
Notebook and pen/pencil: You might check out quite a few models with different pros and cons that you’ll want to jot down to make your decision later. You’ll also ask pertinent questions and should note down the answers to refresh your memory when you’re making a decision.

The Body

You should inspect the body of the used motorcycle as closely as possible. Too many dents and scratches can indicate more than you think. They reveal previous collisions and issues. If the body looks worse for wear, it may have been in many crashes, which can affect the parts and the overall performance of the machine.

When inspecting the used motorcycle body, make sure to cover:

Fuel tank: does it sport an untouched paint coat free of flakes?
Fenders and side covers: is it free of scratches and dents?
Seat: is it free of any tears or collapsed foam?
Chrome: is it without rust?
If you can’t answer yes to every question, be cautious.

Some used bikes come with aftermarket additions like windshields. This can be good for you because they’re basically a free add-on. Just ensure that the windshield was installed correctly, since poor installations can lead to problems with a bit of usage and time. Enquire if it’s a permanent or a removable addition, and if it is a permanent one, make sure you are happy with that size and style since you’re stuck with it.

The Engine

Before you reach the destination, call the seller and let them know you want to inspect the used motorcycle cold. This is essential because if the engine is run before you inspect the bike, there are some underlying problems you might miss. If you don’t want to end up with a lemon, make sure the engine is cold before you check it. Otherwise, it’ll run smoothly when you test it because its startup issues are hidden

When you arrive, run through this checklist:

Engine smoke: be concerned if it’s heavy or odd-colored (like deep black or blue)
Engine sound: any odd rattles or rumbles are red flags
The exhaust: make sure it is free of damage and leaks
Transmission: if it jumps out of gear on your test drive, walk away
Clutch: if it drags or slips on your test drive, say no

The engine can run some of the most costly repairs. If anything seems off, listen to your gut. You may be saving yourself expensive repairs down the road!

The Electronics

Another area where repairs can end up costing a lot is the electrical components of your used bike. Take care to inspect the different electrical systems.

Lights: test the signal and brake lights as well as the high and low beams, ensure the indicator and instrument lights work
Horn: make sure it’s loud and proud
Battery: it needs to start without issue
Any added accessories: ensure they are installed correctly and won’t require you to pay for a professional fixing
Charging system: run the engine and hit the brake - this should make the headlight get brighter as the charging system engages

The Tires

You will be relying on the tires of your used motorcycle to get you where you want to go, so spare some time to check them thoroughly. Look at the following:

Tires: these should be free of dry rot and offer plenty of tread
Wheels: check for dents and for any wobble when you spin the wheel
Spokes: hit each one with a screwdriver handle. You want a “ping” sound (which signifies a tight spoke) and not a flat sound (which suggests a loose one)
Chain: it should have lubrication and good adjustment
Belt: look for any issues such as cuts or abrasion

We hope this checklist helps you snag the best machine in the lot! Cycles of Jacksonville is your local used motorcycle dealer and we’re here to answer all your questions and address your concerns. To check out used bikes for sale in Jacksonville, Orlando and St. Augustine, FL, contact our sales team for further assistance!