What to Ask When Buying a Used Motorcycle
Buying a used motorcycle comes with a lot of choices, and knowing what to ask can help you find the right fit. Whether you're an experienced rider or purchasing your first bike, the right questions will help you avoid any surprises. In this blog, we’ll cover the key questions to ask when buying a used motorcycle to help you make an informed decision.
Questions to Ask When Buying a Used Motorcycle
The questions you ask while on the market for a motorcycle will not only help you understand the bike's condition but also give you insight into its history, maintenance, and overall value. Let’s take a look at some of the most important questions to ask before you make your decision.
What’s the Motorcycle’s History?
When buying a used motorcycle, understanding its history is one of the most important steps in the process. A bike’s past can reveal a lot about how well it’s been taken care of and what you might expect in the future. For example, if the motorcycle has been in an accident, there could be hidden damage that’s not immediately noticeable. Learning how many owners it’s had is equally helpful—fewer owners may indicate it’s been more consistently cared for, while multiple owners could suggest the bike has had some issues or has simply been passed around.
Service and maintenance records are like a window into how well the bike has been maintained. If the seller can provide these records, it’s a good sign the motorcycle has received proper care. On the flip side, no records might leave you wondering if it’s had routine maintenance or if any major repairs were needed. And don’t forget to check the title. A clean title means the bike hasn’t been written off as a total loss, but a salvaged title could make it harder to insure or sell later on.
Here are a few key questions you’ll want to ask the seller:
Has the bike ever been in an accident?
How many previous owners has it had?
Do you have the service and maintenance records?
Is the title clean or salvaged?
What Condition is the Motorcycle In?
Once you’ve gotten a sense of the motorcycle’s history, the next step is to dig into its current condition. While the history gives you a look at the bike’s past, the condition tells you how it’s holding up right now. Even if a motorcycle has had multiple owners or been through a few repairs, it might still be in great shape if it’s been well-maintained. That’s why following up your history questions with ones about its condition is so important—it helps paint a complete picture of what you’re buying.
Start by asking about any mechanical or electrical issues the bike might have. These can range from minor annoyances to major repairs that could cost you down the road. Checking the condition of the tires and brakes is also essential, as these are some of the most important components for your safety. Worn tires or brakes will need to be replaced, which could add to the cost of the bike.
You’ll also want to know if the motorcycle has had any recent repairs or part replacements. While some repairs can actually be a good thing—like a fresh set of brakes—others might signal ongoing issues. Finally, make sure to ask if the engine runs smoothly. A smooth-running engine is a strong indicator of the bike’s overall health and can save you from unexpected breakdowns after purchase.
To get a clear picture of the motorcycle’s condition, make sure to ask these questions:
Are there any mechanical or electrical issues?
Are the tires and brakes in good shape?
Has it had any recent repairs or part replacements?
Does the engine run smoothly?
How’s the Mileage?
Mileage is an important factor to consider when buying a used motorcycle, as it gives you insight into how much the bike has been used and how much life it may still have. The bike’s condition and history reveal a lot, but knowing the exact mileage can help round out your full understanding of the bike’s potential. A motorcycle with higher mileage can still be in great shape if it’s been properly maintained, but lower mileage typically means less wear on the engine, tires, and other key components.
It’s also worth noting that some motorcycles handle high mileage better than others. For instance, a Honda Gold Wing can easily go over 100,000 miles and still run smoothly, thanks to its design for long-distance touring. On the other hand, a smaller sportbike like a Yamaha R6 may need more attention or even be retired around 50,000 miles, as these bikes are built for performance and shorter rides. Understanding the type of motorcycle you’re looking at can help you set realistic expectations for how many miles are too many.
To make sure you have a proper understanding of the mileage, ask these questions:
How many miles does the bike have?
Is the mileage consistent with its age and model?
Are There Any Customizations or Modifications?
Motorcycle customizations and modifications are pretty common, and they can either add value or cause complications, depending on what’s been done. It’s important to know if the bike has been changed from its original design because this can impact not only how it rides but also its resale value. For example, upgraded suspension or a custom exhaust can enhance the ride, but changes like that might not always be done with long-term reliability in mind.
You’ll also want to find out if any aftermarket parts were used. While aftermarket parts can boost performance, they’re not always on par with the original manufacturer’s quality. Something like an aftermarket exhaust might give you more power, but if it wasn’t installed properly or the engine wasn’t re-tuned, it could cause issues down the line. Knowing what modifications were made and how they affect the bike will help you figure out if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Be sure to get answers to the following questions:
Has the bike been modified from its original design?
Were any aftermarket parts used, and how do they affect performance?
Can I Take it for a Test Ride?
Asking for a test ride might be the most important part of the buying process. While photos and descriptions can tell you a lot, nothing beats actually getting on the bike and seeing how it feels. A test ride can be the deciding factor in whether or not this used motorcycle is the right one for you. It’s your chance to experience how it handles, check for any issues, and get a real sense of its overall condition.
During the test ride, pay close attention to how the bike handles. Are there any odd sounds or vibrations that don’t feel right? Make sure to test the clutch and gearbox as well. If they’re not functioning smoothly, it could be a sign of wear or bigger mechanical issues. A test ride is your opportunity to spot any red flags and confirm whether this bike is worth buying.
Be sure you’re fully aware of the following when you take the bike for a spin:
How does the bike handle?
Are there any unusual sounds or vibrations?
Is the clutch and gearbox functioning smoothly?
What to Look for When Buying a Used Motorcycle
After asking the important questions and taking the bike for a test ride, it’s time to inspect the motorcycle up close. This is your chance to look over all the details and spot anything that might need attention. A thorough inspection can reveal potential issues that weren’t obvious during the test ride, helping you avoid unexpected surprises after the purchase. Here’s a checklist to guide you through the inspection process:
Used Motorcycle Inspection Checklist
☐ Check for rust, corrosion, or leaks. Take a good look at the bike’s frame, engine, and key components for any signs of rust or corrosion, which can indicate long-term exposure to the elements. Leaks are a clear sign that something might need fixing.
☐ Inspect the chain and sprockets for wear. The chain and sprockets play a big role in how smoothly the bike runs. If they show signs of wear, it could mean they’ll need replacing soon.
☐ Test all lights, horn, and electronics. Make sure the lights, indicators, horn, and any other electronics are working properly. Electrical issues can be costly to fix and might point to bigger problems.
☐ Examine the suspension for smooth travel and leaks. Check the front forks and rear shock for smooth movement and look for any oil leaks. The suspension is key to a comfortable and safe ride, so it’s important that everything is in good condition.
Used Motorcycles for Sale at North American Warhorse
If you’re in the market for a reliable used motorcycle, North American Warhorse in Dunmore, near Scranton, PA, is the place to go. We offer a wide selection of high-quality used bikes, each thoroughly inspected to give you peace of mind. Whether you’re looking for a cruiser, sportbike, or touring motorcycle, our knowledgeable team is here to help you find the perfect ride. Contact us today and let us help you find the perfect motorcycle.
Summary
Buying a used motorcycle can be a great way to get a quality bike at a lower price, but it’s important to do your homework first. By asking the right questions, thoroughly inspecting the bike, and taking it for a test ride, you can make sure you’re making a smart purchase. Keep in mind what you’re looking for, take your time, and you’ll find a bike that fits your needs and gives you many miles of enjoyment.
