Used Motorcycle Inspection Checklist
Used motorcycles can be a budget-friendly option, but not all models are a good deal. Some contain hidden issues that'll result in hefty repair bills down the road. It's important to thoroughly inspect a used motorcycle before investing in it, but it can be tough keeping track of everything you need to look over. We've made the following checklist to make your used motorcycle inspection process a breeze! If you have questions or want to explore used motorcycles for sale, head over to BMW Motorcycles of Burbank. Our dealership is based in Burbank, California, and we also serve those in Pasadena and Glendale.
Items to Bring
You will want to pack a few key items for your used motorcycle inspection:
- Cash: Depending on the seller’s requirements, you will either need to pay a deposit or pay in full. Bring enough money so you can buy the motorcycle if it suits you.
- A flashlight: It’s helpful to have extra light to better see into the various recesses of the motorcycle.
- A notebook and writing utensil: You’ll be asking lots of questions and it can be hard to remember all the answers. Bring something to record everything you learn about the used motorcycle.
Inspecting the Used Motorcycle’s Body
Take a thorough look at the motorcycle’s body. Dents and scratches indicate potential previous crashes, which means there could be internal damage as well.
Check the:
- Fuel tank, to ensure the paint coat is free of flakes
- Fenders and side covers, to ensure they don’t have any scratches or dents
- Seat, to ensure it’s free of tears or collapsed from
- Chrome, to ensure it’s free of rust
- Windshield upgrade, to ensure it’s compatible with the motorcycle model and has been installed correctly
Inspecting the Used Motorcycle’s Engine
Always inspect the engine cold. A shady seller could start up the motorcycle before you arrive so that the model goes through its startup issues before you arrive. When you start up the bike, it would appear without any problems. Tell the seller you want to inspect the model cold.
Check the:
- Engine smoke and see that it’s not heavy or odd colored (such as deep black or blue)
- Engine sound for any odd rattles and rumblings
- Exhaust to ensure it’s free of leaks and damage
- Transmission to ensure it doesn’t jump out of gear during your test drive
- Clutch to ensure it doesn’t drag or slip on your test drive
Keep in mind that engine repairs can be quite expensive, so be cautious about buying a used motorcycle with engine problems.
Inspect the Electronics
Electronics are another area that can have costly repairs, so be sure to check that everything is in good working order.
Check the:
- Lights, to ensure the signal, brake lights, and high and low beams work
- Horn, to ensure it’s loud and working
- Battery, to ensure it’s free of startup issues
- Charging system, by running the engine, then hitting the brake (the headlight should get brighter as the charging system engages)
Inspect the Tires
The last step is to look over the tires.
Check the:
- Tires, to make sure they are free of rot and have enough tread left
- Wheels, for any dents or wobbles when you spin the wheel
- Spokes, by hitting each one with a screwdriver handle (it should make a “ping” sound and not a flat sound)
- Chain, to make sure it has enough lubrication and is adjusted correctly
- Belt, to make sure it’s free of issues, such as cuts or abrasions
We hope you found this used motorcycle inspection checklist useful! If you want to shop used motorcycles for sale, check out the selection at BMW Motorcycles of Burbank. Our expert staff is happy to help you find the best model for your budget and lifestyle, so stop by and visit our dealership today. We are located in Burbank, California, and also serve those in Pasadena and Glendale.