Buying a used motorcycle is a great way to get a quality bike without breaking the bank. There are plenty of well-maintained used motorcycles on the market that run perfectly fine. But there are also some not-so-great pre-owned bikes out there too. That’s why you need to do some research and pay attention to the details before buying a used motorcycle.

At CalMoto, we want to make this process easier for you. That’s why we’ve compiled the following guide to help you choose the best pre-owned model for you. Keep reading to see what needs to be on your inspection checklist. If you have any questions or you want to look at some models for sale, give us a call. We are located in Mountain View, and Livermore, California and are proud to serve San Francisco and San Jose!

What to Bring

There are some essential items you’ll want to bring along to a used motorcycle inspection. Make sure you bring the following:

• Cash: At the bare minimum, you’ll need to pay a deposit. Sometimes, you will have to pay the price in full. Ensure that you have enough cash to cover the price of the bike.
• Flashlight: You should make sure you look in all of the dark nooks and crannies as you inspect the model. A flashlight will improve visibility.
• Screwdriver: This will help you test the spokes.
• Notebook and Pen: You’re going to be asking plenty of questions, and it’s not always easy to remember the answers. It’s a good idea to bring something along to write down all of the important information you need.

The Body

The body of the pre-owned motorcycle needs to be in as good of condition as possible. Dents and scratches can be indications of previous collisions or other problems. If the body looks like it has been through a lot, it may have endured crashes that will lead to maintenance issues down the road.

Go through the following checklist on the pre-owned model’s body:

• Fuel tank: Does it have an untouched paint coat, free of flakes?
• Fenders and side covers: Are there any scratches or dents?
• Seat: Are there any tears or collapsed foam?
• Chrome: Is there any sign of rust?

If there are some potential issues with the body, we caution you to move forward.

The Engine

Tell the seller that you will only inspect the bike cold. If you don’t inspect it cold, the seller could pull a fast one on you. They could start it up before you arrive so that any startup issues happen before you arrive. When you turn it on, it’ll seem perfectly smooth.

When you arrive, run through this checklist:

• Engine smoke: If it’s heavy or odd colored, be concerned.
• Engine sound: Are there any odd rattles or rumbles?
• The exhaust: Make sure there are no damage or leaks.
• Transmission: If it jumps out of gear during your test drive, walk away.
• Clutch: If it drags or slips during your test drive, say no.

Any engine problems can lead to costly repairs. If something feels off, listen to your gut! You may be saving yourself expensive repairs down the road.

Electronics

Electrical repairs on a used motorcycle tend to be on the expensive side. Make sure to inspect the different electrical systems.

• Lights: Test the signal and brake lights, the high and low beams, and make sure the indicator and instrument lights work
• Horn: Ensure that it’s loud.
• Battery: Does it start without any issues?
• Charging system: Run the engine and hit the brake. This should make the headlight brighter and the charging system engage.

Tires

Tires are obviously an important part of how well you can ride any motorcycle. Make sure to go through the following inspection checklist:

• Tires: They should be free of dry rot and have plenty of tread.
• Wheels: Make sure there aren’t any dents and check for any wobble when you spin the wheel.
• Spokes: Hit each with a screwdriver handle. You should hear a “ping” sound and not a flat sound.
• Chain: It should be properly lubricated.
• Belt: Check for cuts or abrasions.

Ready to put your inspection checklist to use? Check out the great selection of used motorcycles at CalMoto. You can reach us at our locations in Mountain View, and Livermore, California. We are also happy to serve those in San Francisco and San Jose. When you’re looking to buy a bike, we’ve got you covered!