by Sheila Mchugh

Created on: May 01, 2009   Last Updated: May 02, 2009

So you've decided to buy a motorcycle and would just love to crack the throttle on that brand new two-wheeler at the local dealer down the street. Credit's not so good though and extra cash is just a little tight right now. Or maybe this is your first bike and you're not ready to fully commit until you've tried out a few first. A bit like the dating game, but much more serious, this motorcycle buying business. The answer: a search for the perfect used motorcycle.

Now the question: What do you look for in a used motorcycle? Initial considerations are not that dissimilar to what you'd look for in a car, namely year, make and model and as low mileage as you can find for what you can afford. All that, including mileage indications can be found via internet website searches such as cycletrader.com.

That, however, is where the similarities between a four-wheel vehicle and a two-wheeler end. Your decision on make and model will naturally decide whether you will be looking at a chain or shaft driven vehicle. If chain driven, check to see if it's well greased and not slack.

You can ask if the bikes ever been laid down, but better to do your own research looking closely for any tell-tale signs such as scrapes, marks or pitting first on the mirrors, then front brake and clutch levers, pipes and any area on either side of the bike that might have made contact with the ground.

Next, if the bike has a center stand or you've brought a friend to sit on it and bring it upright, take a look at it from the front. Does everything appear in alignment? Do the forks give when someone sits on it, but not too much? While the bike's still cool, check out the pipes for rust, running your hand underneath, even going so far as to bring that small mirror you've brought with you for just such a purpose. Check the tires for uneven wear.

Next, check the oil. Most bikes, unlike most cars, do not have a dip stick for this purpose. Instead the oil, while cold, must be viewed through a very small window. It should be clear and half way up the window.

Alright. You've been patient and waited long enough. NOW you can turn the key and let her rip, but you can't ride not yet anyway. Listen closely to the timing. Is it missing? Hear any backfiring? While the bike's idling, test the turn signals, brake lights and brights. Once you're satisfied everything is in working order, take the bike out for a spin, with the owner's permission, of course.

Run the bike through the gears being sure to down shift listening for any possible compression problems indicated by backfiring. Don't forget to brake, using rear only first and then go all in hard!

If everything checks out to your satisfaction and the price is right - congratulations! You've just bought a used motorcycle

Learn more about this author, Sheila Mchugh.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.