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Not everyone can purchase a new bike the first time out. Many riders need to consider purchasing a used bike to stay within a budget. For many, having a used bike to enjoy riding is a lot better than not having a bike at all. The important thing is to end up with the bike of your dreams at an affordable price and in good condition. No one wants to be taken advantage of or end up paying for a bike that does not run right.
Checking Important Factors On Used Bikes
Asking about your bike’s mileage is a good place to start when checking out used bikes. But, what is the acceptable mileage for a good used bike? And what are other factors to check on?
How Important is Mileage?
Mileage is an important factor. But, there are high-mileage bikes that are still a good deal. It all depends on how well maintained the bike was and what condition it is in. The mileage is important in determining a bike’s resale value. When a bike has over 40,000 miles on it, it is considered high mileage. Then, sports bikes are considered high-mileage with over 25,000 miles because they are generally driven more aggressively.
The kind of bike makes a difference in mileage, with water-cooled engines lasting longer. Sports bikes have shorter lifespans than cruisers, choppers, or touring bikes.
Was This Bike Well-maintained?
When looking at any used motorcycle, ask to see service records. Find out how it was stored and how often it was ridden. Where was it ridden and under what conditions? How old was the previous owner? This is important because young owners might have driven more recklessly and skipped maintenance tasks while older owners tend to take better care of their bikes.
Try to have a professional mechanic look over any bike being considered for purchase since they can tell how well it has been maintained.
Is this Bike in Good Condition?
A professional mechanic can look at the bike you are considering and, with a few simple tests and a thorough inspection, can tell you what condition the bike is in and if the price being asked is a fair one.
Look at the bike and check it out for visible damage, like dents and scrapes, or other damage and signs of wear and tear.
What Type of Motorcycle is it?
Is the motorcycle a sports bike, a cruiser, a touring bike, or another type of bike? This will have bearing on its lifespan. Then, determine the specific model, make, and year. This will make it possible to check the make and model out with online reviews. Bikes meant for beginning riders do not have as long a lifespan as models designed for more experienced riders.
When all factors are considered, the condition of the bike and how well it has been maintained are as important as mileage. A well-maintained bike with high mileage can be a better deal than a poorly maintained low-mileage bike. The previous owner’s riding and maintenance habits make a big difference in how long a motorcycle will last. It is always a good idea to have a bike considered for purchase inspected by a professional mechanic. An experienced mechanic can spot problems a typical buyer would miss. Following these guidelines can help get a good deal on a used bike and avoid mistakes.
