Used motorcycle buying tips (Vic) ? What to look for ?

Seven8Nine on 03/04/2016 - 17:19
Last edited 03/04/2016 - 17:20

Considering 2nd motorcycle, used under 12k and not that old bike min 2012 with reasonable km's and over 600cc (non lams)

Can anyone share what to watch out for,tips etc?

To save some$$,considering used / demo but not confident so asking for ideas, advice

Automotive

Comments

  • the-mal on 03/04/2016 - 17:56
    +4

    If you're going to spend 10k plus, spend an extra $150-odd and get it mechanically inspected.

    There are so many things to look out for, they differ for each make/model.

    Find the model you want, check for good ones on BikeSales, check it in person and go for a ride (insist on cold start, feel the engine to make sure it is) then if it feels solid, get a mechanical inspection.

    Definitely worth the outlay if you're going to lay down serious cash for the bike.

  • Peace Maker on 03/04/2016 - 18:38
    +1

    What style of bike are you looking at? I've bought and sold a few over the years and only buy new now, but that's only because I am super fussy. Service history is a must and obviously look for any damage. I prefer Japanese bikes for reliability, quality and value.

      • Peace Maker on 03/04/2016 - 20:48
        +2

        They all look like good choices. I'd personally lean towards the MT-09. They are very popular and resale value would stay high. Also look at the MT-09 Tracer which was built as a more touring oriented model. May have a better seat than the main variant. They have a relatively low price from new as well. Not sure about passenger comfort though. Take your pillion with you when looking as he/she will know pretty quick if that want to spend an hour or so on the back! BTW most Indian Scout's were sold new with a solo seat and the pillion seat was an added extra.

        Have fun.

      • [Deactivated] on 03/04/2016 - 22:33
        +1

        Seems like a big variety of bikes there. What type of riding are you doing? Weekend touring or weekend city? I would narrow down by style (cruiser vs sport), then by engine 4 cylinder vs 2 cylinder. There's probably several bikes in each style, once you narrow down by those criteria.

        Budget and displacement are probably secondary after those criteria, if your looking at 2nd hand, since you can opt for an older bike or worse condition.

        I tend to find a mechanical inspection is a waste of money - a qualified mechanic can't tell you whether an engine is going to fail. Google 'used bike checklist' to find a list of things to look for. There's plenty of youtube videos on how to inspect each item on the checklist.

  • Pyro on 03/04/2016 - 20:57
    +1

    Take someone who knows what they're doing, for sure. I bought one second-hand, had no idea, mate took it for a ride, looked it over and did it ok. I later sold that bike and the things people were looking for were oily/leaking forks, the chain, steering alignment, gearbox feel, how it started cold etc.

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