Top-10 bike-buying tips

By Réhann Coetzee

Buying a motorcycle is a very exciting event, but it can also cause grief. Here are 10 tips to make your buying experience safer.

1. Choose the right type of bike.

What type of riding are you going to be doing? If you are just looking for a cheaper way to get to work and back, you won’t be looking at a superbike or big cruiser, but rather something smaller – maybe even a scooter. There is nothing worse than commuting on an uncomfortable bike, or touring with something too small. Make sure you know exactly what you want to do with your bike and then choose one that your requirements the best.

2. Rather buy from a reputable dealership

It is generally believed that it is cheaper to buy privately than through a dealership. That may be true to a certain extent, but we believe the benefits to the buyer who buys from a dealership far outweigh any possible lower purchase price. Remember that it is also easier to obtain financing if you buy through a dealer.

Also, you will have protection from the Consumer Protection Act if you buy through a dealer. The dealer has to disclose any accidents the bike had been in as well as the repairs done after the accident.

A dealer will not sell you a bike that still has financing owed on it, which also makes it safer for you. Chances of the bike having a service history are also greater when buying from a dealer. Dealers also offer warranties with their bikes and even service plans.

Research the dealer. See if there are any complaints or compliments online. Google is your friend!

3. Service history?

It is always safer to buy with a service history. It is good to know the bike you’re interested in has been well looked after and a service history is an easy way to prove that. A service history from authorised dealers is the best, although there are many reputable workshops around.

4. Inspection: Controls

Nothing is better than a proper inspection of the bike you want to buy. If you don’t have enough technical knowledge or experience of motorcycles, ask a knowledgeable friend to do it for you.

Sit on the bike and check the action on the clutch and brake levers, the throttle and the brake pedal. Do they feel sticky or too hard to operate? This could mean wear in the mechanism and might cause a breakdown and leave you stranded on the side of the road in the near future.

5. Inspection: Chain, sprockets, suspension and steering

Check the condition of the chain and the two sprockets. Is the chain dry? Test to see if it has stretched too much. Are the sprockets worn? They have to be changed every 10-20 000km, but make sure it won’t be within your first month of ownership.

Sit on the bike and bounce it to check the action from the suspension and shock absorbers. The suspension should bounce you back smoothly without any harsh movement.

6. Inspection: Lights, instruments and accident damage

Check that all of the lights and indicators work. Look out for cracks or scratches on the lenses – also on the windscreen if the bike has one. Make sure that all of the instruments properly, especially the fuel gauge (if fitted).

Look for obvious accident damage to the body panels, the bike’s frame, wheels and forks. The exhaust will also show scrapes and dents if the bike had fallen at some stage and wasn’t properly fixed. Ask the seller for a statement about accident damage.

7. Inspection: Wheels and tyres

Motorcycle tyres cost more than you think, so don’t buy a bike with tyres that are almost worn. Make sure the rubber hasn’t started cracking yet.

Looks for dents in the wheels that could indicate rough treatment or even an accident. This could also cause uneven tyre wear.

If the wheels have spokes, make sure none are broken. Tap each one with a pen or screwdriver; it should make a ping sound while a loose spoke will make a flatter sound.

8. Inspection: Engine and battery

Is the battery dirty? Does it start the bike easily? Check the levels of the radiator coolant, brake fluid and engine oil. Also check the condition of fuel tank’s filler for signs of rust, dirt or even overspray. Check for oil leaks around the filler, filter and drain plug. The same goes for radiator coolant and brake fluid. Brake fluid that leaks not only means braking ability has been compromised, it also damage paintwork.

9. Inspection: Test ride

If you are happy with the inspections above, take the bike for a test ride. Be careful while the engine and gearbox oil is still cold. Get a feel for the brakes, clutch and throttle actions. How does the gearbox feel once the oil is warmed up? Do the gears change smoothly – up and down?

Are there any strange vibrations? How does the steering feel around corners or when manoeuvring? It should be smooth and not notchy when turning the steering.

Check again for any leaks after your test ride. Also check the oil and coolant levels.

10. Research bike values

A website such as Auto Trader is a very valuable research tool. Look at other advertisements for the same bike of similar age to get an indication of the bike’s market value. Make sure you are paying a market-related price for your bike.