{"id":13548,"date":"2024-12-19T07:57:48","date_gmt":"2024-12-19T07:57:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/?p=13548"},"modified":"2025-08-12T09:47:16","modified_gmt":"2025-08-12T09:47:16","slug":"choose-a-used-motorcycle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/","title":{"rendered":"How to choose a used motorcycle? 14 Steps Must Do"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Buying a used motorcycle is often more affordable than a new one. It also allows you to find some models which might no longer be in production. So it is really a wise decision to buy a used one.<\/p>\n<p>However, there are some things you should pay attention to, if you do not want to cost more to repair the motorcycle than it\u2019s worth. In this process, careful consideration is required. With this detailed checklist, everyone can choose a used motorcycle they want.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_79_2 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69db1bf7849f0\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-69db1bf7849f0\"  aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#1_Define_Your_Purpose_and_Budget\" >1. Define Your Purpose and Budget<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#2_Research_the_Make_and_Model\" >2. Research the Make and Model<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#3_Ask_for_the_Motorcycles_History\" >3. Ask for the Motorcycle\u2019s History<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#4_Inspect_the_Exterior_Condition\" >4. Inspect the Exterior Condition<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#5_Check_the_Tires_and_Wheels\" >5. Check the Tires and Wheels<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#6_Inspect_the_Chain_and_Sprockets\" >6. Inspect the Chain and Sprockets<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#7_Test_the_Brakes\" >7. Test the Brakes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#How_Often_Should_Change_Motorcycle_Brakes_2023\" >How Often Should Change Motorcycle Brakes 2023<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#8_Examine_the_Suspension\" >8. Examine the Suspension<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#9_Inspect_the_Engine\" >9. Inspect the Engine<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#10_Test_the_Electrical_System\" >10. Test the Electrical System<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#11_Have_a_Test_Ride\" >11. Have a Test Ride<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#12_Verify_the_Documents\" >12. Verify the Documents<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#13_Negotiate_the_Price\" >13. Negotiate the Price<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#14_Plan_for_Immediate_Maintenance\" >14. Plan for Immediate Maintenance<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/#Conclusion\" >Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_Define_Your_Purpose_and_Budget\"><\/span>1. Define Your Purpose and Budget<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The first thing you should do is to define your purpose. You should make the use of the motorcycle clear. It may include daily commutes, long road trips, off-road adventures, and occasional weekend rides. It depends on which type of motorcycle you need.<\/p>\n<p>Next, you should set a realistic budget. You should not only account for the purchase price but also for costs like insurance, registration fees, maintenance, and gear.<\/p>\n<p>To narrow down your options and prevent overspending\uff0c you should decide how much you\u2019re willing to spend and stick to it<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_Research_the_Make_and_Model\"><\/span>2. Research the Make and Model<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_13567\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13567\" class=\"wp-image-13567 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/research-the-motorcycle-make-and-mode-500x327.png\" alt=\"research the motorcycle make and mode\" width=\"500\" height=\"327\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/research-the-motorcycle-make-and-mode-500x327.png 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/research-the-motorcycle-make-and-mode-350x229.png 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/research-the-motorcycle-make-and-mode.png 645w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13567\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">research the motorcycle mode before choosing a used motorcycle<\/p><\/div>\n<p>All motorcycles are created differently. Some motorcycles are known for their reliability, while others may have specific issues. Research the make and model you\u2019re interested in is necessary. You can look for reviews, forums, and owner experiences to identify common problems or quirks.<\/p>\n<p>Then you can check the availability of spare parts for older or less common models. If parts are hard to find or expensive, you may face issues down the line. Also, consider the bike\u2019s resale value; some brands and models hold their value better than others.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><a class=\"fasc-button fasc-size-medium fasc-type-glossy fasc-rounded-medium\" style=\"background-color: #33809e; color: #ffffff;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/best-motorcycle-brands\/\">TOP 10 Best Motorcycle Brands In The World<\/a><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_Ask_for_the_Motorcycles_History\"><\/span>3. Ask for the Motorcycle\u2019s History<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Ask the seller about the history before you examine the motorcycle.<\/p>\n<p>The most important questions to ask are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tracking of Ownership: How many owners does the bike have? A single-owner bike has a higher maintenance cost.<\/li>\n<li>Accident History: Has the motorcycle ever had an accident? If yes, ask for details.<\/li>\n<li>Service History: Maintenance is an integral part of keeping a motorcycle functioning at peak performance. Seek receipts or a service history logbook.<\/li>\n<li>Reason to Sell: This can help you get a sense of what the bike is doing. When the vendor is hesitant or vague, tread carefully.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_Inspect_the_Exterior_Condition\"><\/span>4. Inspect the Exterior Condition<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You should start by inspecting the motorcycle\u2019s overall appearance. Look for signs of wear and tear as it may indicate how well it has been cared for.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13568\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13568\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13568\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/inspect-the-motorcycles-exterior-condition-500x377.jpg\" alt=\"inspect the motorcycles exterior condition\" width=\"500\" height=\"377\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/inspect-the-motorcycles-exterior-condition-500x377.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/inspect-the-motorcycles-exterior-condition-350x264.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/inspect-the-motorcycles-exterior-condition-768x579.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/inspect-the-motorcycles-exterior-condition.jpg 789w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13568\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">inspect the motorcycle exterior condition<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Here\u2019s what to check:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Paint and Bodywork: Look for scratches, dents, or mismatched paint. All of these may indicate repairs after an accident.<\/li>\n<li>Rust: Inspect the frame, exhaust, and other metal parts. You should check to escape rust and corrosion.<\/li>\n<li>Leaking Fluids: It is also important to check under the motorcycle for oil, coolant, or brake fluid leaks.<\/li>\n<li>Welds and Modifications: Look for any irregular welds or poorly done modifications to escape damage or improper maintenance.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_Check_the_Tires_and_Wheels\"><\/span>5. Check the Tires and Wheels<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You can learn a lot through the condition of the tires and wheels.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13565\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13565\" class=\"wp-image-13565 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-the-motorcycle-tire-500x308.jpg\" alt=\"check the motorcycle tire\" width=\"500\" height=\"308\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-the-motorcycle-tire-500x308.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-the-motorcycle-tire-1024x630.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-the-motorcycle-tire-350x215.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-the-motorcycle-tire-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-the-motorcycle-tire.jpg 1058w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13565\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">check the motorcycle tire<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Carefully inspect:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tire Wear: Make sure the even wear to escape the issues with alignment or suspension. However, you should also check the tread depth to ensure the tires aren\u2019t too worn out.<\/li>\n<li>Tire Age: Even if the tread looks fine, old tires can become hard and brittle. Check the <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/DotCode\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">DOT code<\/a> on the sidewall to find the manufacturing date; tires older than five years may need replacing.<\/li>\n<li>Wheels: Look for cracks, dents, or damage to the rims. Spin the wheels to ensure they rotate smoothly and don\u2019t <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-death-wobble-and-how-to-prevent\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">wobble<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_Inspect_the_Chain_and_Sprockets\"><\/span>6. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-to-tighten-motorcycle-chain\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Inspect the Chain and Sprockets<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_13566\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13566\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-13566\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-chain-500x314.jpg\" alt=\"motorcycle chain\" width=\"500\" height=\"314\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-chain-500x314.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-chain-350x220.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-chain.jpg 564w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13566\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">check the motorcycle chain is necessary to choose a used motorcycle<\/p><\/div>\n<p>To avoid costly repairs, check the chain and sprockets carefully as they are critical for the bike\u2019s performance.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Chain Condition: A dry or rusty chain may indicate neglect. The chain should be well-lubricated and free of rust.<\/li>\n<li>Tension: Make sure the chain's tension is in good condition. Too tight or too loose can all cause problems.<\/li>\n<li>Sprockets: Inspect the teeth of the front and rear sprockets to check if they are evenly shaped and not excessively worn down.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_Test_the_Brakes\"><\/span>7. Test the Brakes<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>For any motorcycle, brakes are one of the most important features of safety.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13559\" style=\"width: 610px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13559\" class=\"wp-image-13559\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/test-the-motorcycle-brake-500x364.jpg\" alt=\"test the motorcycle brake\" width=\"600\" height=\"437\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/test-the-motorcycle-brake-500x364.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/test-the-motorcycle-brake-350x255.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/test-the-motorcycle-brake.jpg 639w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13559\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">test the motorcycle brake is important for safety<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Ensure they\u2019re in good working condition is necessary:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Brake Pads: Check the thickness of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/what-are-the-best-brake-pads-cheap-vs-expensive\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">brake pads<\/a>. Too thin means they need immediate replacement.<\/li>\n<li>Rotors: Look for grooves or warping on the brake rotors to check if there is excessive wear.<\/li>\n<li>Levers and Feel: Test the brake levers for smooth operation. They should feel good instead of spongy or overly stiff.<\/li>\n<li>Brake Fluid: Inspect the fluid reservoir to make sure the fluid is clear and at the correct level.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Often_Should_Change_Motorcycle_Brakes_2023\"><\/span><a class=\"fasc-button fasc-size-medium fasc-type-glossy fasc-rounded-medium\" style=\"background-color: #33809e; color: #ffffff;\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-often-should-change-motorcycle-brakes\/\">How Often Should Change Motorcycle Brakes 2023<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_Examine_the_Suspension\"><\/span>8. Examine the Suspension<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A motorcycle\u2019s suspension is important to its handling, comfort, and safety.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what to look for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/a-guide-to-fix-twisted-motorcycle-forks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Front Forks<\/a>: Check if there are oil leaks around the fork seals. You can push down on the handlebars to test the suspension. If it compresses smoothly and returns to its original position without bouncing, it means the suspension has no problem<\/li>\n<li>Rear Shock: Inspect the rear suspension for leaks or damage. Sit on the bike to see if it supports your weight properly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div id=\"attachment_13563\" style=\"width: 465px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13563\" class=\"wp-image-13563 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-motorcycles-suspension.jpg\" alt=\"check motorcycle\u2019s suspension\" width=\"455\" height=\"317\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-motorcycles-suspension.jpg 455w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/check-motorcycles-suspension-350x244.jpg 350w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 455px) 100vw, 455px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13563\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">check the motorcycle\u2019s suspension carefully for safe<\/p><\/div>\n<p><em>Note: Make sure the suspension components are properly aligned and not bent or out of place.<\/em><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_Inspect_the_Engine\"><\/span>9. Inspect the Engine<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The engine is the heart of the motorcycle. To save you from costly repairs, have a thorough inspection.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what to do:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Oil Condition: Check the oil level and color. Clean oil is a good sign, and it is better than dark or dirty oil.<\/li>\n<li>Leaks: Check if there are oil leaks around the engine.<\/li>\n<li>Exhaust Smoke: You'd better try to start the bike to observe the exhaust. Excessive white, blue, or black smoke can indicate engine problems.<\/li>\n<li>Sound: You should listen if there are unusual noises like knocking, tapping, whining, and so on. These noises could signal internal issues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"su-box su-box-style-glass\" id=\"\" style=\"border-color:#0000b1;border-radius:5px;\"><div class=\"su-box-title\" style=\"background-color:#0913e4;color:#FFFFFF;border-top-left-radius:3px;border-top-right-radius:3px\">Related Reading<\/div><div class=\"su-box-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"border-bottom-left-radius:3px;border-bottom-right-radius:3px\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/single-cylinder-motorcycle-engines\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">An In-Depth Look at the Single Cylinder Motorcycle Engines<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-engine-size\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">What Is Best Motorcycle Engine Size To Start (Full List Size Include)<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/main-types-of-motorcycle-engines\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">8 Main Different Types of Motorcycle Engines<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_Test_the_Electrical_System\"><\/span>10. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/how-to-test-your-motorcycle-charging-system\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Test the Electrical System<\/a><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The electrical system controls key functions of the motorcycle.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13555\" style=\"width: 810px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13555\" class=\"wp-image-13555\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-electrical-system-500x402.jpg\" alt=\"motorcycle electrical system\" width=\"800\" height=\"643\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-electrical-system-500x402.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-electrical-system-1024x823.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-electrical-system-350x281.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-electrical-system-768x617.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/motorcycle-electrical-system.jpg 1420w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13555\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">test the electrical system before buying a used motorcycle<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Test the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Battery: Ensure the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/electric-motorcycle-battery-fire-prevention\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">battery<\/a> is in good condition and holds a charge. Look for corrosion on the terminals.<\/li>\n<li>Lights: Check the headlight, taillight, brake light, and turn signals for proper operation.<\/li>\n<li>Horn: Test the horn to ensure it works.<\/li>\n<li>Starter: Start the bike multiple times to ensure the starter motor works reliably.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_Have_a_Test_Ride\"><\/span>11. Have a Test Ride<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A test ride is essential to evaluate the motorcycle\u2019s performance.<\/p>\n<p>During the ride, you also have something to pay attention to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Engine Performance: You need to ensure that the engine starts easily and runs smoothly. Sufficient power in all gears is also necessary.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/different-types-of-motorcycle-clutches\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Clutch<\/a> and Gears: You should make sure the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-clutch-care-maintenance-tips\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">clutch<\/a> is for smooth engagement and the gears are for seamless shifting.<\/li>\n<li>Braking: Ensuring the brakes respond quickly and effectively is important.<\/li>\n<li>Handling: Check for unusual vibrations, wobbling, and difficulty in steering is necessary.<\/li>\n<li>Comfort: Make sure the motorcycle feels comfortable and suits your riding style.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_Verify_the_Documents\"><\/span>12. Verify the Documents<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Before finalizing the purchase, please ensure all paperwork is in order.<\/p>\n<p>Check the key documents:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Title: Never buy motorcycles with salvage titles. To avoid extra maintenance, you'd better verify that the seller has a clean title in their name<\/li>\n<li>Registration: Make sure that the motorcycle is currently registered. And there are no fees or fines.<\/li>\n<li>VIN: Cross-check the vehicle identification number (VIN) on the title and the bike itself to ensure they match.<\/li>\n<li>Bill of Sale: Get a detailed bill of sale. It includes the seller\u2019s and buyer\u2019s information, the date, and the purchase price.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_Negotiate_the_Price\"><\/span>13. Negotiate the Price<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Remember, once you\u2019ve completed your inspection, any issues you\u2019ve found are your leverage to negotiate for a more fair price. The attitude should be polite but firm. If you think the price is too high and the seller is unwilling to budge. Don\u2019t hesitate to walk away. There are plenty of other motorcycles available.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_13561\" style=\"width: 510px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-13561\" class=\"wp-image-13561 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/negotiate-the-motorcycle-price-1-500x447.jpg\" alt=\"negotiate the price is important to choose a used motorcycle\" width=\"500\" height=\"447\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/negotiate-the-motorcycle-price-1-500x447.jpg 500w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/negotiate-the-motorcycle-price-1-1024x915.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/negotiate-the-motorcycle-price-1-350x313.jpg 350w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/negotiate-the-motorcycle-price-1-768x686.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/negotiate-the-motorcycle-price-1.jpg 1160w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 500px) 100vw, 500px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-13561\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">negotiate the price is also important for you to choose a used motorcycle<\/p><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_Plan_for_Immediate_Maintenance\"><\/span>14. Plan for Immediate Maintenance<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After purchasing the motorcycle, plan for some immediate maintenance tasks.<\/p>\n<p>These might include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Replacing the oil and filters.<\/li>\n<li>Checking and adjusting the chain.<\/li>\n<li>Replacing brake pads or worn tires.<\/li>\n<li>Inspecting the battery. If necessary, please replace it<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span>Conclusion<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>It can be a rewarding experience to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/choose-a-used-motorcycle\/\">buy a used motorcycle<\/a>. To avoid some unnecessary costs, you should be patient and pay attention to detail.<\/p>\n<p>I believe this detailed checklist can help you avoid potential pitfalls and find a used motorcycle that is reliable, safe, and enjoyable to ride.<\/p>\n<p>Always trust your instincts\u2014if something feels off about the bike or the seller, it\u2019s best to look elsewhere.<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-box su-box-style-glass\" id=\"\" style=\"border-color:#0000b1;border-radius:5px;\"><div class=\"su-box-title\" style=\"background-color:#0913e4;color:#FFFFFF;border-top-left-radius:3px;border-top-right-radius:3px\">Related Reading<\/div><div class=\"su-box-content su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" style=\"border-bottom-left-radius:3px;border-bottom-right-radius:3px\">\n<a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-pre-ride-checklist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Motorcycle Pre-ride Checklist: 7 Important Checks You Need To Do!<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/motorcycle-inspection-checklist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Motorcycle Inspection Checklist, Ride safely 2023<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/best-time-to-buy-a-motorcycle\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">When Is The Best Time To Buy A Motorcycle?<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/ultimate-guide-to-buy-a-used-utv\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Buy a Used UTV: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Buyers<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Buying a used motorcycle is often more affordable than a new one. It also allows you to find some models which might no longer be in production. So it is really a wise decision to buy a used one. However, there are some things you should pay attention to, if you do not want to [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":13577,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[94,32,95],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13548","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-education","category-motorcycle","category-troubleshoot"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13548","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13548"}],"version-history":[{"count":25,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13548\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":16783,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13548\/revisions\/16783"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/13577"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13548"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13548"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.fodsports.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13548"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}