For new riders, buying that first bike can feel like being initiated into an exclusive club. It’s very exciting. However, it’s important that first-time motorcycle buyers exercise care instead of making impulsive decisions because there are a lot of factors that go into determining whether a bike will meet their needs. Read on to find a checklist of everything riders need to check to wind up with the right bike.
1. The Cost
Setting a budget in advance will make it easier for anyone looking for a Harley Davidson to narrow down options and make sure they don’t break the bank at the same time. When setting a budget, keep in mind that new motorcycles can be very expensive. Buying used can be a good option for keeping costs low as long as riders buy from a trusted dealer.
2. The Paperwork
If all of a motorcycle’s paperwork is not in order, that’s a serious red flag. It means riders need to look elsewhere for a bike because there’s likely a reason the seller is holding back information. Even if the VIN on the chassis matches what’s on the title, and the title is clean, there are still some questions buyers will need to ask and some documents they’ll want to see.
Ideally, the seller will have kept a logbook of service and repairs. This is especially important if the motorcycle has high mileage. Buyers can perform their due diligence by checking the manual for maintenance requirements, then checking that against the log book provided by the seller. Make sure everything lines up and keep an eye out for expensive upcoming maintenance requirements.
3. The Condition of the Bike
Modern motorcycles have many moving parts, each of which is absolutely essential to its function. While there’s no way for a buyer to check every component of a used bike, there are some things even a new rider can look for. Essential parts of the bike to inspect include:
- The overall appearance of the bike.
- The chain and sprocket condition.
- The exhaust system.
- The frame and suspension.
- The clutch and the brakes.
- The tires and the wheels.
- The fuel tank.
- The electrical system.
- The engine.
Basically, look for signs of unaddressed excess wear anywhere on the bike, check for fluid leaks, and make sure any aftermarket parts are accounted for. It can help to bring an actual, physical checklist of essential parts and systems so that nothing gets overlooked.
4. The Way It Rides
There are some things riders can only check during a test ride. The most important things are that the clutch doesn’t slip, the brake discs aren’t warped, and the steering is true. Of course, how the motorcycle rides is also important. It’s just more subjective, so buyers will have to decide for themselves how they feel about the bike’s weight, seat height, and other essentials.
When and Why to Use a Checklist
Two final notes about using checklists. The first is that things like bike condition and paperwork are all but guaranteed to be in order when riders buy from dealerships, so it’s much more of a concern when buying from a private seller. The second is that when purchasing a bike from a private seller, it’s perfectly fine for the buyer to create a personalized checklist that contains anything and everything they want to remember. It not only makes it impossible to forget key checks but also offers a solid baseline for negotiations and makes the buyer look more serious.
