what to consider when buying a used motorcycle

The key to successfully buying a used motorcycle is two fold: first you need to ask yourself a series of questions. Then, when it’s time to look at bikes, you need to check a few important things to ensure you’re getting a great deal on a good-running, reliable bike that's worth what they're asking for it.

For many people, purchasing a used motorcycle is a better option, financially speaking, than buying new. Before you set out to buy the bike of your dreams, you should ask yourself a few key questions. Your answers will help you find the right motorcycle to fit your budget and match the type of riding you plan on doing.

What is my experience as a motorcycle operator?

There’s no question that riding a motorcycle is great fun. However, it can be dangerous and even deadly if done the wrong way. Therefore, before even thinking of buying a bike of any type, you need to be honest with yourself regarding your skills and abilities. If you are a complete “green horn”, you need to take riding lessons. The MSF Basic course is an excellent school. If you’ve ridden before but it’s been quite some time since you’ve driven a motorcycle, now is the perfect time to brush up on your skills.

What kind of riding am I most interested in?

currently on hand at Tracy Motorsports
2011 Honda CBR600RR, 5342 miles
super clean, ready to ride
$8999 as of 11/28/2014
stock # U00058
price subject to change
bike subject to prior sale
price plus tax and fees

The type of riding that appeals to you will dictate the type of bike you should buy. If you plan on taking leisure trips around town or using your motorcycle to get to and from work, then you need to look at street bikes as opposed to sport bikes. Touring bikes and cruisers are popular among the older crowd who appreciates taking in the scenery on America’s back roads and highways. If you have a need for speed and are experienced in riding off-road, a motocross bike is might be a great fit for you.

How much money can I realistically spend?

Depending upon what type and size of motorcycle you are interested in buying, you can expect to pay anywhere from a couple thousand to several thousand dollars on a good quality used motorcycle.

Is this motorcycle right for me?

When you find a used motorcycle for sale that fits your budget and matches the type of riding you wish to do, it’s essential that you make sure the bike is the right one for you. If you are unable to put both feet flat on the ground when the bike is upright, that motorcycle is too tall for you. If you find a bike that you are interested in but aren’t used to its power, find a similar bike that’s not so powerful. Remember that you can always move on to a more powerful bike after you get used to the one you buy.

Inspection Time: What to Look For

When looking over a used motorcycle, do a quick inspection for rust, scratches, dents and dings and things like faded or oxidized paint. These are signs that a motorcycle was probably not well cared for and that the bike was treated rather roughly. Ask to see the maintenance and service records and receipts.

The typical motorcycle is driven approximately 3,000 to 5,000 miles per year so check the odometer and do the math. If the odometer reading is high in relation to the age of the bike, find a similar bike with fewer miles. Be sure there are no fluid leaks and that the chain is clean and tight. Examine the tires for signs of wear and abuse. If the motorcycle doesn’t start up easily, that’s an indication the bike has problems – and that goes double if there’s blue smoke coming from the tailpipe.

Once you have purchased your “new” used motorcycle, keep Tracy Motorsports in mind – our mission is to help you enjoy your ride! We can ship motorcycle parts to wherever you may need them, and accept online and phone orders as well. 

And if you're having trouble finding just the right bike for you, take a look at the pre-owned inventory on our website, or give us a call. Our used bikes sometimes rotate thru very quickly, so we can call you if we get a bike you might be interested in.