Step-to-step guide for buying a used motorcycle - DirectAsia

The best way to buy a used motorbike is to think of it like buying a horse.  Wait, what?? Think about it, if you were buying a horse, you would be making a significant investment. That’s hard-earned cash. As horses cannot speak - except in Disney movies - you would want to make sure that the guy selling you the horse was not ripping you off. The horse dealer might do this by disguising the animal’s age, health or covering up the kind of psychotic behavior that would eventually lead to you and horse parting ways in some dramatic, and quite possibly, painful manner down the road.

“We've all seen this one in an ad before. "Bike was dropped once in a parking lot," or how about this one, "bike needs new battery and minor work." The reason you pay so much less for a used bike than a new one, besides the fact that it has actually been used and is no longer new, is that once you purchase it, there is no turning back. That minor scratch could have been caused by being accidentally tipped over, or it could be from a low side where the owner fixed and buffed the tank, while deciding to sell it instead of fixing the frame damage.” rideapart.com

You get the point. People have been known to lie when selling motorbikes and horses.

Advantages to Buying a Used Motorbike

“Used bikes are cheaper than new bikes. Shocking, right? Part of the draw for buying used is that, not only do you not have to pay for things like setup, delivery, and dealer fees, but the motorcycle will also have been depreciating since the moment it was ridden off the lot.” rideapart.com

Also, a used motorbike can be bought from a person you know. But while buying a known bike may be an option for some, you may need to look further afield. And even if you are buying from someone you know, you should always make sure you are getting a good deal.  And by that we mean a bike that is safe, roadworthy and trouble free.

3 Steps To Success

1. Research

Decide which motorbike models suit you and your budget. Invest some useful time before you buy by comparing strengths and weaknesses. Know the potential faults of each bike.

2. Inspect

Check for damage and weaknesses as well as rust, dents and signs of repair. Look for signs of repainting, or scratches that have been filled in. Take note of the quality of important items like wing mirrors and lights. Check the fuel line, brakes and clutch for smooth function. Check how the engine starts from cold, listen for problems when revving. Inspect the tires and wheels for wear and tear.

3. Interview

Ask from time to study the service records. Find out how many owners the bike has had and if it has been used to race. Here we are, back to horses,

“An owner who loves his bike will talk about it clearly and try and judge whether you will care for his old friend. Always make sure no modifications were done and that the service and maintenance were done by an authorized dealer with genuine parts. Ask pertinent questions to know how the bike has been used and whether the owner takes pride in his bike. Judge whether the owner is being honest about the bikes accident free status and performance.” streetdirectory.com – used motorbike tips

Never buy the first horse, sorry, motorbike you see. Shop around and when you think you’ve found your perfect bike take it for a test ride, in town, out on the open road and on a motorway if possible. Before you sign make doubly sure that there are no unresolved insurance or loan issues. Smart people know that knowledge is power. The little time you invest before you buy helps ensure that you and your used bike can happily ride off into the sunset together. DirectAsia. Here To Help You Buying motorcycle insurance with DirectAsia is as easy as 1,2,3. Choose the plan you want, pay the way you want, you’re insured! Get a quote and find out how you can save or call us at 6665 5555 now.