Motorcycle Buying Guide
How to get the Best Motorcycle!

General Motorcycle Inspection First!

A general motorcycle inspection is an essential part of buying a motorcycle. Buying a motorcycle is a costly affair and you want to avoid buying a piece of junk motorcycle. You want to make sure you do it right - the first time. So before you decided to go check out a motorcycle, give my useful motorcycle inspection list(s) a look.

When arriving at the sellers place - check it out.
It often says a lot about the person. When you meet introduce yourself and be friendly you want the person to like you since it will improve the negotiation later on. A great way to get into conversation is to ask the phone questions again. You know what the answers should be so double check if you still are getting them (be aware of different answers). When talking make sure not to be too enthusiastic about any aspects of the motorcycle. You don't care about sound, pipes, extras! You might think it's great but right now you don't show that (it will save you money)!

Ask to see the documentation of the motorcycle.
Before you actually start doing the motorcycle inspection, spread the papers out over the table - check the history of maintenance, big repairs, etc. Ask the seller to explain them. Then check plate numbers, license numbers, odometers (with repair receipts).

Review the motorcycles general wear and tear.
Tires, footpegs, seat, grips, knobs, buttons, handles, hinges. You want to match the distance on the motorcycle with the condition it is in. If it doesn't figure ask why. When I sell a motorcycle it needs to be bright and shining. So I always wonder why a dirty motorcycle is being sold, Why doesn't the seller take time to clean it up? You should also wonder why. Do any parts look brand new, wonder why?

Give a quick motorcycle inspection. (kinda from a distance)
Focus on some difficult access points. Try to see if it's clean, not rusty, no damage etc.

Continue... only with a Good Motorcycle!
Based on your experiences so far decide if its worth continuing or if you should leave the motorcycle. Too old, too much wear, dirty, no documents, many repairs, bad maintenance, vague answers, not honest answers are all signs to not buy the motorcycle.

If you decide to go on with the motorcycle inspection have them put on a pot of coffee (just kidding). Here is Motorcycle Buying Guide Part 2 - Detailed Motorcycle Inspection. Work your way around the motorcycle in a systematic way.

What to bring to motorcycle inspection: Light, pair of pliers, screw driver, pen & paper!

The date of manufacture is usually stamped on the frame or close to the steering head. Use it to check the details of the motorcycle and registration papers.

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