Comments on: Buying a Motorcycle, Part 2: The Buying Process

By: Tony TLTtowingNYC

Tony TLTtowingNYC — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 03:08:36 +0000

First of all there are several factors when purchasing a used bike. Alot of people tend to relate buying a bike as to buying an Automobile. They are totally different. When buying a car u have a large body to look at to show imperfections in the fit & finish. Damage will be much more apparent to the naked eye on a car than on a bike. Look at the bike very carefully, look at the frame from the neck area. If there is rust, paint flaking, crooked vin #’s watch out. Most bike accidents happen in the frontal area and if the neck show’s any signs of damage more than likely something ups. Bent frame will result in a dangerous bike that will not track straight and will not turn correctly. Next, start the bike. Many bikes I’ve noticed sit for a long time with no use. If there is an abrupt, choppy idle or does not want to start at all. This may be signs of old fuel that has damaged the needles, jets and floats in the carburators/fuel system. This can lead up to costly and annoying repairs. Check the fuel tank inside and look for rust on the inner walls of it, another sign the bike was not properly stored. Depeneding on the level of the rust the tank it may need to be replaced. A crapped out tank can lead to small rust particles going into the carbs resulting in costly/tedious repairs. Even if the tank looks perfect from the outside, bring a flashlight and check inside. Next check the wheels for straightness, bent lips on a rim mean abuse and a bike that will ride like crap. Keep in mind spoke rims have inner tubes so if you get a flat you are stuck. Check spokes for excessive rust. I prefer solid one piece wheels, you can carry a plug kit and 9 out of 10 times it can be fixed on the side of the road and get you home. Check wiring for frayed/damaged wires. These are signs of a previous accidents or poor wiring when someone installed aftermarket lighting/horns. Check the brake fluid color(must be clear not black), brake pad thickness, drive chain/shaft. Remember, three most important things on a bike when riding, 1: TIRES 2: BRAKES 3: CHAIN. If any of these fail while riding it could lead to catostrophic disaster. Last but not least use your wisdom. Gauge the seller, look him/her up and down and try to get & feel the vibe he/she is giving off. Personalitly and location of seller’s area all play a factor on your final decission for purchase.
Take your time, try to go during the day when the sunlight will give you better lighting to check the whole bike front to back properly. Remember, you will be riding this thing on the road surrounded by a million other factors that are incredibly challenging. You want to have a safe & reliable motorcycle underneath to make riding as safe + enjoyable as possible.
Hope all this advice will help you have a postive aspect on any future motorcycle/scooter purchases you may be on intending doing.

By: citybiker

citybiker — Wed, 16 May 2007 14:31:40 +0000

Thanks Wells! You’re probably right, but I’ve registered two motorcycles (what can I say?) in the past year at the Herald Square DMV – and at that one (and also one in Rockland county, and another in LI – with a friend) they only cared about the “card ” – but it would be smart to bring everything just in case!

I don’t work for Progressive, but I found them to be quick and easy (with low rates compared to Geico) – they can email you a pdf of your insurance cards (so you can print out as many copies as you want), or fax it to the Staples near the DMV in less than 15 minutes.

Cheers!

By: Wells

Wells — Wed, 16 May 2007 14:07:03 +0000

In a New York City DMV you must have your insurance agency FAX a copy of your coverage along with a personalized statement.

When dealing with a large company like Progressive this can be a hassle; however, it can be done in time.

By: citybiker

citybiker — Sun, 13 May 2007 01:30:57 +0000

Hey GJustyn,

I think the rule is, anytime the official cost of repair (including labor) is greater than the value of the vehicle, it gets a “salvage” title.

So your bike has def. been fixed up at some point – the only question is whether it was repaired properly…

Many folks buy salvaged bikes (at a discount) and have no trouble… BUT you can also wind up with major problems – like a bent frame, serious engine/transmission problems, etc…

I think you should definitely get it checked out by a good mechanic! It’s only a “deal” if the bike’s in good shape – and the discount should be deep enough that getting a mechanic to do a thorough check should be np.

Good luck!

By: gjustyn

gjustyn — Sat, 12 May 2007 21:09:11 +0000

I want to buy this bike but it has a salvage tilte the kid i am buying it from bought it at a police auction and does not know why it has a salvage tilte is there a way to find out why it has a salvaged title and also is there a way to get the original tiltle

By: citybiker

citybiker — Sat, 12 May 2007 18:49:36 +0000

Cheers Gopi! Maybe we should make it “NY…and Beyond” We’re certainly glad for our readers who live elsewhere! Good luck with your new bike, and ride safe!

By: Gopi

Gopi — Sat, 12 May 2007 03:59:40 +0000

One more thing I found about this site is, it is addressing the NY audience. It would be nice if you can accomodate all states. I am from Illionis.

By: Gopi

Gopi — Sat, 12 May 2007 03:37:19 +0000

I am buying my first bike tomorrow and I think this website gave me what I am looking for, for a beginner like me. Now I have not been to other wesbites but did think this is cool site for a beginner. I like the look and feel of the website too. Good job guys!! Hope you continue to serve the bikers community