Buying a Used Motorcycle - Research

Research your options and needs before buying a Used Motorcycle

Used motorcycles of any type carry a risk. Some say you are only buying other people's problems because there are so many factors to consider. Has the motorcycle been regularly and carefully serviced? Is there accident damage? Is the braking system up to scratch? Has the engine been abused? Are spares and repairs expensive on this type of motorcycle? Does it have a good reputation for reliability? Is it really the type of motorcycle that will suit you? It's enough to make you dizzy.

When you are actually buying a used motorcycle the number of different options may be confusing and it can be difficult to decide which is your best buy. The Buyz123 three step guide - Research, Evaluation, Purchase - is designed to assist you in this buying process.

The Research step firstly involves investigating essential features of used motorcycles available on the market, and secondly identifying your actual needs in a used motorcycle.

In the Evaluation step you focus on how well the different features of individual used motorcycles meet your needs, and then how well the most suitable used motorcycles compare in detail, one to another.

Finally, in the Purchase step, the issues considered are: what to look for when actually buying the used motorcycle, what questions to ask and what information you should seek on warranty, customer service, and after-sales support.

As you work though the Buyz123 purchase strategy you will clarify your thoughts about your intended purchase, confidently compare used motorcycles one to another, and then purchase a used motorcycle that really does meet your needs.

Step 1: Research

In order to end up with the used motorcycle best suited to your needs, you have to clearly understand what you are looking for and what options are available to you. This is done by researching in two areas.

Firstly, you research the market to find out what kinds of used motorcycles are available, familiarizing yourself with the different features, styles and price ranges etc. Secondly, you examine your own unique requirements in a used motorcycle.

Research the market: Used Motorcycle essentials

Used motorcycles are plentiful; from the most ordinary everyday machines to models that look as if they were designed for a sci-fi movie. Some motorcycles also last for an incredibly long time. They were so well engineered in the first place and if they have been well cared for, it is not unusual to find motorcycles in good condition that are 30 years old.

The first part of the research step is to investigate just what's available in the used motorcycle market. The range of options can seem daunting, but you can make a good start by understanding the following major features:

Types: Used motorcycles are available in all the usual styles. Off-road motorcycles and road bikes ranging to step-through scooters to adventure motorcycles, big powerful cruisers and touring bikes. Sports and super-sports models are also available but tend to have shorter lives than the more prosaic machines.

Reliability: Motorcycle engines vary a lot and the high powered, small engines are destined to be less reliable than the larger, moderately powered engines as they grow older. Some manufacturers have a better reputation for reliability too; however this may vary from model to model made by the same manufacturer.

Functionality: Although motorcycles were only ever designed as a mode of transport for one or two people, you'll certainly find well appointed models with pannier storage and fairings that provide some comfort in inclement weather.

Cost: Older used motorcycles with smaller engines can be as little as one twelfth the price of a one-year-old super-sports motorcycle.

Research your needs: Questions to ask yourself

Now it's time to determine what your requirements are in a used motorcycle. For example, will you use the used motorcycle only for leisure riding or will it serve as your main means of transport?

You can start this process by considering the following questions - as well as any others you think of yourself - and recording your answers.

Have I bought a used motorcycle before?
	Work out what you did or didn't like about having a used motorcycle. You may be looking for something similar, hoping to upgrade, or even trying to avoid any particular features that did not please you when you last bought “used”.

What do I need a motorcycle for?
	Perhaps you are looking for a commuter motorcycle or you might be cruising at fast speeds over long distances. You may need an off-road motorcycle, a road-going motorcycle or a bit of both. Think about whether you will be carrying a passenger or packages.

Am I knowledgeable enough to buy a used motorcycle?
	Be brutally honest with yourself. If you doubt your capabilities to spot problems on used motorcycles in even the smallest way you should seek some guidance.

Do I know all the right questions to ask?
	In some countries, the dealer or seller is not under any obligation to tell you about crash damage or any similar problems unless you ask. Make sure you have a checklist of all the basic questions you need to ask about a used motorcycle.

How much do I want to pay?
	Used motorcycle costs vary, so it makes sense to set a budget.

Understanding your needs is the key to a successful purchase and you can revisit your list of needs at any time during the buying process.

Once you complete this Research step, having informed yourself about the essentials of used motorcycles and identified your needs, you are ready to move on to the next step: Evaluation.


Video Links

Motorcycle Fantasy - Promo Promotional video for selling used motorcycles at A&S BMW Motorcycles. (2m 6s)

Guide to buying a motorcycle: Part Two - Demo A video guide of the best ways to ensure you get a great deal on the motorcycle you want. (5m 55s)

Guide to buying a motorcycle part one - Demo A video guide of the best ways to ensure you get a great deal on the motorcycle you want. (5m 45s)

Buyz123.com Research Links:

Buyers Guide

Your buying guide to the most reliable motorcycles from 1978 to 2004

Top tips for used bikes

Things to check when buying a used motorcycle

How do I buy a used motorcycle?

Choosing used motorcycle

Should I buy a used motorbike?

Be a smart shopper when buying a motorcycle