Many individuals aspiring to own a new motorcycle often find themselves on a limited budget, leading them to consider buying a used or second-hand motorcycle. However, concerns often arise about the condition of the chosen used motorcycle, primarily due to buyers’ lack of knowledge about driving habits or the maintenance and service history of the vehicle’s previous owner. In essence, purchasing a secondhand motorcycle can be highly rewarding if you understand how to buy and choose the right used motorcycle.
You can follow the following tips for buying a secondhand motorcycle:
1. Ensure the Presence of the Second-hand Motorcycle’s Ownership Document
Ensure the second-hand motorcycle you’re eyeing comes with a valid ownership document, known as the “geran motor.” This crucial document confirms the motorcycle’s identity with serial numbers, registered owner details, and essential vehicle information. Details such as Engine Number, Chassis Number, Model, and Usage Class are vital for road legality verification. The document also includes information on settled payments like road tax and ownership transfers, serving as a crucial safeguard against unintentionally buying a stolen motorcycle.
Check the Engine Oil
The first thing to do before buying a second-hand motorcycle is to inspect the level of engine oil. Excessive oil may result in a slower engine sound, indirectly masking the bike’s original, potentially rougher, engine noise.
Mileage of the Secondhand Motorcycle
Pay attention to the mileage of the motorcycle you’re considering. If a relatively new bike has high mileage, it indicates frequent use by the original owner. Essentially, the higher the mileage, the greater the risk of motor component damage and associated repair costs.
Motorcycle Body Parts
Stand in front of the motorcycle and check if the front and rear tires are aligned. Misaligned tires could suggest a history of accidents or collisions.
Inspect the Fork Tubes, Vital Motorcycle Components
Observe the fork tubes for oil stains, which may indicate damaged or unreplaced oil seal rings. Additionally, check other components like the swing arm, tire rims, and more.
Rock the swing arm left and right; if it feels loose, it may be due to worn-out swing arm bushings;
Check the motorcycle suspension to ensure it’s still in good condition.
If the front fork tubes are bent, there’s a possibility the motorcycle was in an accident;
2. Inspect the Motorcycle Engine
Fundamentally, the engine is the most crucial component of a motorcycle. If the engine isn’t functioning properly, it can disrupt the overall operation of the bike. Check for any leaks or cracks in this component, as they can lead to serious issues. Low engine oil due to engine leaks can pose a risk of damage to critical motor components, indirectly increasing repair costs.
Additionally, attempt to start the engine and assess its condition while running. Identify any unusual sounds emanating from the engine block, as certain noises during startup may indicate specific motor component problems. Also, inspect the exhaust smoke. White or black smoke suggests particular engine issues, such as incomplete combustion.
3. Test Drive the Motorcycle for Performance Assessment
Test-driving the motorcycle is a secure method to assess the quality and performance of a used bike. Taking the second-hand motorcycle for a spin is a vital step in helping you make an informed purchase. This allows you to personally experience the motorcycle’s ride, uncover hidden damages, and avoid potential future disappointments or issues. Riding at speeds between 100 to 110 km/h, observe for vibrations, as strong vibrations may signify engine problems. Additionally, focus on aspects such as:
Observe if the motorcycle tends to lean to the left or right during the ride; this could be related to tire issues.
Identify any unusual sounds produced during the test drive.
Conduct the test drive in uneven or bumpy road areas to assess handling and driving performance.
Check for any issues with the clutch or gears of the motorcycle.
Note if the motorcycle takes a long time to come to a complete stop or if you need to apply the brakes forcefully.
4. Warranty for Second-hand Motorcycles
When it comes to second-hand motorcycles, buyers are naturally concerned about the purchased bike’s quality. Secondhand motorcycles are not guaranteed to be in perfect condition. If possible, opt for a used motorcycle that comes with a warranty. Typically, secondhand motorcycle dealerships provide warranties for a month or more, depending on the situation. In case of any issues within the warranty period, you can return the motorcycle to the dealership for inspection.
In the dance of wheels and memories, choosing a second-hand motorcycle requires a thoughtful waltz. Consider the symphony of history, the heartbeat of maintenance, and the melody of your riding dreams before stepping into the rhythm of ownership
May this sharing of tips on buying a second-hand motorcycle assist you in making informed decisions and selecting the best-used motorcycle for your needs. Additionally, if you are considering obtaining affordable motorcycle insurance for your used motorcycle, visit Super Motor Co., to get insurance service located at No. 11, Jalan Kacung Satu, SEDC Tampoi, 81200 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
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