{"id":12093,"date":"2024-01-26T18:17:47","date_gmt":"2024-01-27T01:17:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog2.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?p=12093"},"modified":"2024-01-29T14:45:50","modified_gmt":"2024-01-29T21:45:50","slug":"buying-a-used-motorcycle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/","title":{"rendered":"The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle"},"content":{"rendered":"<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC \"-\/\/W3C\/\/DTD HTML 4.0 Transitional\/\/EN\" \"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/TR\/REC-html40\/loose.dtd\">\n<html><body><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Feeling overwhelmed about where to start with buying a used motorcycle? <strong>It&rsquo;s common to worry about overpaying<\/strong> <em>or purchasing a vehicle with <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.acko.com\/bike-guide\/common-problems-with-bikes-and-their-solutions\/\" target=\"_blank\"><em>hidden mechanical issues<\/em><\/a><em>,&nbsp;<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Below, we&rsquo;ll walk you through key steps to take when buying a used motorcycle&ndash;like<strong> checking for engine wear<\/strong> or <strong>spotting hidden frame damage&ndash;<\/strong>ensuring you make a well-informed decision.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That way, you can buy with confidence, knowing you&rsquo;ve found a motorcycle that&rsquo;s <em>not just a good deal <\/em><strong>but the right fit for you<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"buying-a-used-motorcycle-checklist\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Buying a Used Motorcycle Checklist<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The right bike for you depends on <strong>how you plan to ride<\/strong>, <strong>your budget<\/strong>, and your<strong> level of experience<\/strong>. For <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/6-best-motorcycles-for-beginners\/\">beginners<\/a>, options like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.roughriderhd.com\/default.asp?page=xPrintInvDetail&amp;tid=1462251&amp;unit=-Harley-Davidson174-Sportster174-SuperLow174-Mandan-North-Dakota-id-1462251\" target=\"_blank\">Harley-Davidson Sportster Super Low<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/powersports.honda.com\/motorcycle\/cruiser\/rebel-300\" target=\"_blank\">Honda Rebel 300<\/a>, known for their manageability, are often ideal due to their manageability and smaller engines.<em> But are they right for you?<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-1-assess-your-riding-style\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #1: Assess Your Riding Style<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-motorcycle\/\">Choosing the right motorcycle<\/a> starts with understanding your riding style. Your choice should align with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/types-of-motorcycles\/\"><strong><em>how <\/em><\/strong>you plan to ride<\/a> and <strong><em>where <\/em><\/strong>you plan to ride most often.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here&rsquo;s a glimpse into the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/types-of-motorcycles\/\">different types of motorcycles<\/a> on the market:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Standard bikes<\/strong> are good for everyday use, offering a balanced ride in terms of comfort and handling. They&rsquo;re ideal for city commuting and occasional long rides.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cruisers<\/strong>: Designed for relaxed, long-distance riding with a comfortable, laid-back seating position; perfect for leisurely weekend rides.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sport bikes<\/strong>: Built for speed and agility, with a forward-leaning position, they&rsquo;re great for those who enjoy a more dynamic, adrenaline-fueled riding experience.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Touring bikes<\/strong>: Equipped for long-distance travel, with features like a large fuel tank, ample storage, and wind protection, making them suitable for cross-country trips.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When you&rsquo;re browsing used motorcycles, look out for the following models:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>For commuting<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.triumphmotorcycles.com\/motorcycles\/adventure\/tiger-sport-660\" target=\"_blank\">Triumph Tiger Sport 660 <\/a>or <a href=\"https:\/\/powersports.honda.com\/motorcycle\/adventure\/cb500x\" target=\"_blank\">Honda CB500X<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For touring<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kawasaki.com\/en-us\/motorcycle\/ninja\/hypersport\/ninja-h2-sx\/2023-ninja-h2-sx-se\" target=\"_blank\">2023 Kawasaki Ninja H2 SX SE<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bmwmotorcycles.com\/en\/models\/tour\/r1250rt.html\" target=\"_blank\">2023 BMW R 1250 RT<\/a> (designed for long-distance comfort with features like luggage storage and wind protection).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For off-roading<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/powersports.honda.com\/motorcycle\/dual-sport\/crf300l\" target=\"_blank\">Honda CRF300L<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.royalenfield.com\/us\/en\/motorcycles\/himalayan\/\" target=\"_blank\">Royal Enfield Himalayan<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<html><body><div id=\"in_post\">\n    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/search?storing=Trailer\" onclick=\"rudderanalytics.track('press editorial cta button', {location: 'first in post', version: '2.0'}, () =&gt; { console.log('track call'); });\">\r\n  <div class=\"first-in-post-cta\">\r\n    <header>\r\n      <h2 id=\"how-neighbor-is-changing-storage\">How Neighbor is changing storage<\/h2>\r\n    <\/header>\r\n    <section>\r\n      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n        <div class=\"service-option-icon\">\r\n          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"60\" height=\"60\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 60\" fill=\"none\">\r\n            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M13.125 9.375C11.0539 9.375 9.375 11.0539 9.375 13.125V46.875C9.375 48.9461 11.0539 50.625 13.125 50.625H46.875C48.9461 50.625 50.625 48.9461 50.625 46.875V13.125C50.625 11.0539 48.9461 9.375 46.875 9.375H13.125ZM28.125 16.875C28.125 15.8395 28.9645 15 30 15C31.0355 15 31.875 15.8395 31.875 16.875V20.625H35.625C36.6605 20.625 37.5 21.4645 37.5 22.5C37.5 23.5355 36.6605 24.375 35.625 24.375H26.25C25.2145 24.375 24.375 25.2145 24.375 26.25C24.375 27.2855 25.2145 28.125 26.25 28.125H33.75C36.8566 28.125 39.375 30.6434 39.375 33.75C39.375 36.8566 36.8566 39.375 33.75 39.375H31.875V43.125C31.875 44.1605 31.0355 45 30 45C28.9645 45 28.125 44.1605 28.125 43.125V39.375H22.5C21.4645 39.375 20.625 38.5355 20.625 37.5C20.625 36.4645 21.4645 35.625 22.5 35.625H33.75C34.7855 35.625 35.625 34.7855 35.625 33.75C35.625 32.7145 34.7855 31.875 33.75 31.875H26.25C23.1434 31.875 20.625 29.3566 20.625 26.25C20.625 23.1434 23.1434 20.625 26.25 20.625H28.125V16.875Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n          <\/svg>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <h3 id=\"transparent-monthly-savings\">Transparent monthly savings<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Renters save 30-50% on vehicle storage, on average. No rate hikes.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n        <div class=\"service-option-icon\">\r\n          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"60\" height=\"61\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 61\" fill=\"none\">\r\n            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M31.2776 52.4974L31.7666 52.0417C32.0789 51.7503 32.527 51.3317 33.0706 50.8224C34.1576 49.8041 35.6276 48.4224 37.158 46.9698C40.1682 44.1127 43.5576 40.8461 44.596 39.6282C46.7163 37.1414 48.1719 34.1468 48.8127 30.9251C49.5529 27.204 49.173 23.347 47.7211 19.8418C46.2692 16.3366 43.8105 13.3407 40.6559 11.2329C37.5015 9.12514 33.7942 8 30.0001 8C26.2061 8 22.4973 9.12504 19.3428 11.2329C16.1882 13.3407 13.7295 16.3366 12.2776 19.8418C10.8257 23.347 10.4458 27.204 11.186 30.9251C11.8268 34.1468 13.2824 37.1414 15.4027 39.6282C16.4411 40.8462 19.831 44.1128 22.8415 46.9698C24.3721 48.4224 25.8422 49.8042 26.9294 50.8225C27.4731 51.3318 27.9212 51.7504 28.2336 52.0418L28.723 52.4979C29.4428 53.1672 30.5579 53.1668 31.2776 52.4974ZM28.723 52.4979C28.723 52.4979 28.7232 52.498 30.0001 51.125L28.723 52.4979ZM30.0001 51.125L31.2776 52.4974C31.2776 52.4974 31.2771 52.4979 30.0001 51.125ZM30 33.3125C33.6243 33.3125 36.5625 30.3744 36.5625 26.75C36.5625 23.1256 33.6243 20.1875 30 20.1875C26.3756 20.1875 23.4375 23.1256 23.4375 26.75C23.4375 30.3744 26.3756 33.3125 30 33.3125Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n          <\/svg>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <h3 id=\"keep-your-toys-nearby\">Keep your toys nearby<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Hosts in your neighborhood means that your items are always close by.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"service-option\">\r\n        <div class=\"service-option-icon\">\r\n          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"60\" height=\"60\" viewbox=\"0 0 60 60\" fill=\"none\">\r\n            <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M30 7.5C25.5499 7.5 21.1998 8.8196 17.4997 11.2919C13.7996 13.7643 10.9157 17.2783 9.21272 21.3896C7.50975 25.501 7.06417 30.025 7.93234 34.3895C8.80051 38.7541 10.9434 42.7632 14.0901 45.9099C17.2368 49.0566 21.2459 51.1995 25.6105 52.0677C29.975 52.9358 34.4991 52.4903 38.6104 50.7873C42.7217 49.0843 46.2357 46.2004 48.7081 42.5003C51.1804 38.8002 52.5 34.4501 52.5 30C52.5 24.0326 50.1295 18.3097 45.9099 14.0901C41.6903 9.87053 35.9674 7.5 30 7.5ZM41.5295 26.7545C42.7193 25.5646 42.7193 23.6354 41.5295 22.4455C40.3396 21.2556 38.4104 21.2556 37.2205 22.4455L26.7061 32.96L22.7795 29.0334C21.5896 27.8435 19.6604 27.8435 18.4705 29.0334C17.2807 30.2232 17.2807 32.1524 18.4705 33.3423L24.5516 39.4234C25.123 39.9948 25.898 40.3158 26.7061 40.3158C27.5142 40.3158 28.2891 39.9948 28.8605 39.4234L41.5295 26.7545Z\" fill=\"#005EB8\"><\/path>\r\n          <\/svg>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <h3 id=\"storage-made-simple\">Storage made simple<\/h3>\r\n        <p>Don't settle for stone age tech and long contracts. Neighbor makes it easy.<\/p>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/section>\r\n    <footer>\r\n      <button>Search nearby options <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"25\" height=\"24\" viewbox=\"0 0 25 24\" fill=\"none\">\r\n          <path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M11 2.90625C9.4981 2.90625 8.02993 3.35162 6.78114 4.18603C5.53236 5.02044 4.55905 6.20642 3.98429 7.594C3.40954 8.98157 3.25916 10.5084 3.55217 11.9815C3.84517 13.4545 4.56841 14.8076 5.63041 15.8696C6.69242 16.9316 8.04549 17.6548 9.51854 17.9478C10.9916 18.2408 12.5184 18.0905 13.906 17.5157C14.4508 17.29 14.9646 17.0029 15.4382 16.6618L19.5132 20.7368C19.9892 21.2127 20.7608 21.2127 21.2368 20.7368C21.7127 20.2608 21.7127 19.4892 21.2368 19.0132L17.1618 14.9382C17.2137 14.8661 17.2645 14.793 17.314 14.7189C18.1484 13.4701 18.5938 12.0019 18.5938 10.5C18.5938 8.48601 17.7937 6.55451 16.3696 5.13041C14.9455 3.7063 13.014 2.90625 11 2.90625ZM14.7493 14.0398C14.9463 13.8311 15.1264 13.6054 15.2873 13.3647C15.8538 12.5167 16.1562 11.5198 16.1562 10.5C16.1562 9.13248 15.613 7.82096 14.646 6.85398C13.679 5.887 12.3675 5.34375 11 5.34375C9.98019 5.34375 8.98328 5.64616 8.13534 6.21273C7.2874 6.77931 6.62651 7.58461 6.23625 8.52679C5.84599 9.46897 5.74387 10.5057 5.94283 11.5059C6.14178 12.5061 6.63287 13.4249 7.35398 14.146C8.0751 14.8671 8.99385 15.3582 9.99407 15.5572C10.9943 15.7561 12.031 15.654 12.9732 15.2638C13.5557 15.0225 14.086 14.6777 14.5398 14.2493C14.5699 14.2108 14.6028 14.1737 14.6382 14.1382C14.6737 14.1028 14.7108 14.0699 14.7493 14.0398Z\" fill=\"#EFF5F8\"><\/path>\r\n        <\/svg>\r\n      <\/button>\r\n    <\/footer>\r\n  <\/div>\r\n<\/a>\n  <\/div><\/body><\/html><h2 id=\"step-2-set-your-budget\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #2: Set Your Budget<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Budgeting for a used motorcycle goes beyond the sticker price. On average, <strong>expect to spend about $2,500<\/strong>, but be prepared for a possible $500 bump in either direction. Additionally, account for extra costs, which include:<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Taxes &amp; tags<\/strong>: These fees can range from $20 to $100 depending on what state you live in.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Insurance<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.valuepenguin.com\/average-cost-of-motorcycle-insurance\" target=\"_blank\">Expect to spend an average of $519 annually<\/a> in the U.S., which will vary with factors like your age, driving record, and bike type.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dealer&rsquo;s setup or service fees<\/strong> (if you choose to buy from a dealership).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Ongoing maintenance<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nationwide.com\/lc\/resources\/powersports\/articles\/motorcycle-maintenance-checklist\" target=\"_blank\">Ongoing maintenance<\/a> for a used motorcycle typically costs between $100 to $300 annually. These costs will cover basic upkeep like oil changes and air filters, in addition to expenses like tire replacements. When major services are required every few years, expect to pay several hundred dollars more a year.&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-3-evaluate-your-skill-level\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #3: Evaluate Your Skill Level<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choosing the right motorcycle requires an honest <a href=\"https:\/\/jimmylewisoffroad.com\/2012\/02\/28\/know-your-skill-level\" target=\"_blank\">assessment of your skill level<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your skill level influences the type and size of bike suitable for your abilities. It&rsquo;s important to be realistic about your riding skill level, as different bikes have different handling characteristics and power levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, <strong>larger and heavier motorcycles may demand more strength and control,<\/strong> while <strong>more powerful bikes may require greater experience and skill<\/strong> for safe handling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-4-research-and-compare-used-motorcycles\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #4: Research and Compare Used Motorcycles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before making a decision, it&rsquo;s essential to research and compare options thoroughly. Here&rsquo;s where you might go to start or deepen your knowledge about what bikes are out there:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"search-online-platforms\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Search online platforms&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When searching for a used motorcycle, online platforms like eBay Motors, Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and Cycle Trader are valuable resources. They offer:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Wide selection<\/strong>: A diverse range of motorcycles, from vintage models to recent ones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Search filters<\/strong>: Options to filter your search by year, make, model, and location.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, these platforms have drawbacks. For example, It&rsquo;s hard to verify the bike&rsquo;s condition online, and you run the risk of encountering fraudulent listings or dishonest sellers. That&rsquo;s why <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdpower.com\/motorcycles\/shopping-guides\/questions-to-ask-when-buying-a-used-motorcycle\" target=\"_blank\">asking questions<\/a> is key.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To mitigate these issues:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Bring a knowledgeable friend or a professional mechanic to inspect the motorcycle in person.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Engage in detailed conversations with the seller about the motorcycle&rsquo;s history and current condition.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Familiarize yourself with the bike&rsquo;s model, common issues, and fair market value to make an informed decision.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"visit-dealerships\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit dealerships<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Dealerships are another excellent source for finding used motorcycles, although you can expect higher prices. Their advantages include:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Quality assurance<\/strong>: Many dealerships provide certified pre-owned bikes that have been inspected and come with a warranty.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Professional advice<\/strong>: Dealers can offer expert guidance on the suitability of different models for your needs.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Financing options:<\/strong> If you&rsquo;re considering financing, dealerships often have options available, sometimes with competitive rates.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To navigate dealership purchases:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Research prices online beforehand to ensure you&rsquo;re getting a fair deal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Be clear about your needs and budget<\/strong> when interacting with sellers. <em>(Note: Keeping your wishlist and non-negotiables top-of-mind will reduce your risk of being swayed by sales pitches).&nbsp;<\/em><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask about any additional fees that may not be immediately apparent.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"utilize-motorcycle-forums\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Utilize Motorcycle Forums<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Forums offer a wealth of information from a community of enthusiasts and experts. You&rsquo;ll gain insights from other riders&rsquo; experiences with different models, get answers to specific technical questions or issues, and benefit from the shared experiences and tips of members. <a href=\"https:\/\/forums.feedspot.com\/motorcycle_forums\/\" target=\"_blank\">Popular forums<\/a> include <a href=\"https:\/\/www.motorcycleforum.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Motorcycle Forum<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/community.motorcycle.com\/forums\/others.22\/\" target=\"_blank\">Motorcycle Community Forum<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.team-bhp.com\/forum\/\" target=\"_blank\">Team BHP Forum<\/a>, and <a href=\"http:\/\/bike-talk.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Bike Talk<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-5-inspect-the-used-motorcycle\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #5: Inspect the Used Motorcycle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before taking a test ride, ask about the motorcycle&rsquo;s history to understand its background, previous use, and details of any major repairs. A detailed visual inspection is also crucial, especially on an older bike. So check the following key areas:<br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Engine<\/strong>: Check for oil leaks and any smoke on startup. These can indicate engine wear or damage.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Mileage<\/strong>: The motorcycle&rsquo;s mileage can tell you how much life it has left. For sport bikes, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cardosystems.com\/blog\/what-is-high-mileage-for-a-motorcycle\" target=\"_blank\">mileage is considered high<\/a> at around 25,000 miles. For cruisers and touring bikes, high mileage starts in the 40,000- to 50,000-mile range.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Frame and suspension<\/strong>: Look for any signs of damage or previous accidents. This includes checking for cracks, bends, or rust.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tires, chain, and sprocket<\/strong>: Ensure the motorcycle tires have even wear and sufficient tread. Inspect the chain and sprocket for rust, binding links, or uneven wear.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Brakes and fluids:<\/strong> Check the brake pads for wear and the brake fluid for clarity and level. Check the brake lever for smooth operation and responsiveness. Discoloration or low levels can signal maintenance issues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Checking for matching Vehicle Identification Numbers<\/strong>: To avoid legal issues, Ensure the bike&rsquo;s VIN matches the one on the title.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Looking for signs of a tip-over or crash<\/strong>: This includes scratches or bent handlebars.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Electrical system check<\/strong>: Test all lights, signals, and the dashboard for functionality.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coolant system<\/strong>: For liquid-cooled bikes, check the coolant level and look for leaks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Service records<\/strong>: Ask for the bike&rsquo;s service history to gauge how well it&rsquo;s been maintained.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cold start<\/strong>: Observe how the bike starts when the engine is cold, as difficulties can indicate issues.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After your initial inspection, be sure to ask about the bike&rsquo;s maintenance history and whether it had another previous owner. In the motorcycle world, experienced riders selling their vehicle won&rsquo;t mind having their bike inspected by a potential buyer. You can even ask them for a vehicle history report.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here&rsquo;s<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=yzSJbyziAUM\" target=\"_blank\"><strong> a handy video<\/strong><\/a><strong> showing you what to look for.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-6-take-a-test-ride\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #6: Take a Test Ride<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A<a href=\"https:\/\/www.riders-share.com\/blog\/article\/how-to-test-ride-motorcycles-before-you-buy\" target=\"_blank\"> test ride<\/a> can reveal much about the motorcycle&rsquo;s condition. Here&rsquo;s what you&rsquo;ll want to try and determine to see if the bike is in good shape:&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Engine operation<\/strong>: Feel for smooth clutch and throttle action. Roughness or hesitation can indicate problems.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Handling and suspension<\/strong>: Pay attention to how the bike handles bumps and corners. Difficulty in handling or excessive bouncing suggests suspension issues.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Brake performance<\/strong>: Test the responsiveness of the brakes. Ineffective braking or strange noises are red flags.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Overall comfort<\/strong>: Ensure the bike feels comfortable and stable, as this impacts your riding experience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-7-know-the-motorcycles-value\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #7: Know the Motorcycle&rsquo;s Value<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A crucial first step in negotiation is understanding the motorcycle&rsquo;s worth. You can determine the motorcycle&rsquo;s fair market value by consulting resources like the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.kbb.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Kelley Blue Book<\/a> or the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nada.org\/nada\/consumer-vehicle-values\" target=\"_blank\">NADA Motorcycle Value Guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When assessing the value of a used motorcycle, it&rsquo;s important to consider factors such as its condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Most riders find that taking it for a test ride is one of the best ways to evaluate a used bike. That way, you can get a feel for its performance and handling.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"understanding-payment-options\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Understanding Payment Options<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once the price has been successfully negotiated, you can move on to discussing payment methods. <strong>Personal loans and motorcycle loans are two options you can consider.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Personal loans are unsecured and may not necessitate a down payment, but they typically come with higher interest rates since the motorcycle does not serve as collateral.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.lendingtree.com\/auto\/motorcycle\/get-motorcycle-loan\/\" target=\"_blank\">Motorcycle loans<\/a> are secured, with the bike serving as collateral.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Dealer financing is another option, where your loan application is submitted to multiple lenders to find the best rate and terms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-8-prepare-to-transfer-of-title-and-registration\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #8: Prepare to Transfer of Title and Registration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you&rsquo;ve bought your used motorcycle, the next step is to <strong>transfer the title and registration at the DMV.<\/strong> Registering a used motorcycle involves visiting your local DMV or, in some states, your county tax office. You will need the Certificate of Title for the bike or the lienholder&rsquo;s name and address if the motorcycle is financed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-9-remember-insurance-and-safety-gear\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #9: Remember Insurance and Safety Gear<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After the title and registration are transferred to your name, the next step is to secure motorcycle insurance. Motorcycle liability coverage, which covers damages caused to others, is essential for motorcycles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Equally important is investing in safety gear, including riding gear. This consists of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Helmet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Riding jacket<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Gloves<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Earplugs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>High-visibility vest<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eye protection<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Knee and elbow guards<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Chest armor<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Face shield<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"step-10-invest-in-maintenance-and-upkeep\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Step #10: Invest in Maintenance and Upkeep<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Routine maintenance is key to the longevity of a used motorcycle. The typical maintenance schedule for a bike includes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Checking the battery.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Changing the brake oil (approximately every two years or around 20,000 kilometers).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Checking tire pressure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maintaining the engine oil level.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Adjusting chain slack if applicable.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Inspecting brake pads.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cleaning or replacing the air and oil filters.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"final-thoughts\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Remember, the right motorcycle is out there for you. Once you&rsquo;ve found the perfect bike and are ready to make it yours, consider your storage options. A motorcycle, especially a used one, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/how-to-store-a-motorcycle-without-a-garage\/\">requires proper storage<\/a> to maintain its condition.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&rsquo;re short on space, Neighbor offers a variety of safe, nearby, and budget-friendly storage solutions. From 5&rsquo;x10&rsquo; units to traditional garages, we have options to protect your motorcycle against rust, mold, and other elements. Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/self-storage-near-me\">Self-Storage Near Me<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/garages-near-me\">Garages Near Me<\/a> to find the perfect spot for your new ride.<\/p>\n<\/body><\/html>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Feeling overwhelmed about where to start with buying a used motorcycle? It&rsquo;s common to worry about overpaying or&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":41,"featured_media":12095,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"csco_singular_sidebar":"","csco_page_header_type":"","csco_appearance_grid":"","csco_page_load_nextpost":"","csco_post_video_location":[],"csco_post_video_location_hash":"","csco_post_video_url":"","csco_post_video_bg_start_time":0,"csco_post_video_bg_end_time":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[199],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12093","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-motorcycles","cs-entry","cs-video-wrap"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v21.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle - Neighbor Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"If you&#039;re buying a used motorcycle, you may be worried about overpaying or purchasing a vehicle with hidden mechanical issues. But fear not!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle - Neighbor Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"If you&#039;re buying a used motorcycle, you may be worried about overpaying or purchasing a vehicle with hidden mechanical issues. But fear not!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Neighbor Blog\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2024-01-27T01:17:47+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-01-29T21:45:50+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/buying-used-motorcycle-featured.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"2000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1391\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Jessica Baron\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Jessica Baron\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"8 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/\",\"name\":\"The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle - Neighbor Blog\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website\"},\"datePublished\":\"2024-01-27T01:17:47+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-01-29T21:45:50+00:00\",\"author\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a6b451217387e729467aa42c7a7be2f\"},\"description\":\"If you're buying a used motorcycle, you may be worried about overpaying or purchasing a vehicle with hidden mechanical issues. But fear not!\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/\",\"name\":\"Neighbor Blog\",\"description\":\"Official Blog of Neighbor.com\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":\"required name=search_term_string\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a6b451217387e729467aa42c7a7be2f\",\"name\":\"Jessica Baron\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d1c4d1c392f5d20aa865f6adec5b3e9cf4ac056e245e364e314d38a266d8331?s=96&d=blank&r=pg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d1c4d1c392f5d20aa865f6adec5b3e9cf4ac056e245e364e314d38a266d8331?s=96&d=blank&r=pg\",\"caption\":\"Jessica Baron\"},\"description\":\"Jessica Baron is a professional business writer and editor specializing in technology, manufacturing, and management software. She has written everything from white papers to blogs for small businesses and Fortune 500 companies alike. She has also served as the managing editor of a top-tier academic journal and the editor-in-chief of an international technology news website.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/author\/jessicabaron\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle - Neighbor Blog","description":"If you're buying a used motorcycle, you may be worried about overpaying or purchasing a vehicle with hidden mechanical issues. But fear not!","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle - Neighbor Blog","og_description":"If you're buying a used motorcycle, you may be worried about overpaying or purchasing a vehicle with hidden mechanical issues. But fear not!","og_url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/","og_site_name":"Neighbor Blog","article_published_time":"2024-01-27T01:17:47+00:00","article_modified_time":"2024-01-29T21:45:50+00:00","og_image":[{"width":2000,"height":1391,"url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/buying-used-motorcycle-featured.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Jessica Baron","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Jessica Baron","Est. reading time":"8 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/","url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/","name":"The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle - Neighbor Blog","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website"},"datePublished":"2024-01-27T01:17:47+00:00","dateModified":"2024-01-29T21:45:50+00:00","author":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a6b451217387e729467aa42c7a7be2f"},"description":"If you're buying a used motorcycle, you may be worried about overpaying or purchasing a vehicle with hidden mechanical issues. But fear not!","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/"]}]},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/buying-a-used-motorcycle\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"The 10 Best Tips For Buying a Used Motorcycle"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/","name":"Neighbor Blog","description":"Official Blog of Neighbor.com","potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":"required name=search_term_string"}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/8a6b451217387e729467aa42c7a7be2f","name":"Jessica Baron","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/#\/schema\/person\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d1c4d1c392f5d20aa865f6adec5b3e9cf4ac056e245e364e314d38a266d8331?s=96&d=blank&r=pg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/9d1c4d1c392f5d20aa865f6adec5b3e9cf4ac056e245e364e314d38a266d8331?s=96&d=blank&r=pg","caption":"Jessica Baron"},"description":"Jessica Baron is a professional business writer and editor specializing in technology, manufacturing, and management software. She has written everything from white papers to blogs for small businesses and Fortune 500 companies alike. She has also served as the managing editor of a top-tier academic journal and the editor-in-chief of an international technology news website.","url":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/author\/jessicabaron\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12093","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12093"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12093\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12094,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12093\/revisions\/12094"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/12095"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12093"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12093"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12093"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}