Buying a second-hand bike can be problematic at times, if not aware of the complete set of processes. Especially, if it’s your first time, then you may need the required assistance to know how to choose the best-used bike and check two-wheeler value to pay a particular set amount.
When you are thinking of buying a used bike from a reliable dealer, then you should be aware of a few important things to follow.
So, here in this blog, we will be uncovering 10 important things that you must do before laying hands on a particular choice of second-hand motorcycle.
Things you must do when buying a used bike
- Know the motorcycle that you like to buy: The first and foremost thing that must do is know everything about the selected used bike. It should be in terms of knowing everything about the model in terms of its spare parts, components used inside, how it runs, the broken things, console functionality, features, and things like that. In short, you should have a complete idea of the bike’s condition and its running performance before buying the same.
- Check the bike’s service history: Another imperative thing that you cannot afford to miss is the bike’s service history record. It is essential to know the service background to check whether the owner has taken care of the motorcycle or not. If the bike has undergone regular service, then its condition must be proficient enough to last for a long span of time. In case, there is a gap in service time, then the bike might not be in good running condition.
- Call the dealer beforehand: When you deal with a second-hand bike dealer, you only know him as a professional who has multiple ranges of used bikes in possession and ready for sales purposes. Apart from that, it is essential on your part to know other details of the dealer. It could be in terms of years of service in the same industry, previous track record, list of customers, brand dealings, and things like that. If possible, then try to connect with the dealer’s previous set of customers to acquire the feedback and know, whether the dealer is genuine or not.
- Use a torch to look inside: To get a better view of a second-hand two-wheeler, you must switch on the torch and look closely at the parts and within. You must see if any of the parts are missing or broken in the bike or scooter. It is an essential matter to provide the current situation of the bike to the owner and ask him to do the necessary repair work.
- Do check paperwork in detail: One of the most important aspects of buying a used motorcycle is checking detailed paperwork. Buying a used two-wheeler legally requires you to obtain an original Registration Certificate, Insurance document, PUC certificate, service history record, tax paper, and other necessary documents. All these papers are required to buy your choice of used two-wheeler in a hassle-free manner.
- Take your own time: Don’t rush into the process of buying a used motorcycle in an instant. It is important to take your own time to conduct extensive research, ask manifold questions, and rectify the situation. Most importantly, thoroughly check the paperwork and the bike’s condition before buying the same. In our opinion, takes at least two weeks of time for buying a used two-wheeler.
- Know the seller better: When contacting a particularly used motorcycle dealer, try to be friendly with the same. Take a slight casual approach while communicating with the dealer and try to grasp hidden details. Doing this will help you contact a genuine vendor and buy a high-performing used two-wheeler at a lower price.
- Stay on the safer side: With that means, take a test ride of a second-hand two-wheeler to make sure of its performance or find any mechanical or electrical issues. That’s the reason, we recommend you to take at least 20-30 minutes of test ride to know the real condition and make an ideal decision.
- Check mechanical condition: Certainly, the mechanical condition of a used bike must be perfect and efficient enough to ride with ease. Look into the service history record of the bike to know which parts have been changed recently, if is there any physical damage in the past, parts condition, and more. Overall, the mechanical efficiency of second-hand bikes matters the most to ensure a long-riding experience ahead.
- Follow the complete checklist: Last but not least, follow the mentioned checklist diligently and make a wise decision ahead. Do not leave any of the important steps and lay your hands on ideal ideal-conditioned used motorcycle.
Different ways to spot used bike irregularities
Here in this part, you will get to know the different ways of finding any bike’s damaged or broken condition.
- Do check at the bottom of the fork legs to find any damage.
- Make sure the engine has all the required cases and nothing is missing.
- Look at the exhaust to know its physical condition and listen to the sound.
- Check the pegs that must be in appropriate condition.
- Check the bike’s radiator which must be in good and complete condition.
- Bodywork must be good enough and in the same color pattern.
- The frame should appear good enough to provide the optimum level of performance.
- If any of the accessories is there, then it should be in ideal condition.
Concluding Thoughts
Buying a second-hand two-wheeler is a wise decision, when you are fully aware of the strategic selection process. Follow our essential guide to follow the necessary checklist before laying hands on a high-performing and mileage-oriented used two-wheeler of your choice. In the case of performing old two-wheeler valuation, trust on the platform called Wheels of Trust (WOT) powered by Hero Motocorp brand. It’s a website that allows you to check any brand of two-wheeler’s value free of cost and that too without going anywhere else.