Used Motorcycle Buyer’s Guide

Check for fluid leaks

Look for oil around the drain plug and anywhere there’s a seal. Examples include around the chain sprocket, kick-start lever, shifter shaft and drive shaft (on shaft-driven bikes). Check the forks and rear shocks, too. Some softtails require you to crawl on the ground to examine the shocks. Don’t forget to look for antifreeze leaks around hoses. Follow the cooling hoses to the water pump and radiator. Check for cracks or dents that indicate the bike has been laid on the ground.

Tire condition                                       

Check tread condition. Although the rear tire bears all the torque, the front tire wears out as it scrubs the road in corners. Many tires have wear indicators that show when the tread is worn. If not, insert a penny upside down between the treads. If Abe Lincoln’s head is entirely visible, the tread is worn. Check for sidewall cracks while you’re at it.

Check for signs of abuse

Look under the back tire for signs of rubber fragments. Their presence could be a sign the previous owner enjoyed one too many burnouts. Look for cracked paint or powder coating. Their presence could mean something has been bent or cracked. Examine the ends of the handle bars and shift levers for scrapes that could indicate the bike has been laid on the ground.

Check the lights

Start the bike and check that the headlight, running lights and directional lights all work.

Check brake condition

Use a flashlight to see if the brake pads are excessively worn. Look for bluing on the rotors that indicate extreme heat. During the test ride, apply the brakes slowly and evenly to feel for pulsing, which indicates warped rotors.

Test the suspension

Stand astride the bike and bounce up and down to test the suspension. It shouldn’t “dribble” like a basketball. Instead, it should dampen and rebound slowly.

Examine the chain sprocket

Sharp, pointy chain sprocket teeth are a sign of wear. Also, move the chain from side to side. Excessive play or movement in the chain means it’s worn out.

Look inside the gas tank

Open the gas cap and check inside the tank using a flashlight. Look for varnish and deposits settled on the bottom of the tank. Check for rust, too. Debris in the tank can foul the fuel system and lead to starting difficulties and poor performance.