Does it make sense buying a used bike?
Yes it does, particularly if you feel you lack the budget for a brand new 2-wheeler. Bike manufacturers are churning out new models at an alarming rate nowadays and people are on a constant lookout to upgrade to a spanking new version. As a result, the second hand bike market is flooded with many tempting choices, especially for the bike enthusiast. However, before you head off to buy your bike or scooter, it is important that you follow some pointers on how and what to check before you make your purchase.
Vroom tip – Before you go to inspect your prospective buy, do some research on 2-wheelers, the various models available in the market and pros and cons of each model. Also, ask a friend to accompany you who you can discuss specific details or problems with.
- Check the overall appearance of the bike.
- Inspect the body of the bike carefully.
- Check the mileage.
- Test ride the bike.
- Check the bike’s history and the background of the seller.
- Check other mechanical details.
1. Check the overall appearance of the bike.
What does the general condition of the bike look like when you first set your eyes on it? Usually, you can tell if a piece is in a bad condition but mechanics nowadays can easily cover up any cracks, scratches or bumps. Check to see if the bike is symmetrical i.e. the mirrors, handlebars, signals, etc should be perfectly symmetrical. Stand at the back of the bike and look down its centre. If the mirrors and signals look like they are sticking out at odd angles, you might have a problem.
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2. Inspect the body of the bike carefully.
It can sometimes be difficult to tell if the bike has been in an accident or a crash. Check the body for signs of scratches, different shades or type of paint job, dents on the gas tank or exhaust pipe, bent indicators / signals and bent brake or clutch levers. Make sure all the pieces fit perfectly and are not replacements. Now check the wheels of the bike. Look for dents on both sides of the wheels. Check the condition of the seat.
Vroom tip – Inspect the 2-wheeler in broad daylight. Even then, we recommend that you carry a torch with you so that you can easily see cracks, scratches or paint discolorations.
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3. Check the odometer.
Tampering with the odometer is a common trick. Check the mileage of the bike and assess whether this matches with the age and condition of the bike. If you are in doubt, check with the seller and if your doubts are not cleared, we suggest you walk away.
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4. Test ride the bike.
When you start the bike, check if it is having trouble starting when it is cold. Listen for any rattling or knocking sounds. If you are in any doubt about the sound of the engine when you rev the accelerator, check with the seller as to what the problem could be. There are numerous cases of the engine being replaced with a cheaper one. Check for any exhaust leaks. While the bike is moving, check if the gear shift is smooth without any interruption. Also, move the handlebar from side to side to see if they move smoothly. Take your hands off the handlebar and see if it wobbles or if the bike pulls to one side. Accelerate hard on each gear to check for any jumps out of gear. The bike should easily pull from low speed to high speed cleanly. Now check the shock absorbers. On low speed, apply the front brakes and observe how the bike comes to a stop. The bike should immediately compress a little and come to its original position. If this movement is slow, there could be a problem with the shock absorbers. Repeat the test for the rear brakes as well. The suspension fork legs of the bike should be smooth without any scratches and should move up and down without making any sound at all.
Vroom tip – Make sure the bike has not been warmed up before you inspect it. Call the seller in advance and tell him that you would like the bike’s engine to be cold.
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5. Check the bike’s history and the background of the seller.
It is exceptionally important that you check all the ownership documents. Ask the seller for his address and proof of it and then quiz him for all the details about the bike such as previous owners (if any), accident history (if any), service history, etc. If the seller cannot provide you with the papers immediately or is in any way reluctant, walk away.
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5. Check other mechanical and functional details.
Make sure that the headlights function properly. Do the same with the indicator lights. When you start the bike, make sure that the oil pressure light comes on and goes off when the engine is turned off. Check all the switches and lights.
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