A used motorcycle can be a great way to get more bike for your money. But a bike that looks good in the photos isn’t always as good in person, and a few simple checks can save you a lot of cost and frustration later.
Whether you’re buying your first bike or upgrading, use this guide to know what to look for before you hand over any money.
Paperwork and Service History
Start with the documents, because they tell you a lot before you even look at the bike.
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The V5C logbook: check that the name and address match the seller, and that the registration, chassis (VIN) and engine numbers match the bike itself.
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Service history: a stamped service book or a folder of invoices shows the bike has been looked after. Regular servicing matters far more than a low mileage figure.
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MOT history: you can check any bike’s MOT record on GOV.UK for free. Look for repeated advisories, big gaps between tests and mileage that doesn’t add up.
- A history check: a vehicle check will tell you whether the bike has outstanding finance, has been recorded as stolen or has been written off.
If the seller can’t or won’t show you the paperwork, treat that as a warning sign and be ready to walk away.
Bodywork, Tyres, Chain and Brakes
Go over the bike slowly, in good light, and look at the parts that wear or get damaged most.
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Bodywork and frame: look for scratches, cracked fairings and bent levers, which can point to a drop or a slide.
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Tyres: the legal minimum tread depth is 1mm, but check for cracks and uneven wear too. Old tyres harden even when the tread looks fine, so check the date code on the sidewall.
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Chain and sprockets: a dry, rusty or tight-spotted chain, or hooked sprocket teeth, means replacements are due soon.
- Brakes: check the pads for thickness and the discs for deep grooves. The levers should feel firm.
Also check for oil leaks and that the lights, indicators and horn all work. Any problems you find help you judge the true cost of the bike and give you something to raise when you talk about price.
The Test Ride
Nothing replaces getting on the bike. If you can, ask to see it started from cold, as a bike that has already been warmed up can hide starting problems.
Once you’re riding, pay attention to the following:
- Engine: it should pull smoothly, without rattles, smoke or hesitation.
- Gearbox and clutch: gears should change cleanly, with no slipping or jumping out of gear.
- Steering and handling: the bike should track straight and feel stable, with no wobble or pull to one side.
- Brakes: they should stop the bike evenly and without judder or squealing.
- Comfort: check that the seat, controls and riding position suit you, because a bike that doesn’t fit you won’t be enjoyable, however good the price.
Make sure you have the right licence and insurance in place before you ride, as a seller will need to be sure of that too.
Used Motorcycles for Sale near Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Colchester
If you’d rather not worry about buying privately, a dealer can take much of the guesswork out of the process. At Mototechniks, we’re a motorcycle centre just off the A14 in Stowmarket, with a changing range of used motorcycles for sale to riders across East Anglia, including Ipswich, Bury St Edmunds and Colchester.
Take a look at our used motorcycles online, then come and see the bikes in person, or call us on 01449 775 775 to ask about a particular bike.
Our team is always happy to talk you through the options, and our workshop can explain what a particular model needs in servicing and MOTs once you own it.
