What to look at in a used bike?

[Lisa]

I'm looking at buying a used bike, ideally i'd prefer that it was certified before I bought it, but besides that what should I be looking at to make sure it's mechanically sound? I'd rather not buy a lemon to ride (I don't have anything against yellow, I just want it to go when I want to go and stop with the rider side up when i want to stop). what sort of things should i look for besides obviously tire wear?

[shane-o]

Cosmetic stuff
Brake pads
Look for rust
Look for anything loose
Check the chain n sprockets
Lift the seat off and have a look
Check electrics, indicators lights brake n tail lights
Look for anything that doesnt seem to belong

Ride it, how does it handle?
Attention to;

Brakes
clutch
steering
Gears

How comfortable it is, what the seat like.
Have a look at the current suspension settings.

Ask if any mods have been made, what are they, where are the documents to say they have been bought and installed (i keep all documents relating to any mods i do or make)


Look for signs of "hitting the deck" Scrapes on the pipes, on the bar ends, indicators not sitting right, brake n clutch levers bent or out of shape, any dents in the tank, damage to fariing / front fender.

You need a Roadworthy cert, proof of service history, ownership papers, you want the vin number and the reg numbers to security check.


Ask them not to have the bike warm before you get there you want to cold start it.


Ask them directly about any work that has been done on the bike especially engine n box, and if so, where is the documentation to prove that.


etc etc etc etc


Good 1st assessment of a potential bike might take you an hour or more just to have a quick look


Oh and anyone who is honest will not mind you taking it to an approved mechanic to have a check just before you committ to buy.

[Magna]

Rust in the gas tank, it's a biggy. A friend of mine bought a vintage BMW and 2 weeks later discovered rust in the tank. 2 months later he was able to find a clean used tank and he is riding it. They were not able to get the rust out of the original tank.