Total Motorcycle Community Forums

Hey all. So I'm finally in the process of buying my first bike. I'm looking for something under 3 grand, hopefully a late 90's model standard or sport bike. I know most of the things to look for when buying a used bike (straight frame, tires, suspension, bearings, etc.) but how do you really check for rust in the tank? When you open the gas cap will you be able to see rust flecks floating? And if there is rust in the tank, is this a deal breaker? Do you need a whole new tank or can you drain it, re-seal it or something, and its good to go? Just wondering and I know you guys will know so, thanks in advance!

Some bikes will have clear tubes running from the tank to the carbs but more likely you would need to possibly take out the petcock and/or the fuel filter and check for specks of rust/sediment to know for sure.