Used Motorcycle Inspection Guide

Many motorcycle buyers are hesitant to take a look at a used model because they fear it will start to fall apart the moment that they drive off the lot. While it's true that some used motorcycles need to be sent to the scrapheap, many more of them are well maintained and have many miles left in them. The best way to tell if a used motorcycle is worth your time is with an inspection. Luckily, these tips from Windy City Motorcycle Company can help you make the most out of your inspection. 

Outer Appearance

While minor cosmetic damage such as dings and scratches can usually be painted over, they are also a good indicator of how frequently and how hard the used motorcycle has fallen in its past. We also recommend making sure that the front and rear wheels are properly aligned. If they’re not, that usually means that the motorcycle suffered a crash at some point. 

Maintenance Marks

A good way to tell whether a motorcycle has been properly maintained is to check the internal components. Misaligned or worn out components usually indicate a lack of proper maintenance. A list of parts to check includes but is not limited to nuts, bolts, valves, brakes, rotors, drain plugs, injectors, carburetors, tires, chains, and throttle bodies. 

Other Interior Components

During your inspection, take a close look at the fuel tank to make sure that it is free of discolored fuel and flaking metal. Don’t forget to take a look at the cooling system while you’re at it! Round off your inspection by checking the air filter and spark plug. Since these parts are fairly easy to replace, either of them being worn out usually indicates a lack of proper maintenance. 

Shop used motorcycles at Windy City Motorcycle Company. We have several dealership locations, including Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Chicago, Illinois, and Detroit, Michigan. We’re proud to serve areas like southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.