What to look out for when buying bike.

[Sofakingpro]

Hi,

 

I am pretty new to the bike scene here having just got my 2B license a week back and I am thinking of buying a second hand bike from the forum here. But there are a few things I would like to know about buying a bike. Hopefully, y'all can help me out here.

 

I want to ask what is there to look out for when purchasing a new bike, like for example COE shouldn't be less than a certain period, bike price (I am thinking of getting a sports bike), mileage shouldn't exceed how much and every related.

 

Thanks in advance

[haoKR]

wad bike u haf in mind/u lyk ?

[Sofakingpro]

I am seriously considering Aprilia RS 125 and ride it until I get a class 2 license. I am also considering getting SP, CBR or KRR and ride it until I get a class 2A license. But I am leaning a lot more towards RS 125 side.

 

Thanks

[deckard]

look at the chain

 

if the chain is dry, say bye bye

if the chain is oily, means owner is a biker/bike lover.

[Sofakingpro]

Oh just one thing? Look at chains? Haha 0k but what if like comparing prices to COE and road tax and all?

[Hypocrites.Poseurs.Liars]

old thread but..

if you really love riding, i doubt u can stick with the rs till class 2 once you felt the difference of power between a 2b and 2a

[Dafanshu]

why looking at COE models... cheap but it gives you headache

[Pandoras Kitten 3]

One advice is that you don't have to worry so much. You will get the skills needed to pick out what's a good bike and what is not, in time.

 

However to best enjoy the bike purchase it's a must IMO, to do a lot of research on the specific make and model. Visit the RS125 SBF threads and if you ever get the chance, meet famous Aprilia riders such as @lacrimosae who are so well versed with the RS, can rebuild the whole machine himself.

 

How well versed with the bike do you have to be - try to challenge yourself to take notes, do google searches.

 

Read up too on basic motorcycle design and maintenence tips.

 

When it comes to actually buying the bike, and it's not firsthand, an inspection checklist comes in handy. Don't have one? Make one yourself based on what you know

 

Example:

 

I wrote a Honda Phantom wikipedia article and created a comprehensive inspection checklist for purchasers of old Phantoms

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_Phantom

 

The inspection thing might come in handy for you (as all bikes have similar basic components) and it's towards the bottom of the article. Disclaimer - article written in riders' point of view only.