Help for Buying a used bike.

[JasunZ]

Hi Bro,

 

I got my 2B and planning to buy a 2nd bike first while waiting to take my 2A.

 

I have a bike in mind from a seller. In this case when im buying direct, what is the procedure like? I really need to know what forms, procedures and hidden cost estimation. Hope to get ur advice.

 

I had searched through the forum to find out what too look out for to determine if the bike is good etc. But cant seem to find a guide about buying a bike direct from another owner. I know there is a transfer fee involved.

 

Please advise...

 

Thanks!

Jason

[Pandoras Kitten 3]

If you like the bike and seller is honest, just go buy insurance one day, get the cert and meet up at LTA Sin Ming to do the transfer.

 

That is, assuming the seller is your friend or an easygoing sort.

 

Usually I take it a bit more seriously, and screen the seller first (check out his other posts on forum because some are re-sellers, not riders/owners, and seek to turn a profit over someone elses' used bike)

If seller's post history is satisfactory I will arrange "first appointment" to gauge machine's mechanical condition. I will start the engine and test ride it - better safe than sorry. I will also inspect the settings of the bike. Some like performance tuning I will not say a word (trade secret), others like suspension, tyre pressure etc I don't really tolerate any misalignment or rust at critical areas. If the seller is nervous about test riding, then something is obviously VERY wrong.

If need be I will write out a list of things to be serviced and pass the cost to the seller, to ensure I get a roadworthy bike.

Second appointment - after servicing (where applicable), details of the transfer will be worked out - who pays transfer fee, etc.

 

then only go buy insurance and go LTA.

 

 

You can also simplify the process by letting bike shop do the paperwork, but that takes a week or more. DIY better, just take one day leave, but do your homework first. Insurance cert (buy against bike no to be bought) must be on hand before transfer can be done at LTA.

[vietkong]

To list down what to look for in a bike you wish to purchase can be quite lengthy and sometimes even subjective. What i consider wear & tear may very well be sth you are not willing to spend the extra cash on. So, for this part, perhaps you can get tips from other bikers on what they look for and just form your own as you gain experience in this area.

 

Once you decided on your toy, come to an agreement with the seller on the price and other nitty gritty. The seller will most likely require a deposit from you, which is quite normal but be sure to have it recorded down in black & white.

 

Second, prepare the following details, some of which is obtainable from the seller: 1) Engine number; 2) Chassis number; 3) Make and model; 4) Year of registration; 5) Engine capacity; 6) Whether bike has fairing or not; 7) Details of your sub-rider if you want one. These info is to purchase insurance for the vehicle so do your shopping and decide on your preferred insurer.

 

Next, arrange a date with the seller to have the vehicle transferred to your name at LTA. Usually, buyers pay for transfer fees but I have come across cases where the sellers "absorbs" it. Bring along your NRIC and insurance cert. Don't think they need your driving licence but bring it along just in case.

[bradneo]

 

Second, prepare the following details, some of which is obtainable from the seller: 1) Engine number; 2) Chassis number; 3) Make and model; 4) Year of registration; 5) Engine capacity; 6) Whether bike has fairing or not; 7) Details of your sub-rider if you want one. These info is to purchase insurance for the vehicle so do your shopping and decide on your preferred insurer.

 

 

If the seller can provide you a copy of the bike's log card, that will have all the information needed for buying the insurance.