Buying a Bike - Mechanical Checks

When buying a second hand bike it is very important that you have a good look over the engine to check for any costly faults. The best option is to take a mechanic with you to view the bike as they can pick up faults that you might miss and save you a lot of money in the long run. If this isn't an option then by carrying out the few very simple checks below could end up saving you money.

Water - The first check to make and one of the most simplest on the majority of bikes is to check the coolant in the bike. The water level should be filled to the maximum, if its not then it could show that the bike has a water leak and is not very well looked after. This shouldn't be a case for discounting the bike straight away it just means that more care and attention should be paid to the rest of the bike checks as it could just be an oversight from the owner. Checking the water level on sports bikes can be a little tricky. Bikes such as the Triumph Daytona 600 need t have the fairing removed to get access to the radiator, be sure to take along a small tool kit or ask the seller.

Oil - Checking the oil may seem like a very basic check but insufficient oil can damage the engine. If the oil level is low then check for leaks underneath the bike and ask the owner for an explanation, it may just be a simple oversight. Also check around the engine for excess oil as this can show that the bike is leaking oil when hot, which can pose a big problem within the working of the engine.

Gears - If possible sit on the bike and check that all the gears work, pull in the clutch and cycle through all the gears. Make sure that all the gears on the bike work in a smooth fashion.

Chain - Always check the chain on a bike, loose chains can be a hazard that often results in accident and increased bike insurance premiums. The chain should only have between one and two inches of play in it depending on what bike you are looking at. Also check that the chain is well lubricated as a dry chain can be dangerous an points towards little care being taken for the bike.

Sprockets - Check that the sprockets are not excessively warn as this can cause slipping of the chain and greatly increase the risk of accident. These sprockets should also be well lubricated.

leaks - If at all possible view the bike where it is kept overnight, this can show the prospectus buyer of any leak problems highlighted by oil or water patches on the garage floor.

Brake Fluid - Check the brake fluid levels on the bike, the levels are easy to check in the front and rear reservoirs located on the handel bars and on the side of the bike. Low fluid can be dangerous resulting in accident and increased bike insurance premiums. It also suggests that the bike may have been neglected.

Brakes - Have a good look at the brake pads and discs, check for excessive rust and wear to the pads as this can cost you a tidy sum. If the brakes are in need to be replaced this can be a good marketing tool to get money off the full price of the bike. Another good check is to test the bikes brakes by sitting on the machine and rolling the bike forwards, applying the bakes and making sure they stop the bike properly, carry out this procedure for both the front and rear brakes. If the brakes struggle to stop the bike at this speed or are very noisy then how are they going to stop the bike at higher speeds?

Exhaust - Check that the exhaust looks in good condition with no rust or damage as exhausts are also a good place to look to show up any signs of accident damage. If the exhaust is an aftermarket exhaust check that it is road legal as illegal exhausts can result inn fixed fines and penalty points. Also remember that aftermarket exhausts must be disclosed to your bike insurance company and can effect your bike insurance premium.

Lights - Finally check all the lights work on the bike, take each light in turn and check that they work in the manor they are meant to. If any of the lights are faulty check the bulb because it could be as simple as a bulb or fuse, if not you could be looking at a costly electrical bill. Also check the warning lights come on when you turn on the ignition of the bike, some dealers and private sellers have been known to remove warning bulbs to disguise the fact that the bike has a significant problem.

Obviously without the aid of a mechanic it can be difficult to identify more complex problems with the bike but by following the few simple checks outlined in this article you can reduce the chance of inheriting on going problems with a new bike.