Buying A Motorbike

This article probably isn't going to be that useful for experienced riders but for the first time buyer we hope that some of the advice we offer will come in useful.

Insurance
Well you wouldn't be on this site if you weren't looking for insurance. Bike insurance is very similar to car insurance, please bare in mind that you can't use your NCB on a car and bike at the same time, doing so could invalidate both of your policies. It's also a good idea to ensure your have some personal injury insurance because the chances of being seriously injured on a bike are considerably higher than being in a car.

Safety Equipment
Its not the most glamorous of topics but is perhaps even more important than the bike itself. If you're happy to ride around in jeans and a t-shirt this article probably isn't going to affect you but for first time riders it's important to know that your safety equipment could save your life in an accident. Please don't scrimp on this equipment, you tend to get what you pay for when it comes to helmets and jackets so budget a decent amount into the equation.

Security
Bikes can be incredibly easy to steal if you don't take some kind of security measures. A bicycle chain just won't cut it, in fact if possible it's a good idea to lock it away in a garage. You can buy housings with a slide out tray to house your bike in which many insurers will count as good as being garaged, think about it.

If nothing else make sure that you get a proper bike chain from a motorcycle shop, they tend to be heavy duty and will put off casual thieves.

The Bike
When you go to look at a bike there are a few things you should keep and eye out for:-

1) Has it been dropped?

Check for scuffs and scratches around the body to see if it's been dropped, if it has then you need to make sure that nothing was damaged, even a drop from a small height can crack critical parts

2) Is it the right size for you?

If you've got them, take your leathers with you and sit on the bike with them on. You'd be amazed at how different it can feel.

3) Does it start properly?

Ideally you should be able to see it being started from cold, this can show you whether there are any significant problems.

4) Get an HPI check

If you buy a bike that is stolen or still on credit then you have no legal ownership of it because the seller does not technically own it. Paying for an HPI check will show you whether the bike is stolen, written off or still under credit.