2nd hand bikes

dean · Guest

hi, i'm looking to buy a second hand bike.
so just wondering what kinds of things should i look out for when looking at second hand buys? right now looking into 400 - 600cc bikes.
I've looked at various bike ezines (mcn, etc) but couldnt find anything on this particular topic. appreciate any advice u can offer. thankyou.

Demonic69 · The Pink Rhino Joined: 31 May 2002 Karma :

We're always going on about 400's and 600's. And everything else 4 that matter:)

How much are you looking to spend? How tall are you? Is your licence restricted? How old are you? How long would you be looking to keep he bike?
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MarsBar · World Chat Champion Joined: 21 Aug 2002 Karma :

I would reccommend.....

400cc - Kawasaki ZXR400

600cc - Suzuki GSXR600

Depends on ya budget m8!! Both great bikes.

TiN · Pocket Tin Joined: 14 Feb 2002 Karma :

Yeah, wot Demonic said...

...it's all down to your personal situation...it would also be useful if you told us what your main use of the bike would be? (e.g. commuting, touring, track days etc...?)
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dotgems.net

dean · Guest

Well my situation, well i passed my das almost a year ago, had my gxr600 nicked soon after, so haven't had a bike since, I cant afford a new bike, so thats why i am settling for a secondhand one.
i would mainly be using it to get to work, and the odd road burn up Wink

ummm... oh i am 24 and 5'8... never bought a secondhand bike before, i know i need to make sure the engine is in good nick and the body work, but wondering if there is anything else i should really be looking for (i.e. specific paper work, or something like that??)?
thanks.

zaknafien · Joined: 25 Mar 2002 Karma :

Phoenix · Twisted Firestarter Joined: 01 Aug 2002 Karma :

Its not just the engine you need to check on a 2nd hand bike, take someone experienced with you if you can, there's things like forks, swingarm, suspension C&S etc... all need checking.

Paperwork wise, idealy you want to buy a bike with a Full Service History (FSH), if thats not possible, make sure the seller has the current MOT Cert and preferably at least 1 previous one. If it's alarmed, you need the alarm installation certificate and other relavent documentation. He will always have the registration documents, if he doesn't...run. Make sure you leave with the green part after you've bought the bike (as proof of purchase).

When it comes to MOT and Tax you can knock a good few quid off if it's up for renewal very soon. Best tip is just don't rush into buying something you're not 100% sure on.