Help & FAQs    Search BCF    Members    Groups    Events Calendar
Resend my activation email : Register : Log in 
BCF: Bike Chat Forums


Which first bike to buy?

 Reply to topic
Bike Chat Forums Index -> New Bikers Goto page Previous  1, 2
View previous topic : View next topic  
Author Message

Easy-X
Super Spammer



Joined: 08 Mar 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 17:47 - 28 Nov 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Honda Rebel: welcome to munchkin mobility Smile
____________________
Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, Yamaha XSR700, Honda Rebel, Yamaha DT175, Suzuki SV650 (loan) Fazer 600, Keeway Superlight 125, 50cc turd scooter
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 22:15 - 01 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
I ended up buying a Kawasaki ER-6F ABS 2008 with 21000 miles on the clock for £1600. Bike looked in good condition and a lot of tread left on the tyres. I will be getting it on Thursday.

I am having to pay £650 for TPFT insurance for now Sad with a £350 excess as I am leaving it on the drive.

The last service was in 2018 and the bike only did 400 miles since last service. Do I need another service now? Or there is a recommended number of miles for the service?

Last edited by sapstar on 11:33 - 02 Dec 2019; edited 1 time in total
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

NJD
World Chat Champion



Joined: 11 Mar 2015
Karma :
PostPosted: 22:57 - 01 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
sapstar wrote:
The last service was in 2008 and the bike only did 400 miles since last service. Do I need another service now? Or there is a recommended number of miles for the service?


11 years since 08, and that's around 36 miles per year at best since then. I wouldn't ask "if" it needs servicing but rather "how much" servicing it will need.

You'll want to look at the production codes on the tyres rather than the tread: the four digit date code will tell you how old they are. I'd look for cracks and flat spots (probably just been stored on its tyres on the sidestand).

I'd give all the fluids a change and all the cables a lubrication. Its cold as awt outside, and so if you may be looking at much labour costs at a local garage at this time of year.

Presumably you did that test ride before buying?
____________________
The do it all, T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶r̶o̶k̶e̶n̶ ̶o̶n̶e̶,̶ ̶T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶i̶g̶ ̶l̶u̶m̶p̶,̶ ̶C̶h̶o̶n̶g̶ ̶N̶o̶o̶d̶l̶e̶
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts
AldridgePrior This post is not being displayed because the poster is banned. Unhide this post / all posts.

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 07:30 - 02 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
NJD wrote:


11 years since 08, and that's around 36 miles per year at best since then. I wouldn't ask "if" it needs servicing but rather "how much" servicing it will need.

You'll want to look at the production codes on the tyres rather than the tread: the four digit date code will tell you how old they are. I'd look for cracks and flat spots (probably just been stored on its tyres on the sidestand).

I'd give all the fluids a change and all the cables a lubrication. Its cold as awt outside, and so if you may be looking at much labour costs at a local garage at this time of year.

Presumably you did that test ride before buying?

Sorry my bad. That's 400 miles from last service in 2018. On average since 2008, it did 2000 miles an year. Not bad is it? I have seen many bikes on autotrader listed with this kind of mileage.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 07:32 - 02 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
AldridgePrior wrote:
Edit*. If you’ve mistyped that date and the bike was last serviced in 2018 then it’s needing nothing but a check over, your hoop on the seat and some petrol.


Sorry it was a mistype. I meant 2018 Smile.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Easy-X
Super Spammer



Joined: 08 Mar 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 10:29 - 02 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
2000 miles a year is probably less than half the average bike does a year. If it is spread evenly then no problem, great find. The tendency is though for a bike with that sort of mileage to have "taken a break" for a year or so then it's all about how well it was treated after coming out of hibernation.

Did you buy privately or from a trader?
____________________
Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, Yamaha XSR700, Honda Rebel, Yamaha DT175, Suzuki SV650 (loan) Fazer 600, Keeway Superlight 125, 50cc turd scooter
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 11:24 - 02 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Easy-X wrote:
2000 miles a year is probably less than half the average bike does a year. If it is spread evenly then no problem, great find. The tendency is though for a bike with that sort of mileage to have "taken a break" for a year or so then it's all about how well it was treated after coming out of hibernation.

Did you buy privately or from a trader?

I checked the mileage history and the mileage is not spread very evenly. But There was a major service done in 2018 where it looks like lot of consumables were replaced. Hoping this will be a good find for my first bike.

I bought it privately. The bike is currently on SORN and I am not insured, so didn't ride it. But it starts fine and there are no rattles or noices I can hear.

This is the mileage distribution on HPI check.

21,101 miles on 12/07/2019
19,565 miles on 04/07/2018
16,768 miles on 06/01/2017
16,765 miles on 05/10/2016
14,150 miles on 17/09/2014
11,844 miles on 14/05/2013
10,551 miles on 14/11/2011
4,000 miles on 15/01/2010
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

seeyalater
Trackday Trickster



Joined: 15 Sep 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 12:18 - 02 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Well done.. i passed recently too.
I looked at a zzr600 and i found that low and ideal for a shorter guy, cheap insurance and nippy at 100hp. I ended up with a 650 bandit and love it, heavier and seating is higher, adjustable though im told and very cheap insurance.
Also looked at a YFR Thundercat, looks like they sit low and insurance good too.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

NJD
World Chat Champion



Joined: 11 Mar 2015
Karma :
PostPosted: 00:01 - 03 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
sapstar wrote:

21,101 miles on 12/07/2019
19,565 miles on 04/07/2018


16,768 miles on 06/01/2017
16,765 miles on 05/10/2016
14,150 miles on 17/09/2014


Lower part is where the gap will be: wasn't M.O.T'd for just over two years, and then only covered one mile when it was M.O.T'd just a year later which is quite interesting.

You can put the reg through the M.O.T history to see what the last mileage was, but I assume the mileage the HPI is giving you may work of the M.O.T database?

If what's on the clocks now is 21,101 (or close) then it hasn't been ridden much in the last year.

Paperwork showing you that the last service was in 2018 is a good basis, but being two years on I'd replace the air filter, plugs, engine oil and overhaul the brake calipers with new seals -- then giving you chance to do the fluid as well.

Little jobs like lubricating any cables, shift lever pivot point, rear brake pedal and clutch and brake lever pivot points will make riding it smoother too.

Not sure how hard the battery is to get to but I'd remove it if you're going to leave the bike sitting outside (negative first - ; and then the positive +: postie + first to install and then the negative) over winter for a period of time.
____________________
The do it all, T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶r̶o̶k̶e̶n̶ ̶o̶n̶e̶,̶ ̶T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶i̶g̶ ̶l̶u̶m̶p̶,̶ ̶C̶h̶o̶n̶g̶ ̶N̶o̶o̶d̶l̶e̶
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 08:00 - 03 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Thanks for all the info @NJD. I will get a service just to be sure. I don't think I can remove the battery as the bike has an alarm/immobiliser for which I think it needs the battery.

PS: The bike should be in continuous use though as I plan to use it for commute.

Last edited by sapstar on 10:44 - 03 Dec 2019; edited 1 time in total
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Easy-X
Super Spammer



Joined: 08 Mar 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 10:42 - 03 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Batteries don't last forever! However, there may be a procedure to reset the alarm after swapping a battery. You might want to see if you can contact the alarm manufacturer for instructions.
____________________
Husqvarna Vitpilen 401, Yamaha XSR700, Honda Rebel, Yamaha DT175, Suzuki SV650 (loan) Fazer 600, Keeway Superlight 125, 50cc turd scooter
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 10:46 - 03 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Easy-X wrote:
Batteries don't last forever! However, there may be a procedure to reset the alarm after swapping a battery. You might want to see if you can contact the alarm manufacturer for instructions.

I think it is the factory fitted immobiliser and alarm on this bike. I will check the manual to see if there is some information on what to do on replacing the battery. I also have a car battery tester. I will check the condition of the battery when I get it to make sure its healthy.
I also have a battery charger which I can use every now and then to make sure battery is not drained completely.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Nobby the Bastard
Harley Gaydar



Joined: 16 Aug 2013
Karma :
PostPosted: 13:51 - 03 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
NJD wrote:
sapstar wrote:

21,101 miles on 12/07/2019
19,565 miles on 04/07/2018


16,768 miles on 06/01/2017
16,765 miles on 05/10/2016
14,150 miles on 17/09/2014


Lower part is where the gap will be: wasn't M.O.T'd for just over two years, and then only covered one mile when it was M.O.T'd just a year later which is quite interesting.



3 miles in 3 months. In winter. Probably sold to a dealer who then sold it on with a new mot.
____________________
trevor saxe-coburg-gotha:"Remember this simple rule - scooters are for men who like to feel the breeze on their huge, flapping cunt lips."
Sprint ST 1050
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 12:34 - 04 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Unfortunately the seller sent me a text saying the bike is not available anymore after agreeing a sale and arranging to be collected on Thursday... Now back to finding another bike. Have an appointment to view a 2015 ER-6N today.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

NJD
World Chat Champion



Joined: 11 Mar 2015
Karma :
PostPosted: 17:52 - 04 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
sapstar wrote:
I ended up buying a Kawasaki ER-6F ABS 2008


sapstar wrote:
Unfortunately the seller sent me a text saying the bike is not available anymore after agreeing a sale and arranging to be collected on Thursday...


But what about...

sapstar wrote:
I will be getting it on Thursday.


...?

Either you were dreaming, and wasting our time and advice, or the seller chose not to sell to you? Rolling Eyes
____________________
The do it all, T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶r̶o̶k̶e̶n̶ ̶o̶n̶e̶,̶ ̶T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶i̶g̶ ̶l̶u̶m̶p̶,̶ ̶C̶h̶o̶n̶g̶ ̶N̶o̶o̶d̶l̶e̶
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

Kentol750
World Chat Champion



Joined: 24 May 2016
Karma :
PostPosted: 22:17 - 04 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Being in an area where there are few bikes around, I'm not surprised you had to make an appointment!
____________________
Some bikes.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 23:30 - 04 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Basically I went and saw the bike on Sunday. Came home and done a hpi check and confirmed to the seller I will buy it. Agreement was to get the bike dropped to me. So we agreed Thursday. I got a text Tuesday saying the bike is sold to someone else.

I am actually glad this happened. I viewed a Kawasaki ER-6N 2015 with 29000 miles today and left a deposit for delivery on Friday Smile.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 11:15 - 08 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
Finally... Got my first motorbike Smile.
https://i.ibb.co/999X47D/20191207-150411.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/KhCjdqR/20191207-150400.jpg

Also got my "garage" ready Smile to bring down my insurance costs.

https://i.ibb.co/fnSv24H/20191207-132018.jpg
https://i.ibb.co/vhw44Y1/20191206-162138.jpg

I managed to get really cheap TPFT insurance from Carole Nash by getting a 6 wheel policy. This was just £96 more than what I pay for my car at the moment. The excess was quite low too at £100 for car and £150 for bike. Legal cover + Breakdown with at home cover also included.

Thanks very much for all the help you provided in getting my first bike sorted.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

NJD
World Chat Champion



Joined: 11 Mar 2015
Karma :
PostPosted: 18:37 - 08 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
I'd be interested to hear if the insurance company would classify that as a garage in the event of a home theft.

Interesting use of tight space. Be sure to grit the drive when it frosts over as it looks like a recipe for slipy slidy and then drop.

Looks like a pain in the arse to get in and out of, though. I'm sure you'll knock down / adapt whatever's needed over time.
____________________
The do it all, T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶r̶o̶k̶e̶n̶ ̶o̶n̶e̶,̶ ̶T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶i̶g̶ ̶l̶u̶m̶p̶,̶ ̶C̶h̶o̶n̶g̶ ̶N̶o̶o̶d̶l̶e̶
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

sapstar
Nova Slayer



Joined: 01 Oct 2019
Karma :
PostPosted: 20:35 - 08 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
NJD wrote:
I'd be interested to hear if the insurance company would classify that as a garage in the event of a home theft.

Interesting use of tight space. Be sure to grit the drive when it frosts over as it looks like a recipe for slipy slidy and then drop.

Looks like a pain in the arse to get in and out of, though. I'm sure you'll knock down / adapt whatever's needed over time.

Checked with a few insurance companies. Current one classified anything which is locked as a garage (wood, metal or brick). Another company said they classify it as a garage only if three walls are brick, concrete floor and a locked door. I think it meets all their requirements Smile. Initially I was going to get the metal box, but that was going to obscure a bit of my window and some insurance companies clarify it as a shed, which adds around £100 to £150 to the quote compared to garages.

Getting in was OK, but initially I struggled getting out as I have to swerve past the bay window. But I got it now and practiced it a few times yesterday. I can do it all day now. On the positive side, it will be a bit difficult for someone trying to steal it too.

Yes I have thought of the drive being slippery. Need to keep a few bags of grit handy.
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts

NJD
World Chat Champion



Joined: 11 Mar 2015
Karma :
PostPosted: 21:30 - 08 Dec 2019    Post subject: Reply with quote
sapstar wrote:
On the positive side, it will be a bit difficult for someone trying to steal it too.


Aye. The video of the MT07(?) attempted stolen while locked up under a cover on a drive that appeared on here a while back springs to mind.

Pain, but whatever it takes to keep it yours suppose.

Enjoy. Thumbs Up
____________________
The do it all, T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶r̶o̶k̶e̶n̶ ̶o̶n̶e̶,̶ ̶T̶h̶e̶ ̶b̶i̶g̶ ̶l̶u̶m̶p̶,̶ ̶C̶h̶o̶n̶g̶ ̶N̶o̶o̶d̶l̶e̶
 Back to top
View user's profile Send private message You must be logged in to rate posts
Old Thread Alert!

The last post was made 4 years, 141 days ago. Instead of replying here, would creating a new thread be more useful?
  Display posts from previous:   
This page may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if a visitor clicks through and makes a purchase. By clicking on an affiliate link, you accept that third-party cookies will be set.

Post new topic   Reply to topic    Bike Chat Forums Index -> New Bikers All times are GMT + 1 Hour
Goto page Previous  1, 2
Page 2 of 2

 
 You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot vote in polls in this forum
You cannot attach files in this forum
You cannot download files in this forum

Read the Terms of Use! - Powered by phpBB © phpBB Group
 
Debug Mode: ON - Server: birks (www) - Page Generation Time: 0.11 Sec - Server Load: 0.59 - MySQL Queries: 17 - Page Size: 127.03 Kb