Looking at a new bike tomorrow

[Jagermiss]

Not exactly sure what I should be looking for when buying a new bike, I'm hardly certain on all the mechanic side of everything so could do with a check list or something.
The bikes are Yamaha sr 125 y reg with t and t for £600

[Pete.]

There are numerous check-lists posted here for novice buyers, but you can't beat taking someone along who knows their way around a bike. Fundamentally if it starts easily from cold and soon settles to a nice idle it probably has a good engine. Just remember that tyres, brakes, forks, shocks and chain all cost money that will have to be added on to the purchase cost if they are in need of changing. It's not going to be perfect being a 13yr old 125 but be critical of anything you think doesn't look right. Be especially mindful of the fact that spit and polish can only cover up a rough bike so far so try to look past shiny paint and view the bike as a mechanical device.

For £600 a 2001 bike needs to be in very nice nick IMO. Original paint, not re-sprayed one colour with rattle-cans and the chrome stuff done in wheel silver.
____________________
a.k.a 'Geri'

132.9mph off and walked away. Gear is good, gear is good, gear is very very good

[Az]

Start it from cold (may need choke, which is normal) - listen out for any odd noises, bangs or rattles that don't sound normal

Take it for a test ride, go through all the gears and can it in every gear. Make sure you rev it through out the whole rev range, look out for any flat spots while you're going through the revs.

Check consumables and make sure there's no excessive wear (Chain + Sprockets, Tyres, Brake Pads) When checking brake pads, check the brake fluid level and shine a torch down the calliper to get an idea of how much meat is left on the pads. Don't actually take the pads out.

If you can, have a look at the spark plug, check it's condition. It will give you a good idea if the bike is running as it should. Clicky

If the bike has a centre stand, whack it up in the centre stand. Turn the handlebars full lock from right to left and see if there are any tight notches in the steering. Also, if you can be arsed check if the wheel bearings need replacing Clicky.

Then look at the condition of the fork seals. Sit on the bike, front brakes on, push the forks up and down. Then check and see if the fork seals are leaking.

[Jagermiss]

Thanks for all the info, will definitely be taking this into account, but surely I won't be insured for a test ride? Also as everywhere near me is mostly 20s i can't really can it without going far away or speeding, and I'm not exactly confident enough to be doing that.

[Az]

[Tamsin]

if something doesn't seem right, walk away. 125s are common as muck - no point in risky spending...