Whats the easiest way to go about purchasing a used sports bike?

Question

I would like to buy an older sports bike, like an 04-06 *****, SV, or maybe even CBR but how will I know I am getting the best deal and what are some key things I should take note of, ie: mileage and whatever else goes along with a sports bike

Answer 1

find someone that knows the sport and who is an adult. take them with you so they can check it out always ride the bike to be sure the tranny is ok . I always tell the person I am buying from to make sure the bike is cold when i get there. If it has been warmed up it can hide some things from you. pull the side fairings off look for any damage. Make sure you get the manual and the tool kit. why people keep these is beyond me. don't by a track bike. check all the controls and levers for scratches and scuffs ask them if it has ever been down before. I was looking at bikes this past summer and asked if the bike had been dropped and the guy said no when i got there the mirror and shift lever showed rash. the dumb *** said the guy before him dropped it . I was not happy and it took real control not to slap the taste out of his mouth I drove 90 miles to look. Just make sure you write a list of questions before you go and find someone you can trust, make sure they are mechanically inclined and have the knowledge and not some wanna be rider If you live around atlanta I would help you . I have been in the sport for 30 +

Answer 2

You need at least a class M permit, but you should take Riders Ed before anything to get a licenses and proper instruction.
Next Step:
How many cc's do you want is the first thing. The CBR and the SV are different kind of bikes.
The SV is more standard than a CBR. The CBR is more of a street sports bike.

Next:
Checking the history on the Vin number. This shows you if the bike as ever been dropped or in an accident.

You want to check the mileage, it gives you an idea on how much the bike as been used. Go to Kelly Blue Book.com and check the value of the bike in the condition you are buying it.
If you are not buying from a dealership make sure the paperwork is right. Same Vin on everything including: title, bill of sale, ask your insurance carrier what papers you should have it varies state to state.
If you are buying a bike from the dealership, negotiate the price, they can always go lower.
But before you commit to anything..
Shop around and compare prices !

Answer 3

Most of the sport bikes of similar displacement perform and handle almost equally. Decide how big of a bike you want and if you want a twin with torque or an inline 4 with high end power and test ride a bike that matches that. Be cautious if the bike you test ride has been warmed up for you, they may be trying to hide something...

Answer 4

On any sport bike check around steering head for cracks. Almost all sportbikes have been wheelied, but if it looks 'stunted' leave it as it usually destroys crankshaft. (ask how easy it does wheelies) Best bet would be a shop that will give a limited warranty, but thats not the cheapest option. If buying private you have to check out the seller as much as the bike, particularly if 'selling for a friend, son, etc'

Answer 5

Check the Quokka or Ebay. Registration 2 Ebay is free, and normally items are cheaper. Some of the items in the Quokka are free, and Ebay members sometimes use a pickup only policy, so that could cut postage. Also try auto trader.

Answer 6

I would take a good look at the previous owner. I would tend to be leery of a young guy. I would suspect that he'd probably beaten it.

At a dealership you won't be able to do that.

I would probably take along someone who knows about bikes, who would recognize signs of extensive repair work.

Answer 7

I am not sure where you are, but try craigslist.com. Its basically like the greensheet just online. You can sell stuff on there for free as well.

Answer 8

With Hondas watch for valve train problems.

Answer 9

make sure you take it for a test ride before you buy it

Answer 10

have plenty of money