Dave Sears Reviews The Buyers Guide to Purchasing a Pre-Owned Motorcycle
Owner of Alamo Cycle Plex Dave Sears Provides His Top Tips
Purchasing a motorcycle can be a costly and time-consuming endeavor; however, with the proper amount of research, you can be well on your way to selecting a bike of your own. For those new to the sport, experienced rider, and owner of Alamo Cycle Plex, Dave Sears, recommends purchasing a pre-owned bike. With an extensive range of models and brands, first-time riders can get a feel for what types of features they prefer. Sears provides a quick overview of what to look for when purchasing a pre-owned vehicle.
1. Know the Maintenance History
Before purchasing a bike, it is essential to first be aware of the vehicle’s maintenance history. While these bikes often come at a lower cost, it is also possible that the bike you are considering purchasing has undergone a significant amount of repairs. To avoid costly maintenance bills, Sears recommends asking the seller for service records or receipts. Likewise, obtain the bike’s VIN to assess any previous damage and ensure no there are no factory recalls.
2. Perform a Comprehensive Exterior Check
Start by examining the bike’s overall appearance. Are there any dents, scratches, or paint cover-ups that may indicate the bike has been in an accident? Sears recommends moving your hands up and down the frame to feel for any hidden cracks. Likewise, be sure to give a quick look underneath the bike for any hidden dents. Any signs of corrosion or rust often lead to performance issues down the line.
Once you have checked the integrity of the exterior, hop on the bike and be sure to check the breaks and suspension. Sears suggests taking a test ride to get a feel for the handling. The ride should be smooth with little to no noise when breaking.
3. Listen to the Engine
According to Dave Sears, it’s important to pay close attention to the sound of the bike’s engine as any rattling may be a sign of interior damage. Slowly take the bike for a spin while looking for signs of smoke from the exhaust. The sounds may differ depending on the type of motorcycle, so know what to expect before testing out various models.
4. Purchase From a Reputable Seller
While a low price may be enough to convince you of a sale, it’s vital that you purchase from a reputable seller to avoid a bad investment. Private sellers often sell at lower prices because they can’t offer any warranties or forms of consumer protection. However, purchasing from a prominent seller such as Dave Sears at Alamo Cycle Plex will help ensure you are getting what you pay for. With a wide selection of used power sport vehicles, they also offer several financing options.
5. Have a Professional Perform a Safety Check
A bike may appear to be in superior condition, but it’s important to have a licensed professional come and assess the bike before purchase. According to Dave Sears, safety should always be a top priority.
