Buying a motorcycle can end up being pricey. Luckily, you can save quite a bit by purchasing a used motorcycle. This, however, also means you'll have to be more observant when making your purchase.

What to Look at When Purchasing a Used Motorcycle

So, you really want a motorcycle but don't have enough to buy a new one. If this is the case, buying a used one can be just as great while helping you save some money. Of course, buying used means the motorcycle will have some wear and tear. This means you'll have to be very careful when making your final purchase. To help you thoroughly inspect your options, use these tips from Advanced Filtration Technologies, Inc.

Buying Options

If you've decided to purchase a used motorcycle, you'll have a couple of different options when it comes to deciding on a seller. You can either buy your motorcycle from a dealer or a private seller. Each option has its pros but also some cons, so consider each option carefully before deciding what route to take. If you decide to buy from a dealership, this can be a more pricey option but it also comes with more peace of mind. For starters, you won't have to worry about whether the bike was stolen or is legally being sold. There are also laws that will protect you from purchasing a lemon, so you won't have to worry too much about the condition of the bike. If you choose to buy through a private seller, you may end up paying less for your motorcycle. Of course, this also comes with its cons, including not knowing exactly what condition the motorcycle is in. A seller may be trying to get the best of you by concealing issues the motorcycle has. You also have to be super careful when ensuring the motorcycle isn't stolen because buying a stolen bike won't result in anything good for you.

Why You Need to Inspect the Motorcycle Cold

Before deciding to throw your money at a motorcycle, you will have to inspect it in order to be sure it's still in good condition. Before you get to work on this, make sure the motorcycle is cold. If needed, call the seller ahead of time to let them know that you want to see the motorcycle cold. The reason this is so important is because it will allow you to see what condition the engine is really in. If the engine has been warmed up before your arrival, even a motorcycle with starting issues will have a much easier time starting. It's also important that you listen to the motor right after starting it. A noisy engine will often stop making noise when warm, so you'll want to listen to it start on a cold start.

Check the Motorcycle's Engine

Speaking of the engine, it's super important that you inspect this part thoroughly. If the engine isn't in good shape, the motorcycle won't be worth your investment. On top of a cold start, ask if you can take the motorcycle for a test ride. While on a test ride, listen to the engine and feel how smooth the gear changes are. These will be other indicators that will help you decide if the motorcycle is what you want. Once you have your motorcycle, keep its engine in great shape with the help of a synthetic oil change in Williston. An oil like AMSOIL's 20W-50 Synthetic V-Twin Motorcycle Oil can keep your motorcycle performing at its best for longer. If you want to learn more about the benefits of using synthetic oil, contact the friendly oil pros at Advanced Filtration Technologies, Inc at (701) 572- 3780.

Check the Frame

Finally, you'll want to look at the bike's frame. In general, the frame should be straight and everything should be sitting on it properly and not skewed. Get a closer look at it and keep an eye out for signs of wear and damage. A bit of wear will be normal but lots of scratches, dents, scrapes, or cracks will let you know that bike hasn't been well taken care of. It's important that you keep in mind that a seller can give their motorcycle a quick wash to make it look nice, but if the motorcycle hasn't been properly maintained through the years, this will show on closer inspection.

Keep Your Motorcycle Running Strong With a Synthetic Oil Change in Williston, ND

Keep your motorcycle performing at its best with the help of a synthetic oil change in Williston, ND. If you've never used synthetic oil before, you can learn all about its benefits by contacting the friendly oil pros at Advanced Filtration Technologies, Inc. by calling (701) 572- 3780.