Purchasing a Bike

Purchasing a Bike

I am thinking of purchasing a 2003 Honda Shadow w/ 4400 miles. the only concern is that it has been sitting for a year. Am told it starts & runs great & has new battery. When i go to look at it, what do I need to look for mechanically?

Comments for
Purchasing a Bike

Click here to add your own comments

Sep 03, 2010

Mechanics
by: Helen Wheels

I hate to make this expensive for you but to protect yourself and your investment you really should get a certified mechanic to look at it and do a compression test as well as a safety inspection. It cost me about $100 CAD and was worth the peace of mind I received in knowing that my Shadow is in good shape and will not kill/maim me or leave me on the side of the road dreading a tow truck bill (which probably would cost more than $100).

Sep 02, 2010

My First Bike
by: Anonymous

I just purchased my first bike and took my husband with me so he could check it out and take it for a test drive. I don't know much about bike mechanics but have learned to look for oil leaks which is easy to detect. Recommend taking someone with you who knows what to look for. Also, take your time and look around. It took me about 6 months to buy my bike and the more you look the more prepared and educated you become. You'll know when you find the right bike and within your budget. Good luck.

Aug 27, 2010

Google Search
by: Sandra

Before You Buy a Used Motorcycle
By Basem Wasef, About.com Guide

I googled "how to ride a motorcycle" before getting licensed and found Basem Wasef at About.com; he writes TONS of motorcycle articles, and has a good checklist for novices on what to look for.

There are a ton of sites I just came up with, but reading some of the checklists, I felt like I needed to go to school to learn what they were talking about - and maybe I do! - but choose what makes sense to you...

Buying a used bike should be more than a "heart" decision where you look at the bike, get caught up in the thrill, buy a real "looker" and find it has serious mechanical issues.

Best of luck to you!

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Ask (or answer) a Question

Community

General Users Forum User Bike Pics Your Bikes Helmet Hair Bike Questions Motorcycle Advice Why Ride Motorcycle Events & Rallies Biker Rally Pics Favourite Roads Riding 2 Up Deals Gap Motorcycle Friendly Resorts

Just Ride!

Learn to Ride Best Bikes Sport/Touring Bikes New Bikes Bike Values Insurance All About Roads Great Roads Commuting Night Riding

Seeing the World

Touring Long Distances Camping Trips

Gear & Gadgets

Apparel Motorcycle Gear Helmet Stuff Motorcycle Gadgets Luggage Trailers Comfy Seats

Motorcycle Articles

Guest Articles Tips for Lowering Your Insurance Premiums Organizations Safety History Security Maintenance

womens motorcycle at Bizrate

Bizrate

Subscribe To This Site

Return to Top

Purchasing a Bike

Comments for Purchasing a Bike

Comments for
Purchasing a Bike