Buying A Motorcycle That Has Been Sitting
Buying a motorcycle that has been sitting for a while can be scary. You never know what kind of condition the bike is in until you start it up, and there's always a chance that it won't start at all. However, if you know what to look for and are willing to put in the time and effort, buying a motorcycle that has been sitting can be a great way to save money.
Inspecting The Bike
The first step in buying a motorcycle that has been sitting is to inspect the bike. Look for any signs of damage, rust, or corrosion. Check the tires, brakes, chain, and sprockets for wear and tear. If the bike has been sitting outside, make sure to check for any signs of weather damage, such as fading or cracking of the paint.
Next, check the fluid levels. This includes the oil, brake fluid, and coolant. If the fluid levels are low or the fluids are dirty, this could be a sign that the bike has been sitting for a long time and hasn't been properly maintained.
Finally, check the battery. If the bike has been sitting for a while, the battery may be dead or low on charge. You can use a multimeter to test the battery voltage. If the voltage is low, you may need to replace the battery.
Starting The Bike
Once you've inspected the bike, it's time to try and start it up. If the bike has been sitting for a while, it may take some effort to get it started. First, make sure the fuel tank is full and the fuel is fresh. Old fuel can cause the bike to run poorly or not at all.
If the bike has an electric starter, try starting it up. If it doesn't start right away, you may need to charge the battery or jump-start the bike. If the bike has a kickstarter, you'll need to give it a few solid kicks to get it started.
Fixing The Bike
If the bike doesn't start or runs poorly, you may need to do some repairs. This could include changing the oil, replacing the spark plugs, or cleaning the carburetor. If you're not comfortable doing the repairs yourself, you may need to take the bike to a mechanic.
Keep in mind that fixing a bike can be expensive, so be prepared to spend some money if you need to do repairs. However, if you're willing to put in the time and effort, buying a motorcycle that has been sitting can be a great way to save money and get a great bike.
Conclusion
Buying a motorcycle that has been sitting can be a bit of a gamble, but if you know what to look for and are willing to put in the time and effort, it can be a great way to save money. Make sure to inspect the bike thoroughly, check the fluid levels and battery, and try to start the bike up before you buy it. If you need to do repairs, be prepared to spend some money. With a little bit of work, you can get a great bike at a great price.