News DH Superbikes

Buying a used motorbike is exciting, but a few careful checks can save you a lot of money and trouble. Use this checklist whenever you view a bike, whether you buy from a dealer or a private seller. Take your time, take a torch, and do not be rushed.

Before you go

• Ask the seller for the registration number and look up the MOT history in advance. See our guide to checking MOT history.
• Ask whether the bike has any finance outstanding, and whether it has ever been in an accident.
• Decide your budget, including insurance, tax, gear and a reserve for servicing.
• Check you are licensed to ride it. See our guide to licence categories.
• View the bike in daylight and, if you can, when it is dry.

The paperwork

1. V5C logbook. Check the seller's name and address match, the registration, VIN and engine number match the bike, and the number of previous keepers looks sensible. Be wary if the seller does not have it.
2. MOT history. Check for failures, advisories and mileage that does not add up.
3. Vehicle history check. A paid check can show outstanding finance, theft markers and insurance write-offs. It is a small cost compared with the price of a bike.
4. Service history. Stamps or invoices from a specialist show a bike that has been looked after. Check the major services are done, and that they were done on time.

The bike itself

5. Look for crash damage. Check for scuffed bar ends, levers, footpegs, mirrors and fairings, and for bent or mismatched parts. Look at the frame and swingarm for cracks, welds or repairs.
6. Tyres. Check tread depth, cracks, age and even wear. See our tyre guide.
7. Brakes. Look at disc condition and pad thickness. The levers should feel firm and the bike should not feel spongy when you squeeze.
8. Chain and sprockets. Hooked, shiny or uneven teeth and a tight or rusty chain mean replacement is due. Our chain guide explains what good looks like.
9. Forks and shock. Look for oil on the fork legs and any leaks from the rear suspension.
10. Engine and exhaust. Ask for a cold start. Listen for rattles, check for smoke and look for leaks. Look at the exhaust for dents, rust and repairs.

Electrics and controls

• Check all lights, indicators, horn and dash warning lights.
• Check the switchgear works properly and the controls move freely.
• Look at the battery and wiring for signs of poor repairs or messy modifications.

The ride and the deal

11. Test ride. Check it pulls straight, shifts smoothly and brakes evenly, and that there are no vibrations or warning lights. Make sure you are insured to ride it. Read our test ride guide for what to feel and listen for.
12. Payment and receipt. Get a written receipt, both sets of keys and any manuals. Be cautious about paying cash to a seller you do not know, and never pay before you have seen the bike and its paperwork.

Red flags

• The seller will not show the logbook or does not match the name on it.
• The seller wants to meet somewhere other than their home or business.
• The price is far below similar bikes.
• The VIN or engine number looks altered or does not match.
• The seller pushes for a quick decision or a cash deposit.

Buying from a dealer

A dealer must sell a bike as described and fit to ride, and you get stronger consumer protection than in a private sale. Ask what checks have been done, what history is available and what warranty is included. A good dealer will be happy to answer all of this and let you take your time.

Frequently asked questions

How much should I budget beyond the price? Allow for insurance, road tax, gear and servicing. A used bike may need tyres, a chain or brakes soon after purchase.

Is a vehicle history check worth it? Yes. It can reveal finance, theft markers and write-offs you cannot see by looking.

Can I pay on finance? Many dealers offer finance. Read our guide to HP vs PCP first.

Browse our current stock or ask us about any bike before you visit.