motorcycle buying guide

That is pretty far from the truth. Ive owned a GSXR, R6, and currently have a 600RR. So id like to think that I have strong broad knowledge of the most popular. I want to throw it in that I am very anti squid. I don't approve of reckless behavior on the roads. Take it to the track. GSXR is the most popular bike. Suzuki sells alot of them. They lead the street scene, and there popularity is still there. R6 is popular among the track junkies, but I believe they are becoming common among the squids. RR riders seem to be the least knowledgable about their bikes. This is coming from someone who has spent alot of time on forums. If you plan on tracking it, keep in mind that they are not to popular there and good track parts are hard to come by and expensive. I can't speak for Kawasaki. The bottom line though is that you will not even be close to riding any bike you buy to its potential.

As for buying used, I have never bought new. Buy only from someone you have a good comfortable feeling from. Try and get a feel if they seem responsible and take care of their property. Leave your emotions at the door. It is easy to get excited about the bike and make a decision you regret. Look over the frame good. Look for any cracks or dents. Ask the guy if he would remove the fairings so you can see everything. Look at the forks and chaeck for damage as well as the subframe. Check handlebars swingarm and rearsets for any scrathes. A sign that it has been down. Don't be turned off if a bike has been down though. Ive seen some bad wrecks at the track (my own even) and there was only cosmetic damage to the bike. They are pretty tough machines. And on that note, don't be affraid of a bike that has been tracked. These owners are some of the most responsible with keeping up on maintenace. Check the oil to see if it is dark or milky. A sign of antifreeze in the oil.

Test ride it if he will allow you to. Or bring a trusting friend who can ride it. When you start the bike, take notice if you are starting it cold or hot. Not a huge deal, but something to think about. Does the bike track straight. When riding it, let go of the bars and see if you stay in line.
There is alot to look at, but just take your time.

Don't buy a bike for all the wrong reasons. Don't buy one for the social side or think it is going to get you laid. You can die from this hobby. Always be mindful of that. Be careful who you associate with as well. Don't get pulled into a group that is irresposible on the road. I have meet tons of people who ride and wanted to meet up, but I saw myself only getting into trouble with them, or attending a bunch of funerals.

Best of luck. I hope you have money left over after you buy because there are a lot more expenses to follow.

 

^^^^^^^^^great post^^^^^^^^^^^^

 

I've worked on these things everyday for the last 9 years and GSXRs are, by far, the most abused and beaten on sportbike. I'd be willing to bet if you ask any other mechanic, they'll tell you the same.

 

I would never buy a used bike.I wouldn't trust doing 150mph on a bike that I don't know the history of.just my opinion. Most street bikes Are built to be beat on and thats what most owners do.Get something with super low miles

 

I've bought two used street bikes. Best thing to do is do your research so you know what you are looking at/for and trust your gut. If the owner seems shady or anything sets off your radar as questionable, walk away. Especially if it's a Gixxer or CBR, there will always be another one to come along.
Oh and make sure they have a clear title or at the very least have one for the state you are in if there is a lean on it. I bought my last bike from a complete douche who moved here from florida and never got the bike licensed up here. It took 74 days for me to get the title in my name. I even asked my bank before hand if this was going to be a problem and they said 'oh no, it'll be fine'.