Pre-owned Motorcycles (2024)

FAQs

What are the red flags when buying a used motorcycle? ›

Red flags. Things to look for when buying a used motorcycle include rust or significant scratches, oxidized paint, a rusty chain, smoke from the exhaust when the bike is started and leakage from the engine or transmission.

A good mileage range for a good motorcycle depends on the model. Dirt bikes don't usually last more than 20,000 miles, while sports bikes are considered high mileage at 20,000-30,000 miles. Cruisers and touring bikes have a lot more life because they operate at a lower rev level.

High mileage for a motorcycle can be anywhere from 15,000 miles to 50,000 miles depending on what type of bike it is, where it was ridden, and whether the previous or current owner kept up with maintenance requirements. However, don't just look at mileage when deciding whether a used motorcycle is a good purchase.

The engine performance can be gauged through a test ride, but you should also look for visible damage, signs of a crash, and rust spots. Look around the valves and cylinders for leaks. Also, check the oil filter for rust and damage. Consider asking questions about the engine specifications.

If we're looking for exact figures, the average motorcycle engine can last a good 10 to 15 years, any major breakdowns or accidents notwithstanding. In terms of mileage, those figures translate to roughly 100,000 to 160,000 km.

Smaller Harley-Davidsons have an estimated high mileage of around 20,000 to 30,000 miles, whereas larger Harleys can drive for an average of 30,000 to 50,000 miles without their engines being worn down.

While a motorcycle can be considered high-mileage anywhere from 20,000 to 50,000 miles, many of these bikes are still in great condition! You can easily find out if a used, high-mileage bike is in good shape by: Checking its motorcycle service records. Getting a vehicle history report.

Can-Am motorcycles had the worst reliability rating according to Consumer Reports with an estimated 42% of bikes needing repairs within the first four years. Still, 67% of owners said they'd buy a Can-Am bike again. More frequent repairs or a higher cost of ownership don't matter as much to Can-Am riders.

Japanese motorcycles have a reputation for lasting longer than bikes designed in other countries, and Honda is at the top of that list. The average motorcycle is ridden 4,000 miles a year, and a well-kept Honda motorcycle can last well over 25 years.

What is the best cheap motorcycle? ›

A lack of routine maintenance is the most common cause of a motorcycle engine blowing up. Simple stuff like not changing the oil or neglecting the air filter can kill an engine. In other words, most motorcycle engine failures are very much preventable with a little TLC.

For beginners, a motorcycle with an engine size of 500cc to 600cc is recommended as it is easier to handle and more forgiving for new riders.

Toyota's 22R engine is often hailed as one of the most robust and long-lasting engines ever produced. Introduced in the late 1970s, it powered various Toyota models for decades. Owners have reported these engines regularly exceeding 300,000 miles, and some even reaching half a million miles with proper maintenance.

Take it for a test drive

Ensuring the motorcycle is off and hasn't been started recently means you can check how well it starts, look for issues in the exhaust, and much more. Test the brakes, shift the gears and make sure all of the lights are in working order. Check the motorcycle's fuel tank.

Look closely at areas that are under the most stress while riding (think: underneath the bottom bracket and around the frame joints, where cracks are more likely to form). But give the entire frame a close look—cracks could form just about anywhere, and you don't know if the bike was involved in a crash or mishandled.

Look For Damage

Visually inspect the motorcycle and make sure there aren't any major scratches or dings. Pay special attention to the gas tank; if it's dented, it may need to be replaced. Look at the exhaust pipes, too, and check for any bluing on the metal, which could indicate that the motorcycle overheats.