Buying used bike, what to look for?

[Steve3589]

Thinking about getting my 6 year old a used Honda or Yamaha 50cc bike, at least 2 to 3 year old bike. Anything I should look for other than making sure it cranks and runs?

Thanks

[Macho393]

no more than $500 or $600 for a used one period is what I would be looking for.

[Steve3589]

Found a 2007 CRF50 for $650......is this a good deal?

[Macho393]

yes, but you can beat it. You must also buy boots,helmet chest protector, knee pads, neck brace.
I buy most of my gear on ebay. I pay about 25% of what dealer stores ask.

If the bike is local make a lower offer 1st.

[Vector12]

Check for Oil leaks, fork seals, check oil level and oil color.

Hand push the starter and feel for any grit of notchyness.

Compression tells a large portion of the motors story(bring a plug wrench and the gauge), check the plug color

Check all bearings for excessive play
wheels
steering
shock
swing arm

What does the air filter look like

Is there an owners manual, service manual, extra parts of gear, tool kit

Tire condition, I also check tire pressure.

Receipts are always nice.

Let the bike warm up, and have to owner ride it by you a few times, look to see if the wheels are still almost round, up and down, and side to side, are the tires lined up.

If disk brakes, watch to see if they are warped(easier to check front while your riding)

Watch the exhaust for white of blue smoke.

Check chain and sprockets.

All the little things can add up to some serious coin if you have to replace, and I think most are selling for more than they think they can get. I usually don't buy on the spot(proximity sometimes changes this), return the next day for another look(look in daylight only).

If the bike needs tires of chain/sprockets, deduct from price.

It's a motorcycle, HAGGLE, 20% off isn't a total slap in the face to the seller, if they haggle higher, haggle lower,lol, it truly is a game. I've also offer full price before if the bike is priced right for the time of year, and the bike is prime. Your buying used and peeps sell bikes that have trouble or big trouble coming(piston, crank, clutch, etc.), beware.