After buying, replacing things depends on the motorcycle condition that you have purchased. Some motorcycle owners maintain the condition of the motorcycle as new even when it is old. In this case, your motorcycle will not need to change much. If the owner of the motorcycle is not very careful about his motorcycle many things will be required to be changed.
1. Wash the motorcycle
After buying a used motorcycle take the motorcycle for a deep clean wash so that you can read your motorcycle in more detail. It will allow you to notice more details and find errors on the motorcycle.
2. Inspect for damages
Even if you did a pre-purchase inspection after buying, Inspect thoroughly if the motorcycle has any kind of damage on the body or frame. For used Motorcycles most of the time it can be seen minor or major cracks and damages are tried to marge and hidden by paint. If the motorcycle frame is old enough and rusty, notice carefully if there are any damaged parts. If any part of the motorcycle is too old and requires it to be changed then change it.
3. Inspect for leakage
Check the oil tank out and inside if there is any leakage. Inspect the engine thoroughly. Old motorcycle engines usually leak oil due to the worn-out seals. If you find any, fix the leakage as soon as possible. Question: How do I know my motorcycle engine is leaking oil? Answer: The most common sign of oil leaking is the motorcycle engine getting covered with black stains for the layer of leaking oil. Worn-out fork oil seals the oil stains on the front forks of the inner tube. If the motorcycle engine is having any leak at the time to start the motorcycle you will get the smell of burnt oil.
4. Test ride
After buying a used motorcycle go for a test ride. If it is your first motorcycle go on a ride with someone who knows about motorcycles well. Notice if the engine sound, acceleration, brakes, and suspension are working properly.
Must do checklist-
Fluids: Check the engine oil, brake fluids, and coolant and see whether the fluids are in the correct quantity and good condition. Otherwise, change fluids if it is required to be.
Brakes: Before going for a ride check the motorcycle brakes. Check the thickness of the brake pad and make sure the pads are not worn out and working properly. Replace the brake pads if it is required to be.
Tires: Check the tire condition and see if it can create enough friction to the ground. Check the tire grips and pressure. Replace the tires if they are not fit for the road or worn out.
Rims: Put your motorcycle on the double stand, rotate the wheel, and inspect closely if you notice any tilt on the rim. Fix it if you find out. If there is rust, dent and crack on the rim, replace them.
Spark plug: An old and faulty spark plug may cause several issues. It leads to slow acceleration, trouble starting, and improper ignition. due to improper ignition mixture of air and oil can not brun properly and can lead to problems like backfires. Replace the spark if it is required to be.
Oil and Air filter: Replace the oil and air filter if it looks dirty and clogged. Air filters and oil filters strain dirt, debris, and unwanted things and pass fresh air and oil to the engine. Which helps to maintain the good health of the engine.
Chain and sprocket: If the chain is oily or rusty clean and lubricate it properly. A motorcycle chain should not be too tight or loose adjust the chain if so. Check the sprocket for wear.
Battery and lights: Check the battery’s health and replace it if it is not performing well. You can understand the battery problems by observing some general signs. If the battery has any issues the motorcycle self-start system will not be functioning properly, your motorcycle lights will not be lighting enough and the horn will not honk properly.
5. Customization
Upgrade the motorcycle parts and accessories as per your needs. Considering an old motorcycle it would be wise not to overspend without the essentials.
6. Get familiar with the motorcycle
Read the owner’s manual properly for specific maintenance schedules and requirements for the motorcycle. For better understanding and control, spend time riding the motorcycle.
Make sure your motorcycle is fit for riding on the road and maintaining all the legal criteria. These steps not only extend your motorcycle life but also ensure a safe and smooth ride.