5 Tell-tale Signs if a Motorcycle Was Involved in an Accident or Not

Buying a used motorcycle can be a smart choice, but you also have to check whether the motorcycle has been in an accident or not. Here are some signs you can check.

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Buying a used motorcycle can certainly save you money. With the same budget, you may be able to get a higher specification model than buying a new motorcycle. However, before making a purchase, there is one thing you need to take into account, which is the accident history of the motorcycle.

Not all motorcycles that have been in accidents should be avoided. Some accidents are minor and only cause scratches on the motorcycle’s body, while others are severe and can affect the structure and safety of the motorcycle. That’s why it’s important to know some early signs before you make a decision.

1. Condition of the Fairing and Paint

The first thing that is easy to spot is the condition of the motorcycle’s exterior. Try to notice whether the paint color on each panel looks even or whether there are parts that have slightly different color shades.

Also, look for uneven panel gaps, stickers that aren’t properly applied, or freshly applied paint on certain areas. This doesn’t necessarily mean the bike has been in a major accident, but it could be an indication that the bike has been repaired before.

If you see some of these signs, don’t jump to conclusions right away. Ask the owner beforehand about the history of the motorcycle and ask for an explanation.

2. Check the Handlebar and Front Fork

The front of the motorcycle is often the first place to receive impact in an event of an accident. Therefore, check the condition of the handlebars, front forks and front wheel carefully.

When doing a test ride, let go of the handlebars for a moment on a straight and safe road. If the motorcycle feels like it’s pulling to the left or right, it may indicate a problem with the alignment or front components of the motorcycle.

You can also check to see if the fork has any unusual scratches, bends or oil leaks, as these can all be signs that the motorcycle has received a strong impact to the front.

3. Any Signs of Welding or Repair on the Frame

The frame is one of the most important components on a motorcycle. If the frame ever suffers serious damage, it can potentially affect the stability and safety of the motorcycle when riding.

Use a flashlight if necessary and look for any welded spots, cracks, or parts that look untidy. Even if the repairs are well done, any changes to the frame should be noted.

If you are not sure how to check it, it is better to bring along an experienced mechanic to do a more thorough inspection.

4. Check Service Records and Ask About Its History

Don’t just rely on the physical condition of the motorcycle. Take the time to ask the owner about the history of the motorcycle.

Some of the questions that can be asked are whether the motorcycle has ever been in an accident, has any major components been replaced, or does it have a complete service record. Owners who take good care of their motorcycles will not try to hide any important information.

If maintenance records are still kept, they can also provide insights into how the motorcycle was cared for throughout its ownership.

5. Test Ride Before Buying

Even though the motorcycle looks nice from the outside, you should go for a test ride before making a decision. A test ride can help to detect any problems that may not be visible when the motorcycle is stationary.

Check to see whether the motorcycle feels stable when moving, the brakes work well, the handlebars don’t shake, and the engine delivers power smoothly. If you feel like something is wrong, don’t ignore the feeling.

It’s okay to take some time to think before making a decision. It’s better to be safe rather than regretting after making the purchase.

Conclusion

A motorcycle that has been involved in an accident doesn’t necessarily mean you should avoid it, but you should know the extent of the damage and make sure it has been properly repaired. A thorough inspection can help you avoid high repair costs and give you confidence that the motorcycle you purchased is still safe to use.

If you are looking for a used motorcycle but want more peace of mind, iMotorbike offers motorcycles that have been thoroughly inspected by our experienced technicians. With iM Certified, you can check the condition of the motorcycle and see the overall report of the motorcycle to help you make the right decision. For lasting peace of mind when buying a used motorcycle, buy from iMotorbike.