What to Do After Buying a Used Motorcycle?

Here are five important things you should do to ensure your motorcycle is safe, reliable and ready for every day use.

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Buying a used motorcycle is a smart choice for many Malaysians. With a lower budget, you can still own a motorcycle that is suitable for daily use, commuting to work or a weekend ride.

However, your work doesn’t end once the sale is complete. Even if your motorcycle appears to be in good condition, there are a few important things that need to be checked and done before you use it every day.

These steps will not only help prevent unexpected damage, but also give you confidence that your motorcycle is truly in top condition. Here are five things to consider after buying a used motorcycle.

1. Perform Basic Service

The first thing that is most recommended is to perform a basic service. Even if the previous owner stated that the motorcycle was recently serviced, you may not have complete records or know exactly when the last maintenance was performed.

Consider changing your engine oil and oil filter. Fresh engine oil helps keep your engine well lubricated and gives you a clear starting point for your next maintenance schedule.

Additionally, have the technician check the air filter, spark plugs, brake fluid, and battery condition. This initial inspection can identify any components that are nearing the end of their life before they cause bigger problems.

By doing basic servicing as soon as you buy a motorcycle, you can also start your own maintenance record without relying on information from the previous owner.

2. Check the Condition of the Tires and Brake System

Tires and brakes are two of the most important components in terms of safety. Even though your motorcycle looks beautiful from the outside, don’t neglect checking these two parts.

Check the tire tread and make sure it still has good grip. If the tire is almost bald, has fine cracks or is wearing unevenly, consider replacing it as soon as possible. Don’t forget to also check the tire pressure according to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.

As for the braking system, try to feel the front and rear brake response while riding. If the brakes feel too soft, too hard, make noise or lack grip, it may need further inspection. Worn out brake pads or old brake fluid can also affect brake performance. Remember, good engine performance means nothing if the motorcycle cannot stop safely when needed.

3. Check the Chain and Other Basic Components

The chain plays an important role in transmitting power from the engine to the rear wheel. If the chain is too loose, too tight, dry or rusty, the motorcycle’s performance can be affected and the components will wear out more quickly.

Take some time to clean and lubricate the chain using a suitable lubricant. At the same time, also check the condition of the sprockets to ensure that the teeth are still in good condition.

Apart from the chain, do a quick check on other components such as the headlight, brake light, turn signal, horn and side mirrors. Although they may seem like small things, all of these components play an important role when riding, especially at night or in the rain. A basic check like this only takes a few minutes, but can prevent problems that could disrupt your trip.

4. Familiarise Yourself With The Motorcycle

Every motorcycle has a different riding character. Even if you have owned the same model, the condition of the motorcycle may vary depending on how it was used and cared for by the previous owner.

After buying a motorcycle, avoid taking it on long trips. Use the motorcycle for short trips first so you can get used to the seating position, throttle response, braking performance and handling.

During this period, also listen for unusual noises such as noises from the chain, brakes, suspension or engine. Sometimes minor problems can only be detected when the motorcycle is used in real conditions. If you feel something is wrong, don’t wait until the problem becomes more serious. Have it checked as soon as possible.

5. Keep Your Own Maintenance Records

Many motorcycle owners only keep service receipts without actually recording the maintenance that has been done. Although it may seem trivial, maintenance records are actually very useful in the long run.

Record the service date, odometer reading, type of engine oil used, and components that have been replaced. This way, you will easily know when it is time for the next service or to replace a particular component.

A complete record is also beneficial if you plan to sell the motorcycle in the future. Buyers are usually more confident in a motorcycle with a clear maintenance history than one with no record at all.

Conclusion

Buying a used motorcycle is not just about finding a good price, but also about ensuring that the motorcycle remains in top condition after you own it. By performing basic servicing, checking important components, familiarizing yourself with the motorcycle and keeping maintenance records, you can enjoy a more comfortable, safe and problem-free riding experience.

If you’ve just bought a used motorcycle and want to make sure everything is in top condition, iMotorbike offers a Free Motor Check service. Our technicians can carry out a thorough inspection and you’ll get a full report of your motorcycle to find out its true condition.

Visit the iMotorbike website for more information and have your motorcycle checked by us today.