Buying a motorcycle is different from buying a car, but there are certain common aspects as well. Both complete planning and research to ensure you are getting a good deal. Just like a test drive helps buyers assess the performance of the car they are about to buy, motorcycle buyers can go for a test ride.
It is important to understand how you can assess a motorcycle during the test ride. This guide will list and explain what you should check and what are the things to consider when test riding a motorcycle.
Common Things to Consider When Test Riding a Motorcycle
The first step toward finding the right motorcycle is analysing your needs. Someone looking for a motorcycle for a daily commute might look for different things when compared to a motorcycle enthusiast who only rides for fun and adventure. You will find several practical and economical options along with high-end, high-performance bikes that attract enthusiasts.
Once you’ve reviewed the models and decided which one is your favourite, it’s time to ride. To help you with the evaluation, we have prepared some tips on what are those things to consider when test riding a motorcycle.
Check Your Posture
Arm position is significant for comfortable riding. When doing the test ride, you need to check if you are going to get it very stretched out or more retracted. There is no rule as to which is best, so you must decide which will be right for you.
Foot position is also important. Touching the entire sole to the ground is better to get complete stability. If the bike is heavier and you only touch your toes to the ground, this can get in your way on rainy days or smooth ground.
Another tip is to check how your leg is flexed when you take your foot off the ground and put it on the pedal. If it is flexed too long in an unwanted position, it can be uncomfortable. If you are planning to have a long motorcycle trip, then follow this checklist.
The Brakes
The importance of the brake goes without saying, but as per the motorcycle test ride etiquette, you must check the condition of the lever, the master cylinder and the fluid reservoir. Also, look for leaks, marks or tinkering. You will have to lean over to look at the pads and discs. Moreover, make sure that commands are not spongy.
On the disc side, the ideal is to have a calliper available to measure their thickness. Also remember to check the appearance of the disc which must be clean, and without large streaks. Finally, if the bike has a central stand or you can put it on a workshop stand, relieve the front and ask the owner or your friend to press on the rear.
Suspension
Suspension is one of the key parts for your safety while riding a motorcycle. The suspension because it’s what will help you stay balanced in case you go through a hole or unevenness. Also, check there should not any scratches or leaks on the fork tubes and the rear combustion.
Focus on the Engine
If you’re buying a motorcycle, you’ll need to check its engine. If you are already a motorcycle enthusiast, you will want to hear the sound of the engine and also test its response. A common practice that some mechanics follow is that they warm up the engine before the buyer’s visit to limit any start-up faults. If this is the case, you will be able to quickly realise it if the displayed temperature is more than 60°C.
Start the motorbike yourself. After turning the ignition key, boost on the starter and the engine should not hesitate. Also, listen carefully, there should not be any clicking or grinding sound coming from your engine.
Moreover, observe if there is any vibration during a test ride on a motorcycle. If the engine vibrates that means the bike was poorly maintained and can further lead to oil leaks and loosened bolts.
Check all the electronics
Check all the electrical controls and the correct operation of the components they control: position lights, dipped beam headlights, main beam headlights, indicators, horn, headlight flasher, circuit breaker, brake lights (with the front brake and with the rear brake), indicator lights and dashboard lighting.
Clutch Tightness
The clutch lever free play should be about 10mm. When stationary, up and down the gears must pass without creaking. Do not confuse a small click which may be normal when engaging first gear with prolonged creaks when changing each gear, signs of a “flushed” clutch or a very tired gearbox.
To find out if the clutch is worn, the easiest way is to stall at 5,000 rpm in 5th or 6th gear and accelerate fully. If the tachometer needle climbs towards the red zone when the motorcycle does not accelerate, it means that the clutch linings are out of order and need repair.
Check Wheels
Motorcycle tyre safety is essential for a safer ride. Hence, check the sidewalls of the tyres and the depth of the treads as well as the tension of the rods. If you see a slight dent or bump, your wheel is bent. However, be careful, the bend is sometimes not noticeable without turning your wheel. Hence, rotate it and if you notice warping, know that it is possible to have a wheel bend. Also, if you heard a regular noise when you were turning it then there must be a problem with the wheel bearings. Gear and bearing wear are also the signs of a failing motorcycle transmission, hence keep an eye on that.
Take a Close Look at Fasteners
Moreover, another thing to consider when test-riding a motorcycle is the condition of the screws. Take a look at all the visible screws and bolts (including the wheel axle), which must not have been mistreated or rusted. You can also check if the screws of the housing are the same or all different. This will let you know if the motor has already been opened or not.
Moreover, remember to ask if the owner has the following:
- Duplicate keys
- Maintenance Manual
- Tool kit
- All the original parts that he would have modified
Now you know all about motorcycle test ride etiquette, so don’t rush if you have any doubts. Curb your enthusiasm, don’t give in to the crush. Moreover, check that there are no oil leaks or creaking sounds during the test.
With this, we end our list of things to know when test riding a motorcycle. If you are planning to buy a used motorcycle in the UAE, make sure you follow all these steps and test ride a bike properly.
Moreover, follow this checklist for buying a used motorcycle to avoid costly repairs in future.
Stay tuned to the UAE’s top auto blog for more motorcycle maintenance tips and buying tricks.
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