Buying a used motorcycle

[BZeto]

I want to buy a mid sized cruiser and am almost set on a Suzuki Boulevard M50. Liquid cooled, EFI, shaft driven, good looks and power.
I'm ready to start shopping around, but to be honest really don't know much about the mechanical workings of a motorcycle.

Aside from obvious cosmetic flaws, what are the main area's of the bike that I should inspect for damage or wear?
From what I've heard the forks and fork seals are a big one. Any other tips much appreciated.

 

[angry hampster]

See how much tread is left on the tires. Sit on it and see if the rear shock feels soft. Check oil & trans fluid color.

 

[BZeto]

Originally posted by: angry hampster
See how much tread is left on the tires. Sit on it and see if the rear shock feels soft. Check oil & trans fluid color.

I'm assuming rear shock should feel soft. What does oil and trans fluid color tell me other than they may need to be changed?

 

[JulesMaximus]

Look for any fluid leaks or rash from being dropped. If it has been down and has a lot of rash on engine casings or controls I'd look elsewhere. A minor tip over in a parking lot wouldn't put me off the bike though. Check coolant lines and make sure the radiator and cooling system aren't damaged. These items are typically very expensive to replace.

Check tires for cracks in the tread. New tires will cost you between $300-400 if you need to replace both of them. If the bike is over 5 years old and the rubber is original I'd replace it.

Pop the gas cap off and look to see if there is any rust in the tank. If there is, I'd pass on that bike.

Ask for records of services and check to see that all the required services have been performed.

If the bike has been sitting for more than 6 months without being ridden chances are it will need a new battery. This will set you back about $100 but I'd just ask him to knock that off the negotiated price. A bike that has been sitting should have all the fluids changed before being put back into service IMO and it's good preventative maintenance.

BTW-If you're new to riding I'd recommend taking the MSF course and getting your license before you start looking at bikes. I'd also recommend you start out on something smaller like a Honda Rebel. Ride that for 4-6 months and then move up to the Boulevard. I know a guy who hadn't ridden in decades and he went out and bought a new Suzuki Boulevard and crashed that thing 3 times within the first 6 months he owned it, once on a ride with a friend of mine and I.

 

[BZeto]

I have my license and have been riding a DR650 on the streets for quite awhile and am looking forward to something a little more street friendly. Good advice on what to check.

 

[JulesMaximus]

Originally posted by: BZeto
I have my license and have been riding a DR650 on the streets for quite awhile and am looking forward to something a little more street friendly. Good advice on what to check.

That's cool.

BTW-I noticed you mentioned fork seals in your OP. I wouldn't worry too much about that on the type of bike you're looking at. I'd be surprised if the fork seals were leaking on a relatively new cruiser unless someone changed the springs and oil and did an absolutely horrible job replacing the seals. In which case I would look for gouging on the fork tubes and leaking. Pump the front end up and down a few times and if they look glassy smooth around the seals and they don't leak you're fine.

 

[Greenman]

I'd visit the M50 forums and ask there.
I like the boulevard series, and I'd love to take a 109 for a spin, they're pretty quick for a cruiser.

 

[Turin39789]

Check to make sure the rocker arm on cylinder #1 isn't about to disentegrate.