Overview
This video covers essential steps and checks to perform after purchasing a used motorcycle, focusing on safety, maintenance, and personalizing the bike for optimal use.
Initial Safety and Maintenance Checks
- Inspect the tires for age, tread depth, cracks, and rubber hardness; replace if over five years old, regardless of tread.
- Check brake rotors for gouges or warping and ensure there is no vibration when braking.
- Examine brake pads for sufficient friction material; replace if close to the metal backing.
- Assess brake and (if present) hydraulic clutch fluid for clarity; replace fluid if dark or unknown age.
Drivetrain Inspection
- For chain-driven bikes: check sprocket condition, chain tension, missing o-rings, and tight spots; replace chain and sprockets together if worn.
- For belt drives: inspect belt for cracks and proper tension; replace if in doubt.
- For shaft drives: change final drive fluid and lubricate/check splines as recommended by the manufacturer.
Engine Oil and Fasteners
- Change engine oil and oil filter immediately, regardless of seller claims or records.
- Go over all accessible fasteners, especially those related to safety and controls, and ensure proper torque.
Personalizing Controls and Ergonomics
- Adjust clutch and brake levers for ideal angle and reach based on your riding posture and hand size.
- Set handlebars to a neutral or personally suitable position.
- Adjust the shift lever and rear brake pedal for easy operation with your preferred riding boots.
Suspension and Lighting
- Reset suspension settings (preload, rebound, compression) to factory standards or middle settings as a baseline.
- Check function of all lights: signals, brake light, running light, low/high beam; replace bulbs if needed.
Reference Materials and Documentation
- Obtain and read the motorcycle’s owner’s manual for maintenance schedules, specs, and features.
- Update or acquire insurance and carry proof with registration.
- Complete ownership transfer with proper title and registration updates.
Additional Considerations
- Evaluate aftermarket modifications for usefulness and safety; remove or adjust as needed.
- Plan for non-urgent maintenance like valve inspections and air filter replacement based on model and use.
- Adjust mirrors for a clear rear view.
- Check and set tire air pressure according to specifications listed on the bike or in the manual.
Recommendations / Advice
- Always baseline a used motorcycle to factory specifications before regular use.
- Don’t rely solely on seller’s claims regarding maintenance history.
- Stay proactive with basic maintenance to ensure safety and reliability.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Ask viewers for feedback on their own post-purchase routines or additional recommendations.
- Solicit input on what topics or videos viewers would like to see next.