Motorcycles

Focus on the frame — look for cracks near the steering head and swingarm pivots. Check tire date codes (format DOT XXWWYYYY); replace any tires over 5 years old regardless of tread. Inspect brake rotors for grooving and pad thickness. Ask for photos of the chain and sprockets, fork seals, and exhaust headers. Any crash damage should be fully disclosed and photographed.

Run the VIN through the NMVTIS (National Motor Vehicle Title Information System) or a Cyclechex report to check for salvage titles, theft, and odometer rollbacks. Many states don't title motorcycles under a certain value, so gaps in the chain of ownership are common. Ask the seller directly how long they've owned it and why they're selling.

Budget for a full service on arrival: engine oil, coolant (liquid-cooled bikes), brake fluid, air filter, spark plugs, and chain adjustment or belt inspection. A dealer service runs $150–$400 depending on the model. Vintage British and Italian bikes require more frequent maintenance than Japanese bikes; factor that into your total ownership cost.

Low mileage can mean regular riding prevented by storage. Motorcycles that sit for years develop carburetor and fuel system problems, degraded rubber seals, and corroded brake components. A low-mileage bike that's been stored is often more work than a higher-mileage bike that was ridden and maintained regularly. Always ask about storage conditions and the last time it was started and ridden.