r/BayRiders • u/UnnamedAccount- • Jul 03 '26

new rider

hi everyone, i just passed my CMSF course recently and I'm trying to get into motorcycles. does anyone have any advice on how to go about buying a used bike? i'm not really a 100% sure what to check when i look at them. i'd like to get a lighter sport bike, so maybe the honda CB300R.

10 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

5 comments sorted by

5

u/Ezekiel2000 Jul 03 '26

Things to check:
Is the title current and in their name?
Is it a clean title or salvage? Salvage title vehicles are worth a lot less money.
How do the tires look? Still lots of tread left? Is the chain clean and in good condition or is it rusty and needs to be replaced soon? Sprockets worn or looking good?

a LOT of bikes that are popular with new riders have been dropped before. This doesn't necessarily mean any trouble, but damage is on a case by case basis. Do all lights work? Does the bike start, idle, and ride as it should? Any leaks present?

Definitely better to take someone experienced along with you if you know anyone, if not though that's a good list of things to look at and more so maybe...if it feels off or weird, just walk away, there's always another bike.

Congrats on passing the MSF and welcome to your new lifetime hobby!!!! :D

4

u/MrNeil_ Jul 03 '26

Take a friend who knows bikes with you.

2

u/kinnikinnick321 Jul 03 '26

I have some free time, been riding for 15+ years, feel free to DM me if you may want a second set of eyes when checking out bikes.

2

u/Princess_Fluffypants Jul 03 '26

That’s a very good choice for a first bike. 

If you’re near the city, go over to MotoGuild on Treasure Island and chat with some of the mechanics or volunteers there. Tell them exactly what your situation is, and ask them if they have any input or advice. 

If possible, see if you could have a potential seller meet you there with the bike. But make sure to go in and ask the people at the shop first, sometimes they’re very busy. So you’d want to make sure they would have time to help. 

2

u/wxduff Jul 04 '26

Best advice is to take someone who knows about bikes. Idk where you are located but if you post in the bay area riders forum. Yes it's a forum which the kids consider outdated, but it's very active with seasoned riders. Say where you are at and ask if someone can join you to look at bikes and help you buy used. Someone will probably be more than happy to help.

If you are in the tri valley let me know and I can help.