There are a number of factors to consider when shopping for a used Harley in Chicago. While the general appearance of the bike and what features and accessories it has are usually what catches a person’s eye, there are other things that must also be looked at to ensure a quality bike is purchased. Some of the things to inspect carefully are highlighted here.
Assess the Bike’s General Condition
The first step when shopping for a used Harley in Chicago is to assess the overall condition of the bike. Check for any oil leaks and, if there are none present, look at the oil itself. Specifically, look at the amount and condition of the oil in the bike. Low oil levels or dirty oil indicates the bike was not maintained properly and may be an indication of future issues. It may be a good idea to inspect the underside of the bike. If it looks squeaky clean, it may have recently been washed to hide a leak.
Look at the Condition of the Battery
Another indication of how well the bike has been maintained is the condition of its battery. What a person is looking for is a full battery that has tight, clean terminals. If the battery does not pass this visual inspection, there is a high likelihood other issues will be found.
Inspect the Tires
Take note of if there are any unusual wear patterns on the tires. For example, scallops on the edges of the front tire indicate an issue with the bike’s front fork. Also, look for any weather checking on the sidewalls and be sure to measure the threads depth, which should be 1/16th of an inch or more. If the tires are not in good shape, then the cost of a new set should be taken off the purchase price of the motorcycle.
Buying a used motorcycle can be quite exciting. However, a buyer should not let the excitement cloud their judgment. Taking the time to fully check out the bike is a must to make sure a good deal is received. Individuals who would like more information on a used Harley, contact Chicago Cycles Motorsports.
