What is high mileage for a motorcycle? Tips for buying a used motorcycle.

What is considered high mileage for a motorcycle?
If you are in the market for a used motorcycle this is important to know and a lot depends on the type of motorcycle you are interested in. We discuss it this week on MCrider and some more tips to help you find a good used motorcycle.
This week's links:
MCrider.com/mc-tires
www.MCrider.com/used-motorcycle
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[@TheGeorgiaGent]

Bought an 04 Goldwing 11 years ago, cash, with 4500 miles. Over 215k currently...money well spent.

[@keystonedaytrip238]

You can’t go wrong with a Honda

[@problematicpolarbear6065]

4500 on a Goldwing is a crime. 215k is more species-appropriate. Thank you for giving it the life it was made for.

[@saddlsor]

Cash is king. One can buy a LOT of used motorbike, with a keen eye (and some research) and some modicum of negotiating skills.

[@Pjr_87]

Wow

[@allgasnobrakes919]

Yeah but how much u spent on it in parts and repairs to get it to 215K?? That’s what I wanna know!! Sure u bought a battery, stator, Starter Or something over the years...

[@67daltonknox]

I rode with a CBR 900RR owner who had 100,000 miles on it without even checking the valves. I did 70,000 on an air cooled FJ1200 and a water cooled V-Strom without checking the valves. Provided frequent oil changes, Japanese bikes last forever.

[@djmerchant]

I actually wasted money having the valves checked (along with a laundry list of other "preventive maintenance" items on my CBR 900RR). Everything was within spec. You can't break a Honda unless you completely neglect it.

[@JesusChrist_IsTruth-LoveForALL]

The valve checks seem to be highly overated and not really necessary as countless people have said their bikes were fine when checked at high miles.

[@mickbowen5521]

My '98 Road Glide is coming up on 200,000. 2 top ends and 1 paint job. That bike still checks all my needs. I enjoy you topics.

[@dericksmith2137]

As a young lad (12yrs old), I got my first bike. We had recently moved to the country. While my pals all had dirt bikes, I was a ‘poor’ kid with only a pedal bike. So I asked my grandfather about ‘that old bike at the cabin’. We spent about a week going over the bike (granddad was a small engine mechanic). Anyways, my first bike was a 1968 Honda CB350 with 2000 miles on it. (I’m born in ‘67) . So a 12 yr old kid with an 11 yr old bike. But low miles and in beautiful condition (under the seat was the original manual).

[@analyticalhabitrails9857]

Rest in peace to your grandpa.

[@straightshooter8549]

Awesome memories,...rip grandpa

[@SkinPeeleR]

Great story. Nice memories.

[@d.4tay549]

Hodaka dirt bike rider from the 70's. At 55, last year, I bought my first street bike. 2008 Honda cb250cc Nighthawk, 4,000 miles. Best $1,300 I ever spent. Amazingly, I am younger now and in better shape than ever. And I smile more.

[@pauldean6647]

ACE 90...still have it

[@Iwanncamp]

I just passed an MSF beginner rider class. I’m a sponge right now

[@Flu_Tang_Clan]

Two words: Turbo Busa.

[@robertoortiz447]

Turbo busa too much for a beginners, but do buy Japanese

[@kodiak536kodiak536]

Sponge is good, you have MANY years to soak up what it takes to stsy alive and enjoy your bike and whst motorcycling brings to your life. I took my course as bases mandatory requirement to be able to ride motorcycle on base backbin 1982... NEVER forgot what I learned, evrn after not riding for nearly 25 years afterwards...back riding now for last 11 years with no problems, just couple of accidents that was cager's problem, rear ending us AT STOP SIGN/LIGHT!!!

[@timjohnson1199]

I have a 2012 NC700X that runs like new for sale. Recent service. new tires/chain.

[@cottonballs9]

@@timjohnson1199 how much? Love the nc700x

[@IslandTosh]

Maintenance and care are more important than miles, within reason (and that reasonable limit depends on each person.) Same thing with cars & trucks.

[@Loiczzr]

Yep ! I keep a "journal" on pretty much everything I do on the bike with date and mileage.

[@ztakguod]

There are a number of quality motorcycle shops in the US where you can safely buy a used bike. I bought my VStar at WOW in the Atlanta area. They will make sure the bike is in good maintenance before they sell it as customers stuck on the side of the road is bad for business. As a new rider, it was nice having it delivered to the house. Yes, you will pay more for it, but if you don't have a full set of tools and know-how, it's a pretty good way to go. My only complaint was that the tires were > 10 years old. It was a few months before I looked into that. Didn't have a flat, but I didn't realize what a chance I was taking with these tires that had sidewall cracks.

[@samueljeppsen9785]

Hey Kevin, first love your videos. All of them. Second, I was a professional HD motorcycle test rider, want to add a couple things to look for. Motorcycles that have been hammered have a tendency to weep oil at gasket seams. Look for weeping oil on heads, base and engine gaskets. Also look for signs of high pressure water cleaning. It can damage your gaskets. You'll spot it if the gaskets look pressed in somewhat or is missing paint on areas of the gasket. High pressure washing can also force water into the motor and cause the oil leaks to get worse. If the bike has instruments that don't work, that too is a sign of high pressure water washing. Also inspect the rims. Nobody cleans their rims, except the particular owner. Like the pretender who thinks he is well dressed, will always forget to shine his shoes, the pretender will never hand clean his rims. The rims will also show signs of high pressure water film on the rims, giving the owner away. Also, cold engine starts ALWAYS disclose unusual engine noises, sometimes alerting to looming engine failures. To check if the engine has been started recently, touch the heads near the exhaust ports. Also, look for unusual discoloration at the end of your exhaust pipes. If they have an unusual gummy feeling black soot or if they have been wiped clean, go look at another bike. Also notice if the coloration is the same on all pipes, which could suggest a bad cylinder. One last thing, get down on the ground, lay next to the bike, both sides, and flashlight the underside. Look for unusual weeps, seeps and leaks, as well as signs of impact damage. And while you're there, on both sides, give everything a wiggle test.

[@MCrider]

Great tips...thanks

[@jerzywoking1699]

Never had any oil leaks on any of my (non Harley) bikes. Ever, no matter how hard they have been ridden.

[@straightshooter8549]

Great tips bro!👍

[@chris2790]

@@jerzywoking1699 yeah, I'm thinking leaking oil depends on the engine/manufacturer.

[@Phaezen]

It also helps to pay attention to what modifications have been installed on the bike. A low mileage engine stuffed full of performance upgrades is generally a sign of a bike that has been pushed to its limits.

[@MCrider]

Great point...anything besides a slip on exhaust and I am looking really careful at it.

[@pauldowell1228]

Good point. I spend as much time and energy assessing the seller as I do checking the bike.

[@samueljeppsen9785]

Amen!!

[@harolddavis4138]

WTHeck Almost all motorcycles have been pushed. That the point if riding a motorcycle. I've ridden for 40 years and pushed my bike. My bikes are normally in great shape when I'm done with them years later. Unless you're just riding stupid, it's hard to hurt one. Riding fast doesn't hurt them. Jacking one up with the wrong mods is the bigger problem of buying a modded motorcycle.

[@cleanmike7312]

How bout a bike with 3000 miles that says just put on a new back tire??

[@michaelhunter3101]

Still rollin on a 2003 roadking. Bought it in '16 with 15k on it. It has 86113 at the moment. Still rolling strong. Keep up on maintenance and treat them right and theyll last you a long time.

[@Hearnandy]

Having been involved with motorcycles for the past 60 years, I can find no flaw in this post!

[@davehamilton8034]

A new bike can come with some unknown surprises too! The only new bike I've ever owned was a '77 XS650 Yamaha. Great bike. Two years in I thought the battery died. I replace the battery, and a week later it died again. Gave up and went to a dealer and was told the problem was a pair of brushes that cost 5 bucks. Way less than a battery. Anyhow, funny how nobody told me about this little issue when I bought the bike. Not a big deal until it leaves you sitting along side the road! Great advice as always! Youda best, Kevin!!😎

[@CaptainRon1913]

Bought a Harley Electraglide 18yrs ago. Guy had it ebay with really crappy pictures and it didn't sell. I contacted him and agreed to fly out to inspect and possibly buy it. He even picked me up at the airport. The bike was in mint condition like I suspected, with less than 5k miles on it. It was at a dealer and the oils changed and serviced. I rode it home, and saved close to 10k from buying new. Have since put 80k miles on it with no problems, and it still looks and runs great. Moral of the story, buy bikes and boats from northern states like Michigan since they are in storage 6 to 8 months out of the year. Buy cars and trucks from southern states or California (no rust).

[@jkapown]

I go through tires & brake pads a little quicker, but from you I learned it's much better to leave some rubber in the parking lot (practicing emergency progressive braking) then some guts in the road, thanks again Kevin for the quality content.

[@chuckthebull]

When you own classics there is no such thing as high mileage, you just fix or replace parts.

[@Nuttyernurse]

@Mick Mack I own a 1981 Gold wing, replacement parts are still available, not that with such a reliable bike you need them.

[@tomakafrankconlon3207]

@Mick Mack Hard to get parts nly if the bike was not popular. Bigger problem is that most mechanics or technicians as they are called dont have the skills required to fix older bikes. If they cant plug it in to a diagnostic tool they have no idea what to do. Just keep swapping parts until they eventually find the problem.

[@kevinohara8529]

I ride a 2000 Honda CBR1100XX with near 70,000 miles on it. Yes, I had to do some work to it, but the only thing past normal maintenance was repairing the wiring loom. Runs like a top, just start it up and go!

[@chuckthebull]

@Mick Mack im talking older still. but still cool you are doing that..I have near museum pieces..I have a 1931 flathead Harley engine going into a 70s chopper frame tottaly built up from near junk.. buy and swap parts remachine some and lots of after market support still exists.. but I get your point.. I also have a collection of 80s Japanese bikes I got out of a barn for cheap and rebuilt into bobbers.

[@Flu_Tang_Clan]

True. The real question is how much time, money, and effort do you want to put in.

[@genegoodwin8925]

You are correct about touring bikes lasting longer than sport bikes due of the higher rpm of a sport bike at highway speeds. That being said, I had a Honda 900cc in line four (air cooled) that ran just fine after 34,000 miles. It never used any oil or smoke or leaked. I got rid of it because the fork seals in both forks began to leak and that is usually an expensive repair. Since then I've owned mainly cruiser style motorcycles. My 2002 Suzuki 1500 cc Intruder had 87,300 when I traded it in for my first Harley Davidson. I put 60,000 on it, traded for a Star Statoliner, which did be in as far as Yamahas are concerned after 30,000. I traded it for another Harley and put on 51,000 when I had to go to a trike due to my wife's health issues. I'm not sure if my motorcycles will even start without her on the back. We've traveled well over 300,000 miles in the last twenty years and don't plan to stop any time soon. And we are in our late 60's and she has battled cancer seven times and will be on treatments every month for the rest of her life. We average 15,000 a year these days, but have to stay closer to home because of where she doctors. Ride safe and enjoy every mile.

[@normc4603]

Thank you Kevin for another great video, knowledge is power and you certainly provide us with the knowledge!!

[@freebird7629]

Thanks Kevin! Appreciate the resources also!

[@ivan-Croatian]

Also, thanks for that tip about telling the owner to leave it cold and not warm it up before my arrival to the spot. Very good and informative video.

[@johnnylightning1491]

One other thing you might want to think about is does the bike have aftermarket parts that are critical to the operation of the bike. If you're out on your bike 100 past nowhere USA and the bike breaks it's generally a whole lot easier to get a stock part than it is an aftermarket part which may not even be made anymore. Keep the good stuff coming Kevin.

[@JHman1955]

Thanks for the video Kevin. Great info for the first time buyer.

[@MrMikeb8]

07 roadglide with 90 thousand miles 4 years ago. still going strong

[@alien_man1669]

I got my 92 cb750 nighthawk with 40,000 miles for 1000$ a year ago and it's got 65,000 on it it now and I've enjoyed every mile

[@STho205]

That whole line was indestructible, from the 250 to the 750. Keep it forever. Any part can be replaced/repaired, including the motor. How many of us wish we never sold our 1975 CBxxx. They still run great.

[@shahfacekillah]

Great bikes. My first bike was a 84 nighthawk 450. Bought it in 2006. Paid $1000CAD and it lasted me 3 seasons. Only reason I sold it was because I fell on hard times and had to pay my rent.

[@JSAFIXIT]

@@STho205 I just bought a 1980 cb750, 20k miles on, runs excellent

[@thedude4065]

@@JSAFIXIT .... what classic bikes those late 70's - early 80's Honda CB750's were! ... if I could afford to buy one that's in decent condition ... I'd do it

[@JSAFIXIT]

@@thedude4065 Mine was rough when I got it, but it's coming around quickly.

[@markcollins5026]

Man, I recently bought a new bike, nothing like getting a new bike off the showroom floor !

[@nickfountain8420]

Yep. I agree. I just look for awhile after I decide which bike I want to buy. Hopefully find a new holdover that didn't sell and save 2-4K of of MSRP.

[@lozblessed8609]

If you took a loan to buy a new bike you don’t own it. You’re just borrowing it from the bank. And of course as soon as you drove it out of dealership you immediately lost 30% of its value. Easiest and fastest way to lose money you don’t even have if on payment plan. Not smart.

[@nickfountain8420]

@@lozblessed8609 Not everyone's on the Dave Ramsey financial plan. So I'd say I'm purty smart on how to purchase a new bike!

[@shoechew]

@@lozblessed8609 I think you mean the bank lost 30% of its value since you are just borrowing it. It's all good.

[@JohnDoe-pf6qp]

@@lozblessed8609 If you paid cash for a bike 30% of your money is gone when you finish signing the paperwork. If you borrow it you're out nothing, and even in a very low risk S&P security your $10,000 would be earning you a much better return than the 4-5% interest on a motorcycle loan. Just because Dave Ramsey took out a bunch of 30 day loans on real estate and lost his shirt because he's not a businessman doesn't mean you can't use credit to your advantage.

[@MsBakyamoneneng]

You only need to visit a new motorcycle dealership once and see the out the door price to become a fan of used motorcycles

[@blackghost7263]

Excellent video. I bought my 1976 Honda CB550F Super Sport with 76,000kms and now it has 164,000kms on it. My Suzuki1998 XF650 had 86,000kms up and it's still pulling like a school boy and minimal oil usage between oil changes.

[@rborim]

Great considerations! Thank you for sharing.

[@SMKreitzer1968]

Thanks Kevin! God bless and stay safe.

[@mattblack598]

As usual. You impress me as always. I am glad your the instructor to share to new riding friends. Riding is like a major part of my life. I put a 150, on my first Kz. In 2 years. Am have been riding like a Lunatic for miles and now for 45 years beating down the road hard... am also very lucky to be alive... you are a great motorcycle instructor. Thank you for all your knowledge. You are greatly appreciated and admired. Lunatic Said That.. speed safely 😎 the Slower You go the Cooler you Are.

[@JeffinTD]

Nice video. Two things I like to look at: Clean brake fluid- if the owner kept up changes every 2-4 years they probably kept up on oil and other service. Fork stops- often still show deformity where the forks and stem may have been replaced.

[@ironsteed5766]

One thing i missed on my 1st used bike purchase was a worn down front motor mount. The rubber bushing was almost completely gone. Never thought to look there. Live and learn.

[@eddcurry1245]

My current bike is the first new bike I ever bought new. But it was a retirement gift to myself, and meant to be my last bike purchase. Great video and info.

[@michaele1201]

Please share what you treated yourself with?

[@eddcurry1245]

10Ring old age, bad back, short legs led me to trade in my big Harley for a 2020 Can Am Spyder RTLimited, to tour on. Great ride.

[@TRC_WA]

My 2018 Suzuki GSXS-750 I purchased new in March 2019... and now has 3000 miles on it. I purchased new over used because the used bike market in Seattle metro was and still is utterly ridiculous. Why pay $6k for a used bike when I can get a new one for $8k? That's how I looked at it anyway. I came back in 2019 from an extended riding hiatus and the only used bikes I was even considering were those that featured the newest bells and whistles like ABS and TC... and in the end buying the new one was the better option. BTW... just went out in the garage and gave her a winter start up... first start since November when I parked her and treated the fuel... and... she started right up. :-)

[@TDH8988]

Enjoy the bike!

[@rayacevedo1880]

I agree I bought my first Harley-Davidson for a gift for myself a 1200 Sportster almost brand-new with a thousand miles on it it's badass

[@davide724]

Hello, Kevin. I've been subscribed to you for a while now. I've never learned how to ride a street bike, but I hope to someday, if the appropriate conditionals are met. I just wanted to thank you for doing what you do on this channel of yours, here on KZbin. ✌😎👌

[@daveplogman2995]

Kevin- Been enjoying your videos, finally had my son show me how to subscribe. Ha! Ive been riding since 1985 but have only had 4 bikes in all those years. Im one of those BMW geeks. Currently on a 1996 BMW R1100RT with 125k miles. Shaft drive, ABS brakes and fuel injection. 3 pieces if oem hard luggage. Looking forward to more videos. Dave in Marcellus NY

[@MatMcCrudden]

Great to hear you giving some advice on purchasing a bike, it's a long lost skill

[@T.C..]

Kevin, thank you for sharing your knowledge, I really enjoy your videos

[@MCrider]

Thanks T C

[@danielmoriarty751]

Bottom line a motorcycle with 60,000 miles on it would be equivalent to a car with 100,000 miles on it. Yes I am a certified mechanic.

[@ronj4727]

From my experience, that is the average point you will love it for its reliability or curse it for constantly needed repairs and breakdowns.

[@sambyf2445]

I was told that you multiple the motorbike mileage by 4 to get the car equivalent. Whilst 4 does seem excessive, has anyone else heard that too?

[@MrBlack-wt5er]

Dog years on a bike.

[@BLG80]

So no difference between a 2 stroke 50cc and a honda goldwing in terms of 60k been equivalent to 100k 🤔. Suspect we might be oversimplifying statements here.

[@dyates6380]

As usual, great video.

[@ZombiePotatoSalad]

I've never owned a new vehicle, off the showroom floor. My first bike is a 1980 GS550. It had 17,000 miles on it when I got it. Needed a bit of work. It needs some more now, but this has all helped me learn to work on a motorcycle. I originally started knowing nothing about motorcycles aside from the sound they made.

[@robertkerns9044]

Thank You Kevin for sharing this information. Happy New Year to You and yours. Robert Lee Kerns-Painted Rock HOG Chapter Columbus GA 😎🦅🤙

[@robertvondarth1730]

Bought a 2007 Suzuki bandit 1250 for $2000 last year. At 9000 miles on it, the tread on the tires were excellent, but then I looked closer and realized that those are the original tires from 2007

[@trevorjameson3213]

I had a Bandit 1200 that I bought new in '05. Great bike, very powerful! I put about 22k miles on it and then sold it in '08 to get something a little more tame for doing long distance trips. But the bandit was awesome, I really had fun with it.

[@ZazoMotoVlogs]

Thank you sir for the informations. I have two Elictra glaids. 1986 and 1990. Keep the good work

[@CowboyStag]

Good job. Good info

[@wflentge]

Good advice Kevin. I sold my 2 previous Goldwings both with at least 140K miles. I was original owner and maintained the bikes as should be. Got a fair price for both. I now have a '19 Goldwing DCT Tour.

[@MCrider]

Goldwings have a lot of life in them.

[@demosthenescotto2190]

Excellent talk and thank you brother. Your video will be viewed and it will inform but some buyers will forget everything you said because they got the fever to ride. They'll only see the present shine coming from the bike and they'll hear the future conversation's as they talk about their new latest motorcycle purchase. They won't know to listen for that very specific dience knock from the valve heads and lifters after a healthy drink of STP. I just purchased a 97 BMW with 41, 000 miles. I didn't negotiate with the owner because I know the owner. We used to be romanticley involved for about a year. I know she cared for her bike of 20 years. She never abused her baby. Thank you again brother. I enjoy your unique videos. Your the only one on KZbin that talks about Motorcycles. You actually talk no bells and whistles. Good old fashioned talk. There ain't much of that going on these days. Be safe brother.

[@biker-baz8078]

Cool diamond geezer .. i just done that print off the check list yes it does worry me when buying used bikes .Thank you for that :-)

[@boostedlss6450]

Fearlessly purchased an '03 ST1300 with 88K KM and plan on doubling it. Bulletproof.

[@FCT8306onTwoWheels]

Those are cool looking

[@patrici509]

Very good information. I learned a lot. Thanks

[@straightshooter8549]

Like that " cold start " tip,.... thx. 👍

[@RTJsims]

Really good points MCR, I bought my first bike in feb2020. A 2000 Harley xl1200c with 34k on the Odometer. He asked 3400 and I ended up paying 2200. I spent a little bit fixing things I didn’t like, but outside of the original ignition switch failing, nothing that left me stranded. I have been riding it as a commuter ever since. I’ve put about 2k on it since I bought it with no problems other my noob self running it out of gas a couple times 🤓. I’ll do another primary and oil change here in a few months when I get close to 3k of my miles. Amazing content as always @MCrider

[@donaldoehl7690]

Sportster Mantra: I gotta stop for gas...

[@richardmourdock2719]

Good advice. Great advice on making sure you tell the seller you want to see the thing "Cold". As a general rule, liquid cool motorcycle engines last longer between major periods of maintenance than air cooled engines. Simply a matter of the metal expanding and contracting. Also, < a personal bias here to be sure> motorcycles with drive shafts instead of chains tend to have less drive train issues as they age.

[@tooljst8]

Chains are a wear item, like tires. An example with a neglected shaft drive that has never had the differential oil changed (maybe because owner was unaware) will wear fast too and cost much more than a worn-out chain. You still have to know what you are getting into. I usually do all of the consumable maintenance when I purchase a new bikeor car just because I don't always know what has been done

[@motobator1895]

chains & sprockets are cheap & easy to change out but chains do require frequent maintenance & is a wear item along with sprockets.

[@233kosta]

The shaft thing makes sense - one less thing for the average user to look after.

[@joshua.merrill]

Just bought an 05 Honda VTX1300R with 44k miles on it. The thing is in very good condition, with K&N filter, jet, and V&H exhaust with the baffles. Windshield and saddlebags, and gets 40mpg. HUGE upgrade in comfort from the Grom I was riding, and the gas mileage isn't much worse for being 10x the engine size. Planning to puts a lot of miles and take real good care of it.

[@alertbox]

If Havard or University of Cambridge were to set up a Motorcycle course this guy ought to be the Professor. High quality information delivered with relaxed presentational style.

[@ztakguod]

I'm just guessin' that Harvard and especially Cambridge are probably a little far for Professor Morris. Let's talk to UT or SMU.

[@mike-uh8rk]

Harvard seriously?? Then he would have to teach CRT, hang a rainbow flag in the shop, and tell everyone what pronouns he uses. Please just stay in the garage Kevin.

[@shoomapadoo1141]

I have a PhD in underwater basket weaving with a minor in gold plated diamond encrusted snorkel creations and he makes perfect sense to me.

[@Erik-sq8nz]

this is the best used vehicle vid i have ever seen

[@ronvaughan8041]

I remember my dad getting a Yamaha RD 350 for free about 25 years ago, before they became so collectible. They were really known for being wheelie prone going into 2nd gear. It came with a helmet that was all scratched up on the back, and the tops of the turn signals were scratched up too. It only enthused us more about the bike.

[@SaiRulez1]

Oh the legendary Yamaha RD 350!! Have so many fond memories from my childhood/ college days on that machine. Also the first bike that scared the sh*t out of me when I rode it the first rime! There are still some around in India and mechanic who still work on them. Amazing!

[@ljoelmchanley3676]

Also my 1st bike I got a well used '73 RD back in '79 and it was wheelie prone especially in 1st gear...well 2nd too :)

[@mike1967sam]

Hey Ken, I've been riding since 1992 ...but in the last 11 years I didn't have a motorcycle until a short while ago. I'm thinking of buying another bike, a Honda CB650R from a dealership and the bike is 3 years old and has 7000 miles on it, but the dealership gives me an 18 month warranty, so thanks for all the tips, I'm new to your channel so I just subbed it. Take care. Mike.

[@erickriebel4366]

Excellent coverage of a very important topic on a used bike and great video very knowledgeable well done❤

[@pep729]

I still ride my first motorcycle. 93 Yamaha XJ600 SECA II. 18k miles but as you mentioned it sat for extended periods of time. Needed a lot of work but it's paid for. And let's just say I've learned a ton about motorcycles, how they work and how to repair them. BTW, I hate carbs. :)

[@pseudotonal]

My worst motorcycle purchase was a 1987 BMW K100RT in about 2013. I only rode it a couple hundred miles. It broke down due to some wiring issue and I had to have it towed. The shop said, "bring it in", but then a few weeks later refused to work on it in the summer, saying it was too old for them to waste their time on. They only wanted bikes to come in for the easy stuff so they could get the turnaround. I had to get the vice president of the company to change the mind of the shop supervisor to get the work done. Then, they misdiagnosed it and wanted to charge me for a new starter, imported from Germany, when it was only a wiring issue. Then not long afterward it broke again and wouldn't shift or start. Also, it was so heavy and tall that I had a lot of trouble controlling it. And the gearing was bad. It had 5 speeds and they were too close together. When I was young I had read about BMW and had thought that it was the best bike, so I bought this on a whim. It was grossly overpriced at $3300. So, I gave it away to charity just to get rid of it. What a waste of my money and time.

[@gorgoniansunfish]

Bought an old BMW K75RT a few years ago, had 78,000 UK Miles on the clock when I got it, been used for touring, had to rebuild the rear drive unit and replace the drive shaft around 85,000, had a burnt out exhaust valve at around 110,000, just replaced the one valve, everything else including the camchain where all within tolerances, clutch started slipping around 120,000, cause was crank oil seal failure, replaced seal and clutch friction plate (only around a third warn!), sold the bike a couple of years back with around 145,000 on the clock, brilliant machine, turbine smooth and hardly used any oil between 5000 mile changes. 🙂

[@nspinicelli]

I can't WAIT to get my next bike... I want a $3000 ish banged up and modified KLR 650 to learn more on and take offroading. Used is the way to go :) Especially for a first bike.

[@timjohnson1199]

I have a 2012 NC700X for sale. Almost 18000 miles, runs like new. Recent service, new tires/chain, 65mpg. $3000.

[@nspinicelli]

@@timjohnson1199 Huh, well I'll keep that in mind! I'm not in the market just yet but will be in the next 1 or 2 years.

[@danielserra8827]

Great video thanks

[@willmcgregor7184]

Thanks Good tips

[@123oneeight7123]

Great video. Thanks.

[@abigail_mcleod]

True and agree about the low miles on older bike like mine . when i bought my 1987 electra glide classic last year it has only 9k mls on the tachometer which is very low for 35 old years bike . i bought the bike from a 82 years old Senior who are rarely ride the bike. i bought the bike for 4k USD but again just to make sure everything is okay ,i spent another 1 k USD just to do big service like changing all 3 oils ,break oil ,break calipers ,setting carb ,jetting , tires , suspensions ,checking oil leak , new battery etc. am very happy with my bike now , and feel secure to ride and i already add 2k more mils on the tacho

[@larrysawyer2628]

Bought new 2015 Yamaha , now has 231,000 miles

[@justanotherviewer52]

Thanks. Great tips.

[@MCrider]

Glad it was helpful!

[@youngsoul767]

Thank god I found this guy help full in deed 💪🏾

[@JeffMarcum]

Even though I have only bought new bikes so far, I am considering buying a used bike or two to tinker with and create “How to” videos on my channel. Thank you for the tips.

[@Cyberbile]

Just broke 30,000 miles on my 2005 Suzuki GSXR 1000 and she still runs strong..

[@jhask64]

A glance at my watch tells me it’s 8:05 am on a Friday morning and my first thought is “MCrider video release!” Thanks again for blessing us with your channel.

[@MCrider]

LOL, thanks J Hask!!!

[@jonanthony9927]

Bought my first Harley in 2012 (I know I’m a late starter!) a 1986 Electra Glide Liberty Centennial Model with over 65000 miles and no service history - tidied up the top end and had some great times with that bike. I guess it comes down to how you ride, how much time and money you spend on maintenance and if you like your older, high mileage ride in the first place. Knees in the breeze and shiny side up from Australia!

[@baylaurell]

Great video

[@person.X.]

Third world scooters (100-125cc) from Honda and Yamaha will do mega mileages as they are massively over-engineered for ordinary use as they are designed to cope with lugging massive overloads and multiple passenger (the whole family for example!)

[@pietropezz]

Good informational video.

[@MCrider]

Thanks Pete!

[@ChrisHardwickanimaladventures]

I shopped for my bike completely different than most people. I could care less about blown fork seals, bad tires, and worn out brakes. And I don't mind some wear on my bike as long as the paint looks OK and there are no major dents. What I'm looking for in a Harley Davidson are major modifications that make the bike look really cool. You can mod out a Harley and it won't add any resale value to the bike. The bike I bought had a raked out front end like a chopper, a larger than normal front tire, really cool handlebars, an upgraded intake and exhaust, and a chopper style headlight. All of that would cost a lot to add to a bike if you were to do it on your own. All the other stuff is just regular maintenance, at some point everyone has to replace tires, brakes and fork seals. From there I added my own mods like a 30 inch sissy bar with bags and LED lights all the way around. It only had 20,000 miles on the bike, not too bad for a low RPM high torque engine. And I only paid $6,000 out the door, plenty of money left for routine repairs.

[@willieboy8798]

good video txs good ideas on purchasing

[@austinevans921]

I just picked up a 1972 suzuki 500 titan thats been parked since 89 with 26k miles on it. Bike was well taken care of and stored properly. No rust in the tank. I changed the trans fluid, replaced the oil in the injection tank, and put in a new battery. The bike fired in one kick. Just had new tires put on and it's good to ride.

[@Dave-sw2dm]

The "It depends" even applies to Goldwings. Many are overloaded with obese rider and passenger, as well as towing a trailer. There is so much more to wear than just how long the engine lasts.

[@johnnieours2111]

I bought a 2000 HD wide glide with only 10,000 miles on 6 years ago it know has 70,000 miles with no major problems still has the original cam tensioners, the oil gets changed every 3000 miles with amsoil, it has been a wonderful and reliable bike.

[@A_S_100]

I'd like to add that if you buy anything with a 2 stroke engine, expect a rebuild at some point. Especially those ones that run with a low oil ratio.

[@pauldowell1228]

Excellent advice and guidance Kevin. I bought one new bike. Now I only consider used bikes. There are some fantastic deals out there if you are patient and know a great deal when you see it. Preparation is the key to scoring a great bike at a below market price.

[@johnc8910]

I got really lucky when I bought my barely used (630 miles) 2013 Yamaha FJR1300 in May 2014. Got out the door about $4K under list.

[@leelove5089]

I got back into motorcycles at the age of 65. Two and a half years ago, I was given a '82 Honda GL500 with only 7,800 miles on it. A year ago, I bought a '83 GL650 that was totally redone by a CX500 forum mechanic and in November, I bought a Royal Enfield 2021 650 Interceptor. The RE 650s are pretty awesome and half the price of a Thailand or Brazil made Triumph. I recommend them for a new rider's second bike.

[@Chris-ul1rn]

That GL500 is probably just in your way now, you should give it to me.

[@89StarquestTSi]

Ive had a few bikes, but the 3 highest mileages were: 2003 636rb1 : 28976 1993 gsxr750 : 43251 2003 TL1000R : 51834 I still own the TL1000R and it rides beautifully as did all the others

[@osaze61]

Great points

[@1240enzo]

I bought a 2006 Ducati Monster 620ie with just over 20,000 Kms on the clock a couple of years ago. Bought it over the net and had it transported to my State. Never had ridden a Ducati before but it was in top condition visually and from what the seller told me. I took a leap of faith and trusted him. Once i took delivery of it, I had it serviced, changed the belts and registered it here. In the past two years I have owned it, it’s been just brilliant. The thing is it was exactly as described. So no issues at all. Ducati Monsters can readily do well over 100,000km so long as they are looked after and well serviced. They are a reliable, fun bike to ride.

[@sherriisaac9987]

Don't forget fork fluids when thinking "fluids". I bought a used V-Star for a starter. It didn't have a lot of miles on it but others had tried to start riding on it & it had a few dings in it. Not a biggie... great for starting.. I didn't have to worry about dropping it. However, the forks were spongy when pushed on or just using front break. *There's your sign* Had to change out the fluids. Then had to turn around & change out the springs as well, so fluids a 2nd time. It all adds up. I'd say springs (front & rear) & fork fluids are often overlooked. Check it.

[@sherriisaac9987]

@Bryan Miller I'd go ahead & change the springs & fluid. I ordered mine online at JP Cycles. Tip* Be careful when you open it up because that spring may still have a load on it. Maybe check online about how to drain the fluid, because I know Harley's drain differently than my Yamaha. I would go full on with springs & fluid if you're havin' that same feelin' though. Don't do like I did & think just the fluid change is gonna cut it. You'll be happy you did. It will handle & feel so much better. For the age they are, it's just something that has to be replaced over time, even on a low mileage bike that's been sittin'.

[@sherriisaac9987]

@Bryan Miller Also, if it has a tube for adjustments on the new springs, JP Cycles was helpful in getting the math right to get them set perfectly. Call the manufacturer or seller if you have difficulties on the install. They're usually very helpful.

[@sherriisaac9987]

@Bryan Miller Maybe / maybe not... check the seals for sure though. Mine didn't need the seals. Enjoy & Ride Safe Brother!

[@legalpitbull3623]

suspension fluids are the most overlooked mantinance on almost every bike out there. Most people have not idea how fast those fluids break down .

[@sherriisaac9987]

@@legalpitbull3623 & drive shafts. I've just learned that one the hard way.

[@n4zou]

I have a 2006 Honda VLX 600 because I'm old. It's got a very low seat I can easily get my leg over. It's also light in weight so no problem if I drop it and picking back up by myself. It's one of the few modern Motorcycles that 1970's era a Craig Vetter Windjammer can be fitted on, which I did. I also attached the matching Vetter bags and trunk on it. I turned that bike into a modern version of an early 80's GL500 Silverwing. I ride it year round and service it by the milage chart in the manual except for oil changes. I do that every 3,000 Miles instead of every 7,000 Mile's. I love my light touring bike that manufacturers stopped building in the early 1980's. They got in a race to see who could build the heaviest, overpowered, and overpriced touring Motorcycles possible.

[@yoshit9819]

You make great videos

[@GuruLiving4]

I rely on this guy’s information!

[@DerderianEclecticTravel]

Have had 5 bikes, all used. Rode them into the 60s and 80k’s, including a 900 Vulcan with 43k. Just purchased a brand new ‘21 Indian Springfield. Wow... what a difference with a new bike

[@lbyvik]

Owned a bmw k75. Had 300k miles when I sold it. Currently own a 2006 bmw gs w 160k miles and running strong.

[@thomasgarrison3949]

You are right on the mark. I traded in my 1980 Honda Goldwing Interstate it had over 250K miles & still ran good. Then I bought a 2003 Honda Shadow VT750 I ran it for years putting tens of thousands of miles on it. I traded that 20 year old bike for a new 2023 Kawasaki Vulcan 900 Classic LT, This bike should last me another 20 years. I always kept my motorcycles serviced at recommended intervals. I always checking tire pressure, oil level, coolant level, gas level & look for loose hardware before riding, better safe than sorry.

[@alissarobertson8840]

Of the eleven motorcycles I have owned all were used and only two were running when I got them. The rest were pretty much basket cases but when you're poor and want to ride you learn to wrench. My 98 FLSTF is cold blooded and needs to idle for a bit my 02 FLSTC started right up. Both bikes have CV 40 carburetors. My old 72 FLH with the original Bendix carburetor on it can sit for months and it pops right off and you can't ride off on it.

[@Ealdor-Bana]

Main thing to remember if you did buy a new bike is the possible hidden costs. New bikes may have issues that while the garage will cover is still a cost to you if it was your main transportation and your insurance doesn’t have a curtesy bike. Any bike under 5k is considered ride with care on the bike manual. I got myself my dream bike, a Indian scout sixty after 5 years riding supernaked bike. It’s from 2016 and only has 8k and i live in the Uk so i was very lucky to find it at a dealership for the price. My last new bike had a electrical fault that the warranty covered but my insurance had no extra bike cover so as it was my main work bike i was left paying for transportation to work.

[@michaelmorgan5714]

Thank You!

[@michaelbw]

Bought an ex-rental Honda Dream 100 with 80,000 km (50,000 miles) on the clock for about $500. Sixteen years on (and one engine overhaul @ $150), with over 290,000 km I sold it for $150, still good for a good few more km.

[@tellytruth8554]

I remember when these came out and they were awesome. And for a bike that will go 100-200K miles, show me the competition. Any big HD easily meets or beats the Val's weight. Grab one while you can. The value is still there IMHO.

[@alexrios4064]

Thanks 😊great advice to purchase a pre owned motorcycle !

[@DaveBuildsIt]

@ 7:45 My 2012 FLHTK (purchased in 2018) had great like-new tread. But due to my lovely wife's seizures beginning just days after purchase, I only put 1000 miles on it until just a few weeks ago. I recently looked up the tire's age (thanks to MCrider's video) and realized that the tires while looking nearly new, were 9 years old. I picked up a new set of OEM tires and the ride difference was immediately noticed. Never again will I be negligent when it comes to motorcycle tires. I've logged more miles since changing tires than I did in the previous 3 years owning the bike.

[@nkh1774]

Yes, gotta watch out for that dry rot on old tires, regardless of tread depth left. 👍🏼