When you buy a used motorcycle, you need to ensure the safety of the machine you will be riding on the open road is a key decision.

Motorcycles have been a popular part of culture, and are only increasing in popularity. People in the United States recently bought close to 800,000 motorcycles in a single year.

Since there are so many motorcycle riders and sellers, it’s important that you prioritize your safety as you navigate the market and look to make a purchase. These tips will keep you safe when you’re trying to buy a used motorcycle that you’ll be glad to own.

1. Study the Motorcycle Model

All motorcycle models are not created equal. Study the year, make, and model of the motorcycle that you are interested in and start researching as much about it as you can. This includes the specifications, consumer reviews, expert reviews, and safety ratings.

Consider watching videos from people who take it for a test ride so that you can see it in action. Study the different recalls that the motorcycle has experienced throughout the years, and find a list of the most reliable used motorcycles on the market.

2. Get the Motorcycle Inspected

Take the time to get your used motorcycle inspected prior to making a purchase. Get it inspected by a third-party licensed and insured motorcycle repair shop that can let you know if it needs some work and whether it’s worth a purchase.

If you’re going to buy a motorcycle with some issues, negotiate the price and try to get the work done prior to closing the deal.

3. find experienced motorcycle accident attorneys

If safety is your primary concern when buying a motorcycle, the best thing you can do is take it for a test run. In doing this, you’ll be able to get a feel for how it rides and handles. The test ride will allow you to gauge your comfort levels so that you can see if it’s a bike you’d be happy to own.

Take the motorcycle throughout the city and on a long stretch of highway so that you can get a feel for the different speeds and changing gears. In doing this, you’ll have more peace of mind knowing that you can handle the bike.

4. Stock Up on Motorcycle Safety Gear

Aside from the motorcycle, you’ll always be safer when you have some safety equipment that you can wear. This will help you out if you happen to ever fall off the motorcycle while riding it.

Quality equipment is one of the most important aspects of motorcycle safety and could be a lifesaver. Look into purchasing a quality helmet, motorcycle safety vest, shin guards, gloves, and other equipment. Buying a motorcycle is always a great time to refresh your inventory of safety equipment and make sure that you have everything that you need.

5. Ask for the Maintenance Logs

Before buying a new motorcycle, you need to also make sure that you’re checking out the maintenance logs. Look into the motorcycle and make sure that the previous owner took excellent care of it and kept it in the shop periodically.

This means a long track record of things like oil changes, transmission flushes, calibrating the gears, and changing out the tires. All of these repairs will give you more longevity from the motorcycle, and it also lets you know that you’ll be safe and sound whenever you’re on the road.

The motorcycle dealer or private owner should be able to produce these maintenance logs for you so that you can verify for yourself that it has been taken care of. Steer clear of motorcycle purchases that don’t come with these types of logs or those that have not been well taken care of.

6. Choose a Bike With Available Parts

You also need to be able to get your motorcycle repaired whenever it needs it. The best step that you can take in this regard is to choose a motorcycle with widely available parts. This means shopping with some of the most popular brands that have a wide variety of compatible parts.

When parts are available, you’ll have no problem getting the most extensive repairs at a great price. You can shop for new and used parts and keep the motorcycle as safe as possible.

7. Add a Warranty Package

One of the best ways to look after the safety of your motorcycle purchase is adding a warranty with it. When you have a warranty, you’ll be able to get some repairs when you need them, along with preventative maintenance.

This warranty will help you manage the care of your motorcycle so that the most important parts are well-kept and so that it doesn’t break down when you’re on the road. Look into the details of the warranty so that you can take advantage of the policy early in the process of owning the vehicle.

8. Have an Accident Lawyer Handy

Finally, make sure that you have recourse if you ever happen to get into a car accident. This means hiring the help of an attorney that specifically tries motorcycle accident cases. There are a variety of personal injury lawyers available that can take your case, and who would be happy to help you get a judgment or settlement that will pay for any damage to your motorcycle, along with medical injuries or pain and suffering that you have incurred.

Take the time to find experienced motorcycle accident attorneys that can represent you if you happen to get into a wreck.

Buy a Used Motorcycle You’ll Appreciate

These tips are helpful when you’re trying to buy a used motorcycle. Once you find the right motorcycle, you’ll be able to hit the open road with full peace of mind. Look for a dealership or private seller that can help you out.

Start with these tips and browse some of our other posts when you’re shopping for a vehicle and other products.