Black Horse Finance

Now you should be getting a clearer idea of what you can afford and the kind of bike that will best suit your needs and circumstances.

For example, will you use your bike to commute every day? Or is it mainly for Sunday rides or touring? Will you be riding solo most of the time, or will you have a pillion passenger? The answer to these questions will affect your choice.   Then there are your personal preferences for size, colour, make and performance, which will also influence your final decision.

And to make sure you end up with a fine bike for your money, we’ll give you some pointers for your all-important test ride and help you make simple but informative inspection checks – even prepare effectively for a part-exchange deal:

• New or used?
• Mopeds to superbikes – does size matter?
• What a test ride can tell you
• Bargain or best avoided?
• Inspecting a used bike
• Preparing for part exchange

 

New or used?
The choice between new and used is very much down to personal priorities.

Do you want the latest model to impress your friends and neighbours? Does the latest registration plate mean a lot to you? If you opt for a new bike, there will often be a wide range of offers available to you, such as competitive finance rates, subsidised insurance, or free clothing or accessories.

Maybe you are willing to forego the prestige of a new bike, opting instead for a used bike with none of these offers, but with a lower purchase price.

Most dealerships also offer a wide range of used bikes to cover all budgets. Another option is to consider a pre-registered bike, if available. Foregoing the latest model and buying a one-year-old version can save you thousands, although you’ll usually have to sacrifice the offers associated with a new bike.

Buying a used bike means you can also buy privately, as an alternative to buying through a dealership.

However, while private sales can offer good deals price-wise, you don’t get the warranties and guarantees you would from a dealer. The good news is, Black Horse can provide an independent warranty for used bikes bought through participating dealers, provided they are registered with the Financial Services Authority.

Mopeds to Superbikes – does size matter?
Ultimately this is a personal choice – do you want a large powerful machine to hit the open road, a scooter simply to get around town, or a mid-size bike that can offer the benefits of both.

For most new riders, choice is limited to engine sizes up to 125cc. Once you have gained experience, you can progress to a full licence. For learner riders, many recommend a less powerful machine with an upright riding position, sometimes called a ‘street bike’. A street bike is easier to ride and allows better all round visibility, which is what you need in busy built-up areas. Hybrid road/trials-style bikes are light and versatile for town traffic and country roads and can also be great fun to ride.

What a test ride can tell you
Never agree to buy a motorbike – new or used – without first spending some time with it on the road. Here’s how you can get the most from your test ride:

• If you’re trying a range of bikes, try to do it all in the same day – it’ll be easier to make comparisons.
  
• Most dealers prefer if an appointment can be arranged in advance, so that the bike can be prepared for your ride.
  
• Once you’ve more or less chosen a bike, ask for an extended test ride to make sure it’s the one for you. It’s part of the process, so don’t be shy.
  
• Wherever possible, make sure you ride in a range of environments – built-up areas, country lanes and motorways.
  
• Make sure you can easily get on and off the bike, feel comfortable in the riding position and can reach the ground.
  
• Make sure the engine is cold before you start. And keep an ear out for any unusual sounds, like knocks or rattles and avoid anything that does not select gears easily.
  
• The steering should feel natural and not vibrate.
  
• The brakes should stop the bike without pulling you to the left or right and should not judder in any way.
  
• Always make sure you have insurance to cover your test rides. Most dealers are able to offer cover but beware large excess cover. Make sure you know what you are, and what you are not, covered for before committing to the ride.

Bargain or best avoided? Inspecting a used bike
If you’re buying a used bike, make sure you check it out thoroughly. These simple checks can tell you a lot about a bike’s condition:

• Check the seller actually owns the motorbike.
  
• Check the V5 registration document, service and insurance records, the MOT certificate and any receipts for maintenance or repair work. If the seller cannot provide the V5, it might not be theirs to sell.
  
• View the motorbike in daylight and at the seller's address – which should match the V5 document.
  
• If possible, take a knowledgeable friend with you for a second opinion.
  
• Make sure there’s no outstanding finance from the original purchase. If not, the motorbike may still be the property of a finance house, and not the seller.
  
• If you don’t know much about bike mechanics, it’s worth paying for an independent inspection to ensure the bike is mechanically sound – especially if it’s an expensive bike in a private sale
  
• Check the bike hasn't been 'clocked'. In other words, try to make sure the mileage is consistent with the age and condition of the motorbike.
  
• Look at the bike's history to ensure it’s not stolen or an insurance write-off. You can do this by checking the logbook and matching the frame and engine numbers. If they don’t match, walk away, even if you’ve fallen in love with it.
  
• A quick HPI check establishes a bike's history, including any repairs and motoring offences. For more information visit www.hpicheck.com
  
• Check for rust, cracks and evidence of repairs, accident damage, scratches and dents. Look closely – these are often covered by strategic placement of stickers and decals. If the frame is even slightly dented, walk away. This could be a sign of unrepaired damage which may indicate an unreported accident.
  
• Turn the ignition to check the engine starts properly and doesn't smoke, and that there are no leaks under the bike.
  
• Check the chain is clean, lubricated and in good condition and the rear sprocket isn't damaged or worn.
  
• Make sure that the suspension works smoothly and without sticking or binding.
  
• If the bike has a centre stand, use it to lift the front wheel off the ground. Check that the steering goes from lock to lock smoothly (not going from notch to notch) and that no cables or other controls get trapped.

 

Preparing for part-exchange
If you’re looking to part-exchange on a used bike, make sure you cover all the points above to ensure you’re getting the best deal. Also, have the paperwork ready:

• V5C registration document
• MOT certificate
• Service history

Have your spare keys available, too, and give the bike a thorough clean to create a good impression.

Have your spare keys available, too, and give the bike a thorough clean to create a good impression.