How to Buy a Used BSA Motorcycle

One of the best ways to evaluate the integrity of your used BSA motorcycle is by taking it for a test ride. Although used BSA motorcycle sellers may balk at giving you a test ride for liability reasons, there is a lot to be learned that an inspection can't cover. Since there are liability issues, many states have creates laws that forbids test riding bikes. In many states, you can get one-day insurance policies and plates. For the purposes of our used BSA motorcycle discussion, we'll act as if a friend is selling it to us.

The first rule of thumb when test riding a used BSA motorcycle is to do the test ride after a thorough inspection. Used BSA motorcycles have had safety problems, so an inspection will cover ground. Secondly, negotiating for a used BSA motorcycle means gaining trust with the sellers. Sellers need to be convinced that you plan to buy the bike if you test ride it and that a sale is on the line. If your heart is set on buying the bike if a test ride proves fruitful, give the seller an ultimatum on this condition.

Your pre-ride used BSA motorcycle inspection should include checking for any loose screws, a secure chain, and properly inflated tires. Tires with poor air pressure are a sign of negligence on the dealer. In addition, check its engine, clutch, and brake operations. How well does the used BSA motorcycle start up? How does the clutch feel? Do the brakes work well? For these tests, test ride your used BSA motorcycle to highway speeds of 55 to 65 miles an hour and stop using only the front brake. Check for unnecessary wobbling and over reliance on holding the bars to one side to straighten the motorcycle. Although shaking is normal, make sure it is consistent with its speed and the road. Putting your used BSA motorcycle through a test ride on smooth ground will also help to uncover problems.

A quick read of my other used motorcycle articles will point out more things to check for. Always take it easy during the test ride. In this case, if you crash that used BSA motorcycle, you are required to buy it then. Riding someone else's BSA motorcycle with questions about its mechanical condition beforehand is a no-no. By showing some used motorcycle buying savvy prior, you are near guaranteed to enjoy that BSA motorcycle (despite the company's checkered past!)