| g a used bike can be a real challenge. You’ve | | | | · Unscrupulous dealers often pose as private |
| looked around, your phone bills are through the roof | | | | sellers when wanting to rid themselves of a no-seller. |
| and last thing you need is a new ball and chain. So | | | | When buying second hand motorcycles… |
| here are a few pointers… | | | | Check the mechanical safety of the vehicle; there |
| Buying second hand motorcycles from a dealer can | | | | should never be any compromise on this point. Also, |
| be a safer option. Contrary to popular belief, dealers | | | | keep in mind that anyone who buys a stolen vehicle |
| offer a range of benefits you’re not likely to | | | | in South Africa has no rights. |
| receive from a private seller including: | | | | Check the identification numbers. These are the |
| · A 30 day warrantee on the clutch and | | | | number plate or vehicle registration number, the |
| gearbox | | | | vehicle identification number (VIN) and last but not |
| · You receive the maximum protection of | | | | least the engine number. |
| the law | | | | Grey Imports |
| · Obtaining credit is easier | | | | Many of the used bikes in Cape Town are grey |
| · The bike usually comes fully serviced | | | | imports, sounds bad but that just means they were |
| Buying Privately | | | | not imported by registered dealer. Most of the time |
| While buying privately can save time and money, it | | | | the bikes are fine. However, the clock readings on |
| carries more risk. | | | | many of these are not accurate. |
| A number of people have actually purchased used | | | | The best bet would be to consider the condition of |
| bikes in Cape Town that were stolen. In some cases | | | | the bike over what the clock reads. Here you will |
| the vehicle has belonged to a finance company, as it | | | | need the help of someone who knows the |
| was used as security for a lone. A few more pitfalls | | | | mechanics of motorcycles. |
| include: | | | | Take it to the AA |
| · The bike may not have been serviced and | | | | If unsure about the bike, but sure it’s a great |
| does not normally come with a warranty. | | | | deal you’d not like to miss. Take it to the AA |
| · Remember that the buyer also has fewer | | | | for a check up. It’s worth the few hundred |
| rights | | | | Rands you’ll spend. |