Second-Hand Bike Shopping? What You Need To Know Beforehand

Buying a bike is a special occasion for any biker, whether they are buying a new bike or a second-hand one. What makes buying a second-hand bike different from buying a new one is the research the former can require. When you buy a new bike, you have a clear idea of what to expect. With a second-hand bike, the process can be different. You may have to look at several parameters and conduct thorough research to ensure that you select the right second-hand bike. Furthermore, you may also have some queries, such as, whether second-hand bikes require two wheeler insurance, and if so, whether it is transferred from the previous owner, etc. This article is here to help you out.

What to Know Before You Select a Second-Hand Bike 

If you have decided to buy a second-hand bike, here is a stepwise guide you can follow to get started:

1. Decide why you want to buy the bike

To shortlist your bike options, you should think about the reason you want a bike. For instance, if you want a budget-friendly bike for your daily commute, a standard two-wheeler will do. But, if you are looking for a cruiser bike for long rides, then you may have to shell out more money. Along with the price of purchasing the bike, you will also have to deal with different costs in the future, such as fuel, maintenance, premiums to be paid when you Renew bike insurance plan, and so on. These costs can differ from bike to bike. Hence, shortlist the options after careful consideration.

2. Carry out thorough research

Once you have a few options in mind, start researching their availability and prices. You may be quoted different prices for the same bike by different dealers. The price might vary even for the same make and model depending on age and other maintenance factors. You can also look at established online platforms to get a better deal. Another option is to enquire about the same amongst friends and acquaintances.

3. Evaluate the bike

It is crucial to evaluate the bike before going ahead with the purchase. You can list down some important things you need to check when physically evaluating the bike. Keep an eye out for dents, scratches, broken parts, rust, peeling paint, the condition of cables and chains, etc. At this step, you should also check the chassis number on the bike. If it is not visible to you, ask a mechanic to spot it. Make sure that the number on the bike is the same as that on the registration certificate.

4. Take a test ride of the bike

Evaluating the bike on the outside is only one part of the bike inspection. The second important step is to ride the bike yourself to get a clear idea of its merits and demerits. Take note of the lights, horn, indicators, acceleration, smoothness, brakes, and other indicators of performance. If you are not well-versed in riding bikes, then you can request a biker friend or a reliable mechanic to test-ride the bike on your behalf and report you on its performance.

5. Make sure all documents are available

Once you have finalised the bike, you have to make sure all the documents are in place. A list of documents needed for purchasing a second-hand bike is as follows:

1. Registration certificate
2. PUC (Pollution Under Control) certificate
3. Motor insurance policy document - transferred to the new owner’s name
4. RTO Forms 28, 29, and 30
5. Sales receipt

Stay updated with all documentation and legal formalities required to buy a second-hand bike so that the transition is hassle-free.

6. Get a record of previous servicing

Optionally, you can ask the seller for a servicing record of the bike. This will help you get an idea of the previous maintenance that has gone into the bike, which will further help you be prepared for any further maintenance you can expect.

7. Negotiate the price

After you have gone through the above steps, you will become aware of the bike’s merits and demerits. This can help you in the negotiation for the bike’s price.

Secure Your Second-hand Bike with Two-Wheeler Insurance

Along with the bike, you would also receive its insurance policy. Once it’s in your hands, you must renew the bike insurance plan on time to continue receiving its benefits. If you are not satisfied with the insurance plan the previous owner has transferred to you, it may be a good idea to switch to a different plan. A comprehensive two-wheeler insurance plan that covers a wide variety of events would be ideal for all-round protection of your second-hand bike. To get an idea of the premium for such a plan, you can use a two wheeler insurance calculator.* Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under motor insurance policy.   *Standard T&C apply. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.