What’s the worst thing that can happen to you after finally purchasing the second-hand motorbike you've been saving up for so long for? Finding out that the motorcycle has been cloned! This is one of the worst nightmares you and other bike buyers can ever face. It is because a cloned bike is made out of stolen parts, and there's a chance that it will be seized even before you can even get to use it often.
Unfortunately for us, distinguishing a legitimate bike from a cloned bike can be particularly challenging. It looks almost just like the real deal. However, there are a few things you can do to reduce the risk of ending up purchasing a cloned bike, and today, we're going to share exactly what those things are:
1. Grab Your Tools
If you are buying the bike privately, don't be afraid to bring the tools with you. In most cases, if the seller's legit, they won't have much of a problem with you opening up the seat to check the code parts. Of course, they may have reasons for you not to, but if you can, check the parts thoroughly to see if they are legitimate.
2. Ask about Insurance
Another thing you need to do apart from looking at the part codes is to ask about the bike's insurance. Many insurance companies offer a pre-inspection of the bike and having a professional drop by to check the bike can give you the confidence to see whether the bike is cloned or not. Also, the professional can inspect for other things like previous signs of an accident, all of which can act as leverage to make the deal sweeter on your end.
3. Pay by Bank Transfer
Whatever you do, never ever pay by cash. A legitimate seller will be more than happy to get paid by bank transfer, but someone who doesn't want to be tracked through payments will only want to be paid in cash. However, paying by bank transfer isn't 100% foolproof. When you do pay by bank transfer, thoroughly examine the address of the bank. The name on the account should reflect the name on the bike's document. If this is the case, then stay away from the bike.
4. Check the Documents
With the bike's document in hand, compare every excruciating detail about the bike with it. Ensure it is registered to the address and the owner. Also, make sure the serial numbers on each part of the bike match the number in the document. If there's anything that's off, you can inquire with the seller about it. If you feel uneasy about the transaction, then look somewhere else for a bike.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the many things you can do to spot a cloned motorcycle. Apart from what we've shared above, other things like checking with the HPI, using a UV torch to look for codes, and bringing a friend to act as a second pair of eyes is a great idea. Regardless, when buying a bike, employ as many of these tips as possible. This way, you have a much higher chance of scrutinizing the motorbike, checking to see if it is a cloned bike or a fully legitimate one! That being said, if you do not want to go through any of the hassles of checking a bike, purchase from a trustworthy and professional second-hand bike seller! This ensures that the bike you want to buy is entirely legitimate, that you won't have to worry about it being a clone!
We Buy Motorbikes is your go-to trustworthy buyer and seller for used motorbikes of various types, including superbikes, enduro, touring, and more. If you are looking to buy and sell a motorcycle in York, reach out to us today!