What to look for when buying a street bike?

I always wanted a bike and I finally have time to enjoy it. I got my temps and called around for some classes.I have been looking on craigslist and eBay and I'm stumped on what to look for when purchasing a bike. I don't know a thing about bikes and I really don't know anyone with the knowledge to say its a good buy.some pointers would be great. Thanks

What type of bike are you looking for, cruiser or sport?

Go to your local bike dealership and sit on a few, but don't walk in there like a newbie and ask for the fastest bike they have, you're gonna hurt yourself. If you're looking at sport bikes look at a few 600's.

If your gonna buy from of craigslist or ebay take someone with you that knows a thing or two about bikes. Asking the normal questions like "has it ever been dropped" or "are you the original owner" will only get you so far, there are signs on the bike that will tell you if it's worth it or not.

First off I would say go to every bike shop around and sit on every bike you can find, you are simply looking for what is comfortable and "fits" you. Second I would recommend you buy from a dealership so you have some recourse if there is a problem later on. Third would be to call your insurance agent BEFORE you buy anything as there are many bikes that are becoming non-insurable due to all the youngsters out there getting on bikes that are so power full they wreck them. A smaller {cc} bike is usually a good starting point, like a 250-500-650 Kawasaki Ninja or a SV650 Suzuki if you like sport bike styles and there are lots of cruisers in the 500-750cc sizes. If you buy from a private party take the bike to a dealership and have it checked out BEFORE you buy, it's usually about $50.00 but it beats finding out 2 days later that the motor needs a rebuild {or worse}. Don't forget to allow some money for a good Helmet and Jacket {my Hein Gerick leathers are over 20 years old and still fabulous} but the new textile jackets are nice also.

hey im buying a sports bike to im looking at the kawasaki models i love em but im letting you know now if you get a used bike you are not gonna get what you want my dad got a used bike (good condition looks nice) but he has to work on it a lot. only get a used one if you cant find a cheap new one its definently not worth it! im getting a new one and take good care of it but i recomend a GSXR 600cc 2008 bike its pretty cheap reliable and most important FAST!!! good luck on finding a bike

Dont buy someone elses problems.

By new, warranties are your friend

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