Buying a Used Motorcycle — Pre-Purchase Checklist

Run a PPSR check ($2 at ppsr.gov.au) — confirms no finance owing or stolen status

Check the VIN/chassis number matches the rego papers

Research the market price (RedBook, Bikesales, recent sales)

Read common issues for this model (ask Scout or check our research pages)

Confirm the seller's identity — name on rego papers should match

Check for crash damage — scuffed bar ends, pegs, levers, tank dents

Look for rust on the chain, sprockets, brake discs, exhaust

Check tyre tread depth and age (date code on sidewall — older than 5 years = replace)

Inspect fork seals — push down on forks and check for oil weeping

Look underneath for oil leaks around the engine and gearbox

Check coolant level and colour (brown/milky = bad)

Cold start — does it start easily? Any unusual noises?

Let it idle — should be smooth, no hunting or stalling

Check all lights, indicators, horn, and instruments work

Test both brakes — firm feel, no grinding, no pulling to one side

Take it for a test ride — check gearbox shifts smoothly through all gears

Listen for knocking or ticking at operating temperature

Current registration certificate in the seller's name

Service history (logbook stamps or receipts)

Safety certificate / roadworthy (required in QLD for transfer)

Owner's manual and spare keys

Receipts for any aftermarket parts or modifications

Seller wants cash only and refuses to meet at their home address

VIN number doesn't match registration papers

No service history on a bike with 20,000+ kms

Price is significantly below market value (too good to be true)

Seller can't demonstrate the bike running or refuses a test ride

Aftermarket exhaust with no stock pipe available (may fail inspection)

Fresh paint or plastics on an older bike (could be hiding crash damage)