Summer has just begun, and you are still scooterless. The best way is to buy a new scooter. In that case, you get peace of mind, a warranty, and more financing opportunities. But if you are reading this post, you are probably on a budget, and I am here to help you buy a used scooter with the least possible risk.
You need to keep the following in mind before buying a used scooter:
Action A | Preparation
1. Make A Budget To Buy A Used Scooter
Your budget should be enough for both buying the scooter and pay the service and consumable parts. If someone sells a used bike, it is very likely worn out. Don’t make the mistake of using the entire budget just for the scooter price. Be prepared when negotiating with the seller and have some basic info about the cost for repairing and spare parts.
If you want to save, watch this video to learn how to perform the essential maintenance.
2. Do Research On The Desired Model And Brand Of The Scooter
If you are buying a used scooter, be sure to choose a premium brand. In that case, It’s more likely that you can get a good bank for the buck. A premium brand model haves spare parts in the long run and a better community. Google it and make a decision on a couple of models which you will hunt in the marketplace.
Learn about the performance and features of your potential scooter. Ask for reviews from real people who already have that model. Do not rely on manufacturers’ promotional items.
Make sure that scooter parts are still being produced.
The scooter, like any vehicle, is worn out and no matter how careful we are, make sure that you periodically have to replace the existing parts with new ones. When researching which scooter is suitable for you, make sure there are spare parts for the scooter you like. Also, check if they are available in your area and what the future predictions are in general.
3. Tell Your Friends About Your Idea To Buy A Scooter
The best way to buy a scooter is to buy it from a friend. Or his friend. In that case, you will be sure of the actual condition of the scooter. Every true friend will tell you the service history and any repairs you need to make.
If you do not have the luck to buy a scooter from someone you know, it is time for online market research.
4. Do Market Research Online
Now it’s time to research the scooter market. Sites like Craigslist, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, etc., are full of used scooters. From the research done so far, find the best ads possible. The offers could be accurate with good quality photos but not photoshopped. The ad voice should be regular and not too salesy. If there are any, you especially appreciate pictures with flaws. Make a favorite list and notes ready.
Action B | Contact the seller
5. According To Your Research vs. Market Offer, Choose a Pick.
You are buying a used scooter. Be ready for some scratches here and there, faded color, and rusty exhaust… But don’t be disappointed. Choose the one which the most trustworthy and most honest seller. Stick with the steps below, and after, I will provide you everything you need for shiny scoot in the Garage Manual Section.
6. Get In Touch With The Seller
Send an email to the seller and tell him your interest in buying the scooter. If the answer is positive, make sure to ask for phone communication. So you can make a more human relationship.
You have now some background info from the research, emphasize your knowledge, and ask the seller couple of questions:
- Ask about the production year and mileage. It is vital to get an idea of how accurate the information is in the ad about the mileage and general condition of the scooter.
- Ask about the necessary scooter documentation. If there is no any, do not waste your time.
- Ask about any critical repairs lately.
If you get answers that will warm you up, ask to see the scooter in person.
Action C | In the Field: Inspection in person
7. Bring a Friend Who Understands Scooters. You Check The Documentation.
If you are reading this post, you are certainly not an expert on scooters. Bring a friend who is into mechanics or someone who has experience with scooters. If you do not have such a friend, it is worth paying for a mechanic to come with you.
Check the service book of the scooter. If the owner has a service book, check and try to make sure it is original. Check service types, dates, and mileage. Make sure there is nothing unusual. It is always good to buy a scooter with a service history.
8. Is The Scooter Starts At All? How Does It Sound?
If the scooter can not start does not mean that it is dead. Maybe that’s a good sign. If someone drove it quite a bit and then left it for a long time without using it, it is a great deal. Of course, you will lose some time and some money to get it back inactive condition. If it is a Vespa before the ’70s, you hit the jackpot.
How does the engine sound? If it is smooth without changing frequencies and loud knocking, it’s just fine.
7. What Does The Scooter Look Like? Is There Any Significant Damage?
Once I was buying a used scooter, I asked the owner whether the scooter has any aesthetic damage. He told me: after you buy a new scooter, even if you keep it in the bedroom, believe me, you will scratch it. It is one thing to be scratched; another is to have the whole structure bent. Not a big deal if the scooter has minor damage. You can use that fact in negotiating the price. If you notice that the fork is bent or the tires are not in the ideal ratio, do not buy such a scooter.
8. Does The Scooter Have Keys?
Ask the scooter owner if he owns all the original scooter keys. First of all, if he has the keys, it is a good sign that he is careful and a good owner. Second, it is proper for security and protection for someone else not to have the same key. Maybe the seller really has only one key. In that case, if you buy that scooter, change the lock at the local locksmith and make at least 2 identical keys.
9. What Do The Scooter Tires Look Like?
The condition of the tires is very important for the overall experience of riding the scooter. If the tires are not in good condition, keep in mind that you should replace them with new ones immediately after buying the scooter. If the scooter tires are used and in average condition, check the level of wear and the year of production. If they are older than 5 years, they are unusable.
10. Do The Scooter Brakes Work?
When you do a test drive, try the scooter brakes. If you hear scratching, the pads should be changed immediately. But If the brakes are noiseless and have smooth handle traction, it means they are in good condition.
11. Do The Scooter Lights Work?
Check the lights on the scooter. Check the turn signals and lights on the control panel. The bulbs themselves may not be costly, but their installation requires the disassembly of a good part of the scooter’s protective parts. It can cost time and money. Spoiled lights can be a good argument in negotiating the price of a scooter.
12. How Worn Is The Scooter Exhaust?
Look at the exhaust on the scooter. Check if it is very rusty. If there is a need for a new exhaust, it is probably more expensive than the installation, which is quite simple.
Action D | Take It or Leave It
13. Ask The Seller If He/She Can Let You Do A Test Drive.
Try the scooter. Make sharp turns, try the brakes, feel the acceleration. Hear and feel how the engine works. Check driving comfort. Are you happy driving it? Is this your new scooter?
14. Determine The Seller Personality And The Final Price
Even before you go to see the scooter in person, estimate who you are talking to. Maybe it’s a reseller selling crumbs. Always ask why he is selling the scooter. Try to establish a friendly relationship and get as much accurate information as possible.
And lastly, ask for the final price!
15. Do Not Rush To Buy a Scooter Right Away. But…
Do not rush into a decision. Analyze all the pros and cons of the scooter and decide if it is for you and your needs. Keep in mind that the market is very active, and there will always be something just for you.
But if the above checklist is positive and the price is fair, that scooter is the right choice for you.
In that case, congratulations on your new scooter!
Do you still have a dilemma about whether you should buy a 50cc or 125cc scooter? Check out my blog post to find out what the differences are and what’s best for you.