We recently had a motorcycle come into the shop with some serious issues—far more than the new owner expected. They were told it just needed new rear wheel bearings. That’s why they brought it in.

But as soon as our Imperial mechanic took a look, it was obvious that wasn’t the full story.

The rear brake disc and pads were completely worn out. The chain was overtightened and showed heavy wear. Once we got it on the bench, the list of concerns grew: the rear suspension linkage was shot, the steering head bearings were loose, and after inspecting the 2-stroke engine, it was clear a full engine overhaul was needed.

So, what happened here?

The buyer skipped a motorcycle pre-purchase inspection.

It’s easy to understand why. Motorcycles make people passionate. When someone finds that bike—the one they’ve been chasing—it’s tempting to rush into the purchase. Emotions take the lead, and critical checks get ignored.

But skipping an inspection can turn a “good deal” into a costly mistake.

A Common Mistake

The bike looked good enough on the surface. But years of hard riding and little maintenance had taken their toll. Rusted bearings, worn suspension, and a tired engine aren’t always obvious from a walkaround.

This happens more often than you’d think. Someone falls in love with a bike and takes the seller’s word that it’s in “great shape.” But unless the seller is a certified mechanic, that opinion doesn’t mean much.

Why an Inspection Is Worth It

A proper motorcycle pre-purchase inspection from a trusted motorcycle repair shop like Imperial only takes an hour or two. It gives you a clear picture of what you’re buying—and what it’ll take to get it road-ready. That knowledge also gives you leverage to negotiate a fairer price.

Think about it: replacing tires, brake pads, a chain, and sprockets can easily cost $1,000. Add carb work or engine issues, and you’re looking at $1,500–$2,000 in repairs. Suddenly that “steal” of a deal isn’t so cheap.

Spending $100 or so for peace of mind? That’s a smart investment.

What to Do Before You Buy

If you’re considering a used motorcycle, talk to the seller about having it inspected. You’ll need to work out how to get the bike to the shop, and it’s best to book ahead. Once it’s in the hands of a trusted Imperial mechanic, you’ll know exactly what you're getting into.

And if the seller refuses an inspection? That’s a red flag.

Move on. There are plenty of bikes out there—and your next great ride shouldn’t come with hidden surprises.