What should you look out for when buying a used motorcycle? Things to take note of during the transfer process? Details can be found here!

Itching to ride in that stylish Honda sportbike which caught your eyes, but financial woes holding you down from getting a brand new one? Purchasing it from a private seller is a wallet-friendly alternative. We guide you through the process of doing so and highlight a few important factors to take note.

First and foremost, why buy a used motorcycle? For one, you will be paying much lesser for a second-hand motorbike, as the value of the motorcycle will have depreciated. The value of a new bike can depreciate a lot in the first few years, so you may end up paying even half of the original price. You will also be able to save on stuff such as dealer’s fees. Various other reasons could include the fact that you only plan to use it for a short while (so you can sell it off a few years later without losing as much of the original value you paid), or you may be a fairly inexperienced driver looking to amass experience before getting a new bike.

Secondly, do adequate research online. What is your reason for buying a used bike? How often will you be riding it? They are many different types of motorcycles in the market catered to different interests, namely Street bikes, Sportbikes, Scooters, etc.

Once you are able to see the bike, inspect it thoroughly for any damage. Some pointers to take note and what you should look out for:

• Any presence of rusting/ scratches/ bumps/ flaking paint/ cracks on the bodywork and frame?
• Is the windshield properly mounted?
• Are the tires worn out? Are they free from dinks? Check the tread depth and presence of any embedded objects.
• Are the wheels’ spokes bent? Any presence of dents?
• Are the handlebars straight and easy to turn?
• Is the chain rusty? Is it properly lubricated/ free of grime? Check the front and rear sprockets, are they bent?
• Are the brake pads thick and working well? Is the brake fluid clean?
• Is the engine very noisy/ takes a long time/ difficult to start?
• Do the brakes/clutch/transmission slip while the motorcycle is in motion?
• Do the signals/lights work well?
• Any leaks in the engine oil/fuel/hydraulic fluid?
• Is the seat comfortable, and predominantly free of wear and tear?
• Are the front forks and rear shock in good condition? Are the fork tubes straight, and parallel? Any leaks on the front seals/rear shock?

The list above is non-exhaustive. Also, request to see the service records, previous owners, etc. It’s best to bring someone experience to help inspect with you before purchasing it, as well as checking details such as remaining road tax, late payment of fines and last inspection date of the motorcycle with the seller, or the Land Transport Authority (LTA). Feel free to enquire whenever in doubt.

Thirdly, once you are satisfied with the bike’s condition, arrange an appointment with the seller to LTA for the official transfer of the bike’s ownership. You may need to pay a deposit to the seller. Do note that apart from the transfer fee, there may be other hidden costs you may have to fork out, such as motorcycle maintenance fees. Prior to transferring ownership at LTA, ensure that you have a Third Party insurance policy (at minimum) for the bike that you are planning to buy. Else buying through our motorcycle insurance online will help you save the time of sourcing through numerous channels just to get a motorbike insurance.

Also, make sure that the seller has fully paid off his installments for the bike under the Hire Purchase scheme. If not, LTA will disallow the transfer.

We have attached a few forms which will aid you in the transfer process. Only the LTA Application Form is mandatory and must be submitted to LTA.

LTA Transfer Form: (Completed and signed by seller and buyer)

Motorcycle Sales Agreement Form: (Document detailing the handover of motorcycle, complete with seller and buyer’s information, transaction details, as well as Terms and Conditions to adhere)

Motorcycle Receipt for Deposit: (Document stating proof of any monetary transaction/payment made)

Motorcycle Handing Over Form: (Document specifying an ownership transfer of said motorcycle from seller to buyer)

Lastly, at LTA, there are documents which you have to produce. Apart from the aforementioned LTA Transfer Form and insurance certificate, you will have to bring an identification document (NRIC, Employment Pass, Passport) and a transfer fee of SGD$11. More details can be found on the One Motoring website.

When the transaction at LTA is completed, the bike is officially yours! Have fun riding with it, and we hope you find this article helpful!

Updated Article 2019 On how to transfer motorcycle ownership online found here.