India is home to one of the largest markets for used two-wheelers in the world. From scooters to motorcycles, these two-wheelers are the lifeline of daily commuters. A first personal buy for many, a second-hand two-wheeler serves the purpose of being more than just a mode of transport. It is a dream for the rural and semi-urban population of India to own their private vehicle. Especially now more than ever, the fear of infection from travelling via public transport during a pandemic is real. This fear has led to the rising demand for used two-wheelers as a medium of safe personal mobility.
Pre-owned also means pre-loved, which means it’s going to save you money. While the thought of buying a used two-wheeler sounds economical, there are quite a few things you need to check off first.
If you have set your heart on a used two-wheeler, below are some tips and suggestion to help you get the best deal for your money:
Do Your Research
When making important decisions like buying your first vehicle, you need to have adequate knowledge of the market. While you prepare yourself to buy a pre-owned bike, do some background check about the model. The purpose you are purchasing the vehicle for, its mileage, and other design features that an owner should know in advance.
Having an in-depth knowledge of your options will keep you alert from fraudulent sellers. Different resellers offer different prices; the age and usage will also determine the cost of the vehicle.
Find a Credible Seller
Finding a reputed seller of second-hand vehicles today is not difficult if you know where to look. Digital platforms like CredR, one of India’s most trusted second-hand two-wheeler brands, allow private buyers to both buy and sell pre-owned bikes. A reputed brand like this will not only offer end to end services to customers but value-added benefits like servicing by auto experts, contactless delivery, free 6 months warranty, assured buyback value, and more.
The best way to find the best bike for you is to take a trial of different bikes and evaluate their suitability based on your needs.
Inspect The Vehicle
Impressions can be deceiving, which makes physical inspection of the used two-wheeler the most important part of your buy. Without a thorough inspection, you may miss out on minor but important details like whether the bike has been well maintained, visible scratches, etc. The process of inspecting the vehicle is a crucial step if you are purchasing the bike from local dealers. Online portals like CredR offer over 120+ checkpoints along with an auto expert’s opinion, making it a more credible purchase.
However, when purchasing a used two-wheeler, there are two important checks required irrespective of where you buy it. They are:
Mechanical check
- Oil-leaks: Check around the engine area and carefully inspect for any oil leaks.
- Rust: The metal parts of the two-wheeler catch rust with time. While minor surface rust can be treated; rusted body parts are a matter of concern.
- Scratches & Dents: Scratches are inevitable due to the growing congestion on roads and overcrowded parking lots. While a small scratch here or there is acceptable a big dent may spoil the overall look of your two-wheeler.
- Accident Damage: Make sure the used two wheels you are buying is in top condition.
- Check Engine Health: Turn on the ignition of the bike to check engine health. Get the engine checked by an expert for any fumes as a result of worn-out engine parts.
- Mileage Check: Check whether the used two-wheeler has covered more or fewer kilometres than stated. Wear and tear of tires are often true mileage indicators of the bike.
- Test Ride: Only once you are completely satisfied with the test drive, proceed with the purchase.
Paper-work check
With all mechanical checks under control, check the paperwork of your vehicle before making the final payment.
- Registration Certificate or RC book: Always ensure you are buying a used two-wheeler from a trusted source. If the dealer or online brand doesn’t, you need to verify the name of the owner, engine & chassis number, make, model, etc., from the Registration Certificate.
- Insurance: Check if the vehicle has valid insurance.
- PUC Certificate (Pollution Under Control): As per the Indian motor vehicle act, every motor vehicle needs a valid PUC certificate, so check if your two-wheeler has a valid PUC, otherwise you can get one done.
- Service History: Any authorized two-wheeler reseller will have a full-service history record from credible service centres. It is a record that the two-wheeler has been regularly serviced and is in good condition for resale.
Negotiation and Payment
Based on both your assessment and an auto expert’s opinion, the final price can be negotiated. However, if buying from a reputed brand like CredR, you will already have access to festive discounts on used bikes, along with ongoing other regular offers. On the payment front, you can buy any bike by availing an EMI plan.
Only once you are satisfied with your purchase should you finalize the paperwork and make the payment.
