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Towards structurally sound bikes
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Out hunting for that superbike? RISHAD COOPER, in the second part of a series, points you in the right direction
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As with most vehicles, the heart of the matter is the engine. While other flaws can be inexpensively and satisfactorily fixed, an engine setback will cause immense grief. A structurally unsound bike is also unpardonable. Check for chassis damage by lifting fairing panels randomly. A messed-up chassis is easy to spot and near impossible to fix. Also lookout for a damaged crankcase, that points to a previous love affair with tarmac and dented wheel rims. Fork pipes should be true and never bent. When the bike is parked with the steering column in its central position and the front wheel dead straight, the rear wheel should be perfectly in line with the front. Any discrepancy indicates a damaged chassis.
The bike should start easily; if it doesn't, it indicates a poor battery or damaged starter. If you test and find the battery to be perfectly healthy, and the bike still refuses to start, the deal could be dangerous. The bike should idle steadily with no signs of sputtering or repeated stalling once at running temperature. When on the move, the motorcycle should engage gears smoothly. The clutch should be snatch or slip-free.
The engine should be able to pull through the entire power band in each gear with no hiccups or misfiring. The engine should settle quickly into its regular operating temperature range and not overheat. All warning lights should stay off under normal conditions, but must light up satisfactorily should something go wrong.
Keep it in shape
Enquiring about previous service bills is a good idea, to know what the bike has been through. If you notice anything amiss, forget about the bike. Always ask the previous owner for service manuals on the model and make yourself a copy.
Preferably, buy from a dealer who offers service support. That way you are less likely to wait for parts or service than other mechanics. Most modern-day large capacity motorcycles are sophisticated machines that require expert care and cannot be serviced by incompetent mechanics as this may cause serious damage. Do remember that spare parts are expensive and often unavailable in India. Do not lend the bike to a novice, for that's recipe for disaster. After informing your mechanic of your riding style and dislikes, ask your mechanic to set up your bike to your personal requirements and tastes.
While putting the bike at rest on its side stand, ensure it is on firm ground to avoid a mishap. Have it checked up by a mechanic from time to time. Make sure to change engine oil periodically as per manufacturer specifications. Considering India's harsh conditions, you'd do well to change the oil at even shorter intervals, say 10 percent shorter than the manufacturer suggests. The one big favour you can do your bike is wiping it clean on a daily basis. Despite this, get it pressure-washed and polished monthly. Wipe it with a soft cloth daily and keep dust away. Start it regularly when not in use and store it carefully. Avoid direct sunlight, which will harm paint and plastics.
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Metro Plus
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