Table of contents
- Advice on used bikes from 1000 to 4000 euros Bargain motorcycles
- Second-hand advice: bargain
- Up to € 1000
- Kawasaki GPZ 500
- Honda NTV 650 Revere
- Suzuki GS 500 E.
- Up to € 2000
- Kawasaki ZXR 400
- Yamaha FZS 600 Fazer
- Up to 3000 €
- Yamaha XJR 1200
- Kawasaki ZR-7S
- Honda Hornet 900
- Up to € 4000
- Honda CBF 500 ABS
- Suzuki GSX 1400
- On inspection and test drive: checkpoints for buyers
- Five steps to a bargain
- Hunting for bargain hunters: the trappers
- Price comparison: used motorcycles under 4000 euros
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counselor
Used purchase
Used motorcycles between 1000 and 4000 euros
Advice on used bikes from 1000 to 4000 euros
Bargain motorcycles
It wasn’t actually on the shopping list at all. But the beautiful bike lured with an outrageously low price. And since love is known to be blind, here are some suggestions to help you avoid grief.
Jorg Lohse
09/10/2009
Second-hand advice: bargain
fact
Opportunity makes love.
What is a bargain? Opinions on this vary widely. In any case, it is certainly not simply the cheapest offer that can be found. Quite the opposite: Most of the time, such enticing prices have three to four horse feet, which later spoil the fun of the supposedly cheap purchase. For example, after a few hundred kilometers, a whole battery of wear parts suddenly has to be replaced or the technical condition is far beyond being in top shape.
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Offers that are advertised on the ramps of the Hamburg fish market, for example, through a fat extra package of accessories and conversion parts, which are intended to make them particularly attractive, must be viewed equally critically. Here, too, a critical consumer eye is required. First of all with the self-assessment: Do I need all of this at all??
What is and remains important during the on-site inspection: Is all of the extra and accessory parts technically and legally harmless, is the function still correct and is the TuV approval available? And last but not least, you should of course ask yourself whether suspicious traces of accidents should not be concealed with the advertised special paint and carbonized lid on the housing, swing arm or fork. When buying a motorcycle, of course, a lot of gut instinct is required, but a solid technical check should never be missing.
Of course, speed and spontaneity count when buying a bargain. Under no circumstances should you let the seller talk you into this, according to the motto: In five minutes someone will come who has already counted the money in his hand. If you want to be sure that you have really got a bargain, you cannot avoid exploring the market carefully beforehand. Which models are doing well, which are like lead on the Internet and are considered grandfather clocks by dealers in the area?
Collected enough ammunition? Then off to the bargain hunt. Ten attractive prey patterns are released for shooting on the following pages.
Up to € 1000
BILLION
The price range in which it is particularly difficult to get a bargain. Because everything that can somehow still be turned into money is crowded here. Alleged enticement offers such as real big bikes like the Honda CBR 1000 F often turn out to be badly ridden specimens that require extensive and expensive repairs within a very short time. Also questionable: Youngtimers with illustrious names from the 80s.
Neither technically nor visually up to date, and blessed with astronomically high mileage or downtime. If you don’t want to exceed your budget of 1000 euros, you shouldn’t be blinded by name (“a real cult bike”) or size (“a real 1000”), but should act particularly rationally. Tip: Pay attention to well-cared for bread-and-butter bikes.
Kawasaki GPZ 500
manufacturer
Kawasaki GPZ 500.
A long-term runner from the Kawa range: the very healthy and easy-to-turn series twin was offered from 1987 to 2003. Initially with single-disc brakes at the front and poisonous drum brakes at the rear. Also nervous: the handling with the small 16-inch wheels. The second generation from 1994 is significantly better with contemporary 17-inch tires and rear disc brakes. Anyone looking for a sporty universal motorcycle should consider the 500 series, which has been sold in Germany 24,000 times. Many models from the late nineties can be found on the used market in good condition for well under 1000 euros.
Data: (Year of construction 1997)
Water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 499 cm³, 44 kW (60 PS) at 9800 rpm, chain, weight 202 kg, tank capacity 18 l, seat height 770 mm, top speed 182 km / h, consumption (country road) 5.1 l / 100 km, normal gasoline
Price example:
First registration 4/1997, 58333 kilometers, new tires, freshly inspected, well-kept original condition, from private, 799 euros *
Honda NTV 650 Revere
archive
Honda NTV 650 Revere.
The gray mouse from the range of the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. The V-Twin was in the range from 1988 to 1997 and sold over 15,000 times in total. Technically, the 650 was able to shine with a number of goodies such as a chic single-sided swing arm and a clean cardan drive. The first year was still annoying with teething troubles (soft chassis, play in the drive train, seat bench that quickly sagged), but these were resolved in the second model year. To this day, the NTV 650, which had the surname Revere until 1993, enjoys the nimbus of indestructibility among touring enthusiasts. Those who value the lowest possible odometer reading should be patient when searching.
Data: (Year of construction 1995)
Water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke V-engine, 647 cm³, 39 kW (53 PS) at 7500 / min, cardan, weight 212 kg, tank capacity 19 l, seat height 785 mm, top speed 175 km / h, consumption (country road) 3.4 l / 100 km, regular gasoline
Price example:
First registration 9/1991, 40,000 kilometers, new HU, AU and tires, inspected annually, by private, 1100 euros basis for negotiation *
Suzuki GS 500 E.
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Suzuki GS 500 E..
The crowd does it. The has been sold over 51,000 times GS 500 E since the premiere year 1989. Coupled with their Biedermann image, this means for the used market: a wide range at dumping prices. This does not affect the enjoyment of motorcycling offered by the bread-and-butter bike: the mechanics are considered to be durable and robust, but during the test drive you should watch out for a howling gear, which indicates a defective gear wheel. The constant theme of the Twin is the gnawing rust, which can hit even in hidden places like in the tank. Interested parties can pick real raisins from the current range on the used market.
Data: (Built in 1989)
Water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 487 cm³, 33 kW (45 PS) at 9000 rpm, chain, weight 189 kg, tank capacity 17 l, seat height 740 mm, top speed 177 km / h, consumption (country road) 4.4 l / 100 km, normal gasoline
Price example:
First registration 9/1995, 31,700 kilometers, from private 900 euros *
Up to € 2000
BILLION
Interesting playground for everyone who is looking for modern motorcycle technology from the 90s or who would like to put a well-maintained Japanese classic in the garage. In this price region, the wheat is slowly being separated from the chaff: the offers are becoming significantly more serious, and you have more leeway when exploring the price, or you can meet suppliers who are willing to negotiate. What to buy now Anyone looking for a no-frills entry-level bike like the Kawasaki ER-5 Twister interested, it is being advertised as brand new in this price range. There are also numerous enthusiast models from recent motorcycle history such as the interesting 400 class from Honda (CBR 400 RR, VFR 400 and CB-1) or exotic models from Italy, such as the rustic Moto Guzzi V 35.
Kawasaki ZXR 400
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Kawasaki ZXR 400.
Finding a sports bike for less than 2000 euros is difficult. Either you come across ancient relics from the 80s or heavily ridden 600s from the 90s with a very questionable history. So downsizing is the order of the day. And it’s really worth it: Kawasaki’s ZXR 400, originally designed only for the Japanese market, found its fans in this country from 1991 to 1999. According to the KBA inventory, 3200 pieces are on German roads. Lover is exactly the right keyword when it comes to the condition of the 400s. Because in terms of care and value-preserving measures (e.g. with an accessory shock absorber), used ZXR types offer a lot. The high-revving Kawa is dynamic just as it looks: an uncompromising athlete, just right for brisk wiggling on both home and racetracks.
Data: (Year of construction 1991)
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 398 cm³, 48 kW (65 PS) at 13,000 rpm, chain, weight 185 kg, tank capacity 16 l, seat height 790 mm, top speed 207 km / h, consumption (country road) 5.0 l / 100 km, normal gasoline
Price example:
First registration 1/2000, 18012 kilometers, dealer, 1750 euros *
Yamaha FZS 600 Fazer
manufacturer
Yamaha FZS 600 Fazer.
The new Fazer, introduced in 1998, was a real hit with its super sporty 600cc engine. In the meantime, demand for second-hand vehicles has fallen sharply. Here the experienced bargain hunter listens: That sounds like a brave round of poker during the price negotiations. The equivalent is always right; because against the bundle of notes there is a sporty all-purpose device that is fun even when touring with a large tank and low consumption. The unproblematic set-up is accompanied by powerful brakes, and the Fazer has impressively demonstrated its stability in the MOTORRAD endurance test over 50,000 kilometers.
Data: (Year of construction 2001)
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 599 cm³, 70 kW (95 PS) at 11500 rpm, chain, weight 217 kg, tank capacity 20 l, seat height 800 mm, top speed 221 km / h, consumption (country road) 4.4 l / 100 km, normal gasoline
Price example:
First registration 3/1998, 46,800 kilometers, very well maintained, throttled to 34 hp, 95 hp set available, from private, 2100 euros negotiable basis *
Up to 3000 €
BILLION
More money equals more displacement. Sounds like a simple basic formula, but it is. Without a doubt, you can also find a real mallet for less than 1500 euros, but usually in a deplorable condition: be it due to almost six-figure mileage, material-killing all-year-round work or courageous conversion attempts including paint application from the spray can. At around 3000 euros, the range of fat engines is much more attractive. And best of all: You can’t tell the age of the displacement cars floating on the neo-naked wave. Even twelve year old big bikes still look fresh and crisp. The purchase alternative in this price region: tried-and-tested mid-range bikes, less than five years old, with exemplary checkbook maintenance and, if bought from a dealer, with a workshop or used guarantee as well.
Yamaha XJR 1200
manufacturer
Yamaha XJR 1200.
Are you looking for a classic naked bike that doesn’t start with Suzuki and end with Bandit? Then take a look at these: Yamaha’s XJR 1200, in the range from 1995 to 1998, not only offers something for the eye, but also scores with touring fans thanks to its high-torque four-cylinder (from the FJ 1200) and comfortable space. Less pleasing in the four-in-line were the 130 front tires, the soft fork and the hard struts. It’s good that many previous owners have already taken on these things and converted to a 120 format (parts certificate available) as well as progressive fork springs and higher-quality struts.
Data: (Year of construction 1995)
Air-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 1188 cm³, 72 kW (98 PS) at 8000 rpm, chain, weight 253 kg, tank capacity 21 l, seat height 790 mm, top speed 217 km / h, consumption (country road) 5.1 l / 100 km, normal gasoline
Price example:
First registration 4/1996, 28,900 kilometers, very well maintained, by private, 2799 euros *
Kawasaki ZR-7S
manufacturer
Kawasaki ZR-7S.
No more retro, towards more objectivity, it was said when Team Green launched the ZR-7 in 1999 and slowly let the Zephyr 750 phase out. Interesting for price foxes is the 2001 S version with a touring half-shell, which was in the range until 2004, before the angular streetfighter design of the Z 750 hit stores. That was the ZR-7S Quickly forget what also means: used little in demand and that with registration numbers of around 9,200 units. The best basis for a tough sales pitch. Quickly once again the essentials from the top test result for the ZR-7S: thoroughly honest, rock solid, inexpensive. And with driving dynamics that should not be underestimated on winding roads.
Data: (Year of construction 2001)
Air-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 739 cm³, 56 kW (76 PS) at 9500 rpm, chain, weight 234 kg, tank capacity 22 l, seat height 810 mm, top speed 205 km / h, consumption (country road) 5.0 l / 100 km, regular gasoline
Price example:
First registration 3/2004, 14,600 kilometers, 1st hand, full service history, from private, 3050 euros basis for negotiation *
Honda Hornet 900
Jahn
Honda Hornet 900.
At Honda, it’s always a good idea to look a little outside of the mainstream. What the general public did not want to buy is by no means a bad motorcycle. The Hornet 900 clearly falls into the understatement bike category. Its heart beats the thousandfold proven four-cylinder from the 1998 Fireblade, around it the simple, for this purpose slightly reinforced central tube frame from the little sister Hornet 600 holds everything together. On the road, a harmonious composition of balanced driving behavior, high directional stability, agile handling and first-class steering precision unfolds. The bottom line is a great package of ergonomics, stability and everyday use.
Data: (Year of construction 2004)
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 919 cm³, 80 kW (109 PS) at 9000 / min, chain, weight 219 kg, tank capacity 19 l, seat height 790 mm, top speed 205 km / h, consumption (country road) 5.0 l / 100 km, regular gasoline
Price example:
First registration 6/2003, 27,000 kilometers, many extras, TuV, AU and inspection new, from private, 3199 euros basis for negotiation *
Up to € 4000
BILLION
With 4,000 euros you have a comfortable cushion for the used purchase. What is there for it? The range is wide. On the one hand, entry-level or mid-range bikes that are almost brand new, including quite a few specimens with only four-digit odometer reading. On the other hand, the first racers from the 600 league are now coming into focus, giving a coherent picture in terms of technology, maintenance condition and mileage. In between big bikes, choppers and cruisers of all stripes. Bargain hunters can also get their money’s worth, as the sale of new machines sometimes means that the prices of similarly positioned used bikes also plummet. Fall is an ideal opportunity to go on the prowl with this financial cushion.
Honda CBF 500 ABS
manufacturer
Honda CBF 500 ABS.
If the Honda CBF 600 is something like the Golf in the motorcycle warehouse, then its little sister with 500 cubic meters should definitely have the status of a Polo. The series twin was offered from 2004 to 2007. For an additional charge of 600 euros, there was an upgrade to the ABS brake, which around two thirds of all new machine buyers ordered. The motorcycle is just right for those who are looking for “easy going”. The CBF is a typical modular bike: the reliable motor of the CB 500, chassis of the CBF 600 and many other things that are used in the larger 600 series. For those interested in used, this means: proven technology that should not cause any problems. And why not go straight to the stronger sister? Because the under 4000 euros is hardly available with ABS.
Data: (Year of construction 2006)
Water-cooled two-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 499 cm³, 42 kW (57 HP) at 9500 rpm, chain, weight 211 kg, tank capacity 19 l, seat height 770 mm, top speed 187 km / h, fuel consumption (country road) 4 , 0 l / 100 km, regular gasoline
Price example:
First registration 10/2005, 3500 kilometers, ABS, extras, checkbook maintenance, from private, 3800 euros basis for negotiation *
Suzuki GSX 1400
archive
Suzuki GSX 1400.
The bike for everyone who drives according to the principle: There is no substitute for displacement, except with more displacement. In fact, Suzuki went a long way by juxtaposing the Bandit 1200 with the 1400 GSX in 2001. In contrast to the successful mass model, this should fish in the premium league. Technically, the Big Four shone with exemplary values in terms of smoothness and torque. In addition to the rather average 106 hp, there is an outstanding 128 Nm maximum torque. The chassis is fully adjustable, neat aluminum and stainless steel parts complete the picture successfully. The retro-look naked bike also scores points on the ergonomic side, pleasing on brisk country road excursions as well as on dignified tours for two.
Data: (Year of construction 2004)
Air / oil-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 1402 cm³, 78 kW (106 PS) at 6800 rpm, chain, weight 254 kg, tank capacity 22 l, seat height 790 mm, top speed 225 km / h, consumption (country road) 5, 1 l / 100 km, regular gasoline
Price example:
First registration 8/2001, 43,000 kilometers, all inspections at Suzuki, original condition, from private, 3500 euros fixed price *
On inspection and test drive: checkpoints for buyers
There are also no all-round carefree packages for used motorcycles, for example if they are provided with a so-called “used guarantee” by dealers, in which, however, a number of parts and work can be excluded. That is why a thorough check, including a detailed test drive, is a must for a conscientious buyer when buying second-hand goods. The most important points are:
fact
Is the engine still tight? Check again for oil loss after the test drive.
Check the oil level:
Too low a level indicates heavy oil consumption and / or careless maintenance. After the test drive, check whether the engine sweats oil.
Coolant:
Examine hoses, clamps and cooler for traces of water and check that the fluid level is correct.
fact
Steering head bearing defective? Completely relieve the front wheel, then swivel the steering.
Steering head bearing:
Pull the brake, compress the fork, feel for play on the bearing shells with your fingers, listen for cracking noises. Relieve the front wheel: If the handlebar engages when moving from lock to lock, the steering head bearing is defective.
fact
Fall damage? Scratched housing covers are an unmistakable sign.
Accident traces:
Indicators of a fall are a damaged steering stop, scratches and rubbing marks on the housing cover, exhaust, swing arm or fork. Traces of an accident can also be found on the handlebar ends and grips.
fact
Play on the rocker arm and reversing lever? Also check here with the wheel unloaded.
Landing gear:
Oil traces on the fork? Then the fork seals are defective. Oil mist on the shock absorber rod indicates that the component is worn out. Likewise, the rebounding of the stern or gurgling noises when rebounding. Check the play of the rocker arm and reversing lever with the rear wheel unloaded.
Board electrics:
What is the situation with the battery: Is the charge and fluid level correct, are the connections well maintained? Are the cable connections corroded? The lights, horn and all instruments work?
fact
Worn brake discs? Clearly palpable grooves are indicators.
Brake:
Is the lining thickness sufficient, are the lines tight, do the brake discs already have grooves? If new parts are due, it costs several hundred euros.
Wear parts:
Check the chain for even slack, and it must not be possible to lift it off the chainring. Check the residual profile of the tires (legal minimum 1.6 millimeters) and admissibility (entry in the papers or manufacturer approval).
Five steps to a bargain
1. Get inspiration, set a budget: What does my dream motorcycle look like? Are there alternatives that are less prominent? Exploring the price range: what do you want to spend when buying? Consider possible additional costs (HU / “TuV”, tires, wear parts).
2. Observe offers, contact dealers: Search the internet and classifieds. Target dealers in the area. Maybe someone knows about a customer motorcycle that is about to go on sale.
3. View your dream motorcycle: Put it through its paces at the first appointment, take a test drive, pay attention to weaknesses. It is ideal if an experienced friend looks along critically!
4th. Check alternatives: Cross-check of comparable models on site. What do they have that the dream bike doesn’t have? The first choice remains “on top”?
5. Targeted sales pitch: If everything is correct, then off to the seller. Take cash with you, clearly state the asking price, avoid lengthy haggling. Had success? Then handshake and sign the contract.
Hunting for bargain hunters: the trappers
Screenshot
Internet initiative: It is called “Safe Car Buying”, but also gives many tips on how to buy a motorcycle safely.
Tempting offers are in abundance. But not all are serious and safe. The usual Internet trading platforms are full of advertisements that sound too good to be true: almost brand-new bikes that are offered at a supposedly ridiculous price.
According to the seller’s description, however, they are then in Great Britain or Ireland, but with prepayment they can easily be delivered to your own door by a forwarding agent. Of course, this is where all the hairs on the back of the neck of every critical consumer arise.
But the fraudsters are always trying to catch new customers. Not only prospective buyers can fall into the trap. Suppliers of used bikes are also overwhelmed with dubious offers.
The initiative by the police, ADAC, Mobile.de and Autoscout24.de, which can be found on the Internet at www.sicherheiterautokauf.de, offers extensive information on this as well as immediate aid.
Price comparison: used motorcycles under 4000 euros
1000PS marketplace app
Used motorcycles can be very cheap.
If you are looking for a used bike for less than 4,000 euros on the motorcycle market, you can look forward to an extensive selection. Many used cars are looking for new owners, but of course you have to be careful not to buy the proverbial pig in a poke. Here is the price comparison: used motorcycles under 4000 euros.
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