Contact Overland Solutions for all your custom modifications and setup for overland travel.

Go Back   Horizons Unlimited - The HUBB > Technical, Bike forums > Which Bike?

Which Bike? Comments and Questions on what is the best bike for YOU, for YOUR trip. Note that we believe that ANY bike will do, so please remember that it's all down to PERSONAL OPINION. Technical Questions for all brands go in their own forum.
With more than 58 destinations worldwide, Edelweiss Bike Travel is Number 1 in guided motorcycle tours!

AMERICA’S PREMIER MANUFACTURER OF MOTORCYCLE SUSPENSION

Reply
 
LinkBack Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 20 Oct 2012
Registered Users
New on the HUBB
 
Join Date: Jul 2012
Posts: 6
Inspecting a bike (DL-650) for purchase - what should I look for?

Hi all,

After several straight days of researching the right bike for a 6-month 2-up adventure that won't break the bank, your suggestions and my research has lead me to the conclusion that a V-Strom 650 would be a great option.

I found one about an hour away from where I live 2005 Suzuki Vstrom dl650 and it looks to be in good condition, have some nice extras and is going for a reasonable price (at least to my untrained eye). The thing is, I am mechanically-challenged and don't know shit about how to buy a second-hand motorcycle, let alone a V-Strom.

I am welcoming any and all suggestions on what I should do during evaluation of bike (aside from riding it and kicking the tires) to make sure I'm not buying a lemon and that this particular bike is not weak in any of the areas that V-Strom's may be known for. When responding, please pretend like you are talking to an idiot (as far as the mechanics of the bike go - as that's not too far from the truth). I know how to ride pretty well but have not devoted time to learning the mechanics of my bikes. That is going to change with this bike, particularly because I plan on being able to perform maintenance and fix minor things during the 6-month ride.

Thanks for your advice and suggestions.

Last edited by nale19; 20 Oct 2012 at 23:26. Reason: spelling
Reply With Quote
  #2  
Old 20 Oct 2012
Contributing Member
HUBB regular
 
Join Date: Jun 2012
Location: Alberta, Canada
Posts: 42
Mines been pretty bullet proof but I'd ask to see maintenance records. The valve adjustment process is a bit much if you're not mechanically able, some of them use oil but don't seem to smoke. Mine does that, or it did at least until I took the reed valves in the heads apart and cleaned them. They are part of the air injection system (PAIR System). The only other thing I found on mine was bent forks but that was because the last owner had crashed it. Look for damage to the oil cooler if you suspect that there's been a front end collision. Fork tube aren't cheap btw! Hopefully it's everything you're looking for. Mine is.
Reply With Quote
Reply


Currently Active Users Viewing This Thread: 1 (0 Registered Users and/or Members and 1 guests)
 
Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
You may not post new threads
You may not post replies
You may not post attachments
You may not edit your posts

BB code is On
Smilies are On
[IMG] code is On
HTML code is Off
Trackbacks are On
Pingbacks are On
Refbacks are On


Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
Air freighting to Argentina, the definitive guide srileo Trip Transport 2 20 Oct 2012 03:38
Looking for some help in getting started TotalTomination South America 20 30 Oct 2009 17:02
Buying and registering a motorcycle in Chile timyarb Trip Paperwork 12 23 Oct 2009 16:42
Few tips for selling your bike in Buenos Aires eyalchuck TRAVEL Bikes for Sale / Wanted 3 9 Jun 2009 19:05
Transfering Title In Buenos Aires kwelfl South America 7 28 Dec 2008 15:06


All times are GMT +1. The time now is 07:23.