Ride and Try
a short ride is a must before buying a second-hand motorcycle because its biggest flaws become apparent during the ride. Find an empty stretch of level road and let go of the handlebar while riding along at about 40 km/h. if the motorcycle pulls to the left, it probably has chassis damage. since some straight roads have a negative camber for water drainage, attempt the same thing on the other side of the road as well. if it pulls to the right this time, it is most likely that it is all right and now you need to find an absolutely flat patch of road to confirm. however, if it pulls to the left again, then the motorcycle most certainly has collision damage. so, hard pass on those.
For shaft-driven motorcycles, damage to the drive shaft will cause the motorcycle to make clanking noises when you roll the power on and off while riding. Damage to the differential can be identified as a high-pitched whine from the rear section of the motorcycle.
During the ride, if the engine rpm is not proportional to the acceleration of the motorcycle, you have to check for a slipping clutch. that is done by loading the engine using a high gear. if the revs continue to build with a lack of proportionate momentum from the motorcycle, it is confirmed. the clutch needs replacement. Google the cost of a replacement. thank goodness for the internet!