Two-wheeler constitute more than 70 percent of total vehicle populations.Two-wheeler cater to the needs of low and middle income users and help fill the gaps when public transport systems are inefficient, not integrated, or non-existent.The reality is that many Indian cities lack substantial and efficient public transport systems. As incomes rise, users of public transport and people limited by their lack of mobility are looking to private modes of transportation to meet their mobility needs. While car ownership may be on the rise, it is two-wheeler that are leading the process of mass motorization as millions of people in India’s growing middle class are able to afford an entry-level two-wheeler.
Some key factors influencing two-wheeler ownership and use in Asian cities are their low costs and fuel economy, maneuverability and ease of parking in congested areas, shorter distances or trip lengths and low levels of transit services, walking and cycling infrastructure.
According to numbers released by individual Indian two-wheeler makers, cumulatively, they have crossed 20-million unit sales for the first time in FY 2018. No doubt why it always been a much more affordable option for the masses.
Indian market is full of choices in all budgets however, buying a used two-wheeler is also a wise decision seeing cost, better value for money & less depreciation cost. Transferable jobs, upgrading model & exchange also been important factors in rising used two-wheeler market.
we are covering some of the important points to be taken care while buying used Two-wheeler.
1. Find out the reason: why you are buying it... Yes before jumping into market evaluate your need & expectation. Is it a necessity and you need to commute to your workplace/college every day? You don't like public transport and want to save time in commuting? It's your secondary mode of transport and you need the bike for going short distance for daily chores? Or it has been your childhood dream to ride a particular bike and you think the time is right for you to get one? Once you know what you are looking for, the next job is to decide the segment. Segment depends on the kind of budget you have. Always keep in mind that newer the bike, the better condition it is likely to be in. Typically, Cruisers need more maintenance but they are comfortable to ride.
2. Where to find second-hand bikes: The road to buy or sell used bike is filled with numerous insecurities and risks. Be it dealing with unknown people or lack of transparency regarding bike condition, you are never at peace.
If you buy from a reputed dealer, chances are you will get a machine which has been thoroughly checked & papers are clear. Second-hand motorcycle dealers inspect the bikes before buying any inventory. As he has to sell it down the line, he would have ensured basic checks, at the very least.
it always advisable to ask for all proof of transaction to address any eventuality in future. dealer should provide delivery note, sales deed and invoice (as GST is very nominal on used bike)
Private sales through classifieds: Buying directly from a private seller will save you some money but it involves a bit of risk. i.e. dealing with strangers & competency and transparency in disclosing defects. If you either have experience or the knowledge, or know the bike owner, it is advisable to check and opt for this option for a good bike at a good deal.
3. Inspecting the bike always arrive on time for inspecting the bike. It's important to carry out all the visual inspection during the day as natural light helps in checking all aspects of the bike minutely.It's always a good idea to take someone along who has experience of riding a bike. A second opinion - one that may be more practical than yours - counts.
Always look for specific bike-related information on the web to understand what people who already own it have to say about it.
Brakes: Check for smooth operation, age of break pad and ensure that there is no pulsing. Oil Leakage: Look for oil spillage around the engine. If a bike has been washed recently, the portion with oil spillage will shine more than the rest of the area. Also ask for the service detail of the bike. Corrosion/Rust: Look for rust in bike frames. Surface rust is not a cause of concern but deep rust with crumbling iron flake are signs that the bike may not have been maintained properly. Clutch: Check the lever effort and when it's released. It should be effortless. Chassis: The whole chassis should be thoroughly inspected for visible deep scratch marks. Check for fresh paint as it is a sign the bike has met with an accident. Chains: Check the condition of chain and sprocket. The sprocket should not show visible signs of damage or wear. Rotate the rear wheel and hear the sound of the chain - it should be uniform. Tyres: Tyres should have good tread all the way across the surface with no signs of uneven wear or damage. Electricals and Battery: Check all lights and switches to make sure they work. Fuel Tank: Open the fuel tank and check for rust or corrosion. Needless to say, don't use lighter or match box to get a better view!
Suspension: Look for oil leaks around the suspension. Also look for scratches/bends/twists in the leg. Wheels: Check the wheels for cracks. If the wheel is spoke based, it should be thoroughly examined for rust corrosion and cracks. Exhaust pipe: Look for an oil leak in the exhaust pipe. Oil in the exhaust means bad rings or valve guide seals. Additional accessories: Quiz the owner about the nonstandard accessories in the motorcycle and the status of the warranty. Paperwork check: RC (Registration Certificate) book: The engine and chassis numbers printed in the RC book should match the engine and chassis numbers embossed on the engine and chassis. Insurance certificate PUC (Pollution Under Control) Certificate NOC (No Objection Certificate): An NOC is necessary from the RTO where the vehicle is registered, especially if the registration of a vehicle is going to be transferred from one RTO to another.
Ref:
1. https://wrirosscities.org/sites/default/files/Motorized-Two-Wheelers-Indian-Cities-Pune-EMBARQ-India.pdf
2.https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/auto/bikes/Buying-a-second-hand-bike-Tips-to-keep-in-mind/articleshow/52665998.cms