What can I expect from a Shop safety check?

skippersusie's picture
Submitted by skippersusie on Sat, 07/17/2010 - 03:03
in

so, I am picking up the new bike tomorrow from a really nice guy who has done all the maintainence himself for some 20 or so years. My first stop is to drop it off at the local shop (not a dealership) for a safety check. Does anyone know what I can expect them to look over? The first shop I went to was 75 bucks more and the check was comprehensive. Do you think it will be similiar.

I feel like an A@# for not asking the details, but the shop comes highly recommended from both people I know in real life and the reviews I have read online.

Thanks again, you guys are awesome!!

‹ Oh boy, what a reality check... Did the DMV mess up? ›

A safety check could include

Submitted by Jeff in Kentucky on Sat, 07/17/2010 - 12:24.

A safety check could include checking valve clearances, if the engine has cooled for several hours first, chain and sprockets or shaft or belt maintenance, looking at the tires and checking the tire pressure, checking the battery and air filter, and giving it a test ride to check for normal power and normal right and left cornering ability. Maybe changing the engine oil , coolant, brake fluid and fork oil. Maybe synchronizing the carbs and changing the spark plugs. An older bike might need new spark plug wires. The price goes up for any new parts and extra labor needed.

I am a big believer in Sea Foam to help keep the carbs or fuel injectors clean, especially when you first buy a used bike that has been parked for awhile:

http://www.webbikeworld.com/sea-foam

You need to call and ask once

Munch's picture
Submitted by Munch on Sat, 07/17/2010 - 13:00.

You need to call and ask once you have the bike. Clarify with them what you want looked at. If your state has inspection requirements annually they could be confusing the request. A safety inspection rarely will include anything mechanical that will require dis assymbly of anything. Likely they will check lights, belt/chain tension, clutch and brake cable adjustments, visible fluid levels and battery strength, also tire wear. They might actually be generous enough to go on a test ride to check for obvious noises from the engine, tranny and bearings. If you want them to dig deeper you will need to clarify that. Chances are they will tell you about their major services package. Don't be shy about clarifying what you want done and what you expect to have looked at.

****Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well preserved body, but, rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting "Holy Shit....What a ride!!!"****

I'm in California, so I don't

skippersusie's picture
Submitted by skippersusie on Sat, 07/17/2010 - 13:47.

I'm in California, so I don't think there is a state mandated inspection. I was thinking along the the lines of the basics. I did ask if it would include them adjusting the handlebars and levers to fit me as the previous owner is a pretty big guy and has huge hands!!! The said no problem.

Thanks again for the awesome advice... I hope I can contribute something more than just questions at some point to the group.

1984 Virago 700...
A work in progress