Pre-Purchase Inspections
Independent. Detailed. Trusted.
Buying a used motorcycle should feel exciting—not uncertain.
Our Pre‑Purchase Inspection service gives you complete confidence by providing a thorough, structured assessment of the bike’s condition before you commit.
The pre-purchase inspection report provides you with a comprehensive 50‑point evaluation that covers the motorcycle from front to back. From “First Look", through driveline, controls, bodywork, fluids, electrics, and starting performance.
First Look & General Condition
We start with an overall visual assessment to identify anything immediately concerning or unusual, i.e. does the bike generally look OK, is there Anything different left/right, obviously missing, are there any oil leaks, is the bike straight, etc
Driveline & Wheels
We examine the alignment, condition, and function of all major driveline components, including: Wheel alignment and trueness, Bearings, Chain condition, lubrication, and adjustment, Sprocket wear, Tyre condition, depth, and evenness.
Controls & Steering
Your safety depends on responsive, reliable controls. We check: Brake and clutch lever free play, Gear lever and brake pedal operation, Handlebar alignment, Steering bearings, Switchgear (starter, kill switch, indicators, horn)
Suspension & Chassis
We assess the bike’s structural integrity and ride quality by inspecting: Fork condition, Suspension movement and leaks, Rider and pillion peg security, Swingarm alignment and free play
Bodywork & Frame
Cosmetic and structural checks include:, Fairing fitment and fasteners, Seat, hugger, and pegs, Lenses and lighting, Fuel tank interior, Exhaust security, Side/centre stand condition
Fluids & Consumables
We verify both the level and quality (where possible) of all essential fluids: Engine oil, Coolant, Front and rear brake fluid
Electrical System & Documentation
A reliable motorcycle needs a healthy electrical system and proper paperwork. We check: Wiring harness security, Connectors and fuses, Battery condition, Registration status, Frame and engine number match, Service history and manuals
Starting & Running Condition*
Finally, we assess how the bike behaves when started from cold: Ease of starting, Idle quality, Exhaust smoke, Noise levels, Any leaks or unusual noises.
*Note: Starting & Running refers to the engine; we do not take the motorcycle on the road or ride it.
What the Inspection Covers
The Report
After the inspection, you receive a clear, structured report within 48 hours of the inspection detailing:
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Pass/fail observations
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Technician comments
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Photos/Video (if requested or if this supports the report)
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Recommendations for repairs or negotiation
This gives you the confidence to buy—or walk away—with full knowledge of the bike’s true condition.
The Cost
The report is a fixed price of £125, with an additional travel charge of £1.10 per mile.
Our on-site assessment typically takes around 2, followed by the necessary time to prepare and send you the report.
To calculate your total cost, please use Maps by entering "M8 MOTO" https://maps.app.goo.gl/AcmCvEcPaMXCH9Kn6 as the starting point and the postcode of the bike's location. Take the mileage provided by Google Maps, multiply it by the travel charge, and add the report fee.
For example, if the bike is 50 miles from our workshop in Brompton (DL8 1NZ), the total cost would be £125 + (£1.10 * 50) = £180.00.
Please note that payment is required in full in advance, as we have experienced instances where clients changed their minds after we completed the inspection and report.
Thank you for your understanding. To book or enquire about your inspection, please use the form below.