What to Look for Kicking the Tires??

[-Marc V-]

Hi Folks - have a line on what I think is a decent deal on a Can Am 800. I'm not quite sure what to look for on a used machine though. I can look the plastic and fenders to make sure they're all in good shape yet. How much tread is left on the tires. Maybe the CV boots (if that's what they're called). But that's about the extent of what I know. Anything I should keep my eye out for?

[Dave S]

If you can, open the air box to check the condition on the inside. Is it dirty? How does the filter look?

Look a the exhaust. Is the end of the pipe black, damp or oily? Hopefully not oily.

Start the machine and check the lights. Are they dim? Get brighter as you rev the throttle?

Ride the machine. Does the steering feel loose? Make sure the steering doesn't have any play in it. Any odd noises? Brakes? Grinding?

Look for any dents or dings in the A-Arms/trailing arms. Does the under side show any signs of abuse?

[CaptainMusky]

Aside from dents and dings look closely at the frame welds. If paint is coming off it likely means there was stress put on that location and not a good sign.