Buying '06 XB9SX - What to look/inspect for?

[bamarama]

Hi,

I am (most likely) buying an '06 XB9SX this weekend with 6k miles on it. Owner says previous owner hopped the bike up on a curb at low speed and scratched up the muffler and bottom plastics (has been repaired). Owner had rims inspected for damage and also said no damage to the frame. What should I look for on this bike? Common problems that any newb should look for on Buells? I'm upgrading from a '95 Suzuki Katana 750.....so I know some things to look for that I didn't when I bought that bike. Just want to make sure I'm not missing something big before I buy it. Thanks and I look forward riding a Buell with yall.

bama

 

[mrdozer2you]

I guarantee if you havent heard, or ridden a Buell before well....when you first start it you'll probably think its broken They have a noisy motor so its hard to tell if theres any knocks or pings. I would start the bike..let it warm up a bit..walk around it and listen...then ride it a bit..come back and listen for any changes in noise ( sorry to be vague but thats the best way to describe it ) Obviously check for any other visual damages, and any pulls, or vibrations while riding that would indicate bent forks/rims. ( again Buells vibrate like crazy )

 

[thruster]

I'm even more of a newbie (first and only bike is a new 08 Uly I got last October), but here are just a few thoughts: Check wheel bearings and axles: Bang tires sideways with your fist while listening for knocking sounds and feeling for play with a finger at the axle/hub junctures (I already had a problem with my rear bearings/axle, but it's getting fixed under warranty). Check for tire wear, brake pad wear, brake function, leaks/drips of oil and other fluids, fluid levels, dirty oil (not a big deal, but can tell you if the seller cared enough to put in fresh oil for you -- same principle applies to checking tire pressure, which you want to be right for a test ride anyway), clutch cable sheath integrity, clutch lever action, corrosion (especially stock muffler), and just take your time with everything.

Best approach, I think, is to read the owner's manual from the Buell web site (they now post them) beginning to end, taking notes and making a list of things to check, especially those listed on the maintenance charts. Like me, perhaps you might be a person who tends to take things on faith and solve problems as they arise, but this is one situation where it is better to be thorough, as your safety and satisfaction depend on it.