What is considered High Millage on a used motorcycle?

Question

I am looking into buying a used motorcycle, and am clueless as to what is considered high milage? 10,000, 20,000, 100,000 miles??

The bike I am looking at is a 1985 Honda 500. It has about 20K on it.

Answer 1

It varies from one model to another.  100,000 miles on a Japanese bike is nothing.  We sold a 1986 Goldwing in 1995 with 156,000 miles on it.  The buyer still rides it today, the engine has never been apart, and he has over 300,000 on it now. At the same time, I've seen lots of bikes wore out with less than 30,000 on them.  It all depends on how it was taken care of.  I steer clear of anything that hasn't had at least 8 to 10,000 miles per year  Expect to spend a lot of money replacing seals and gaskets on old low mile bikes.  My background is retired Harley mechanic, 43 years on the bench..

Answer 2

Sometimes we fall in love with an old motorcycle because our restorer instincts have been aroused.  In that case, just make sure that you have access to spares and you need to replace certain items.

Normally Honda engines are long life (80,000 plus) and quite reliable.  However the overall condition of the motorcycle, the level of rust, condition of tyres, etc, accident injuries etc. are also worthy of consideration.

If it is an ill maintained and shabbily kept vehicle which appears difficult to restore to it former glory, try looking for a better example.  I am sure there are many to be found !

Answer 3

20,000 miles on a Honda 500 is not too many; at least not excessive.  The bike should have lots more life left in it.  Be sure it is in good shape before you buy.  Have it inspected by a mechanic first.  If the seller tries to persuade you otherwise, don't buy it.

Good luck.

Answer 4

i have over 70,000 on my 2000... does it run ... any oil leaks... dents or dings... paint ok   3 or 400 bucks maybe less.. i brought a yz 500 about ten yrs ago for 300 bucks rode it for like four yrs and sold it for the same  

Answer 5

The mileage on the odometer isn't as important as how the bike was ridden and maintained over the years.  I'd rather have a bike that was well looked after and has 50K miles on it as opposed to a bike that was abused or neglected with only 5K miles on it.