Without tempting the M/C Gods of Fate too much, I should very likely be in a purchasing/decision making position by Satruday afternoon.

I have been looking at a couple options. A few dealers up here have leftover 08's in stock for what seems like very attrcative prices. I am also looking into a used 07 with appx. 3000km on it. What, if anything, should i be on the lookout for when considering a used 14? I'm confident in the model itself, and have always had good luck with Kawy's. I'm not sure that a use bike with only 3000km on it could show any significant signs of abuse or over-use, but if you guys can point me to any key areas or places to phsically look at, I would be very appreciative.

thanks,
Carlo.

3000km is low. I wouldn't worry as long as the owner doesn't seam like a tool.

The '07 has a recall on the frame.
Ask if the inspection/retorque has been performed and visually inspect the welds yourself.
We had a good thread on the old forum that has unfortunately been lost.
Here is the link the the one on BL however:
http://www.bikeland.org/board/viewthread.php?FID=27&TID=39449&set_time=1212450114

* Last updated by: DogoZX on 4/2/2009 @ 2:14 PM *

Look for pitting on underbelly and under mirrors. Also scrapes on clutck/brake levers and broken off feeler pegs. If it's there, the bike was dropped at 0 mph or fell of stand. No big deal, but you could use to negotiate.

I would want to inspect the outer housing of the steering stem for cracks or wrikles. That could result from dropping out of high wheelies. Check to see if the clutch fully disengages at a standstill in first gear. A slight jump and loud clunk switching from N to 1 is normal but if it wants to steadily creep forward with clutch in, there could have been a lot of high rpm launches done. I've heard some synthetic oils will cause the clutch to slip in the same way, though.

I've heard of several people complaining about brake squeek. Mine does it on light braking especially in the colder weather. I wouldn't be concerned about that.

If the tire is still stock, the bike was probabley not run too hard. Look at the tread. I'm at 6600 miles on my stock tire and I still have another 700-1000 miles to go on it before the tread depth is down to 0 on the center. If you see a stock tire with some life left, you know the bike was not run hard. How far back is the axle for chain adjustment? Mine is at the third mark from the front and I have done aproximately 3000 urban miles in stop and go.

If you get a good deal, I wouldn't shy away from a bike that has been run hard. The only problem I hear about is throwing a rod from doing long 12 o'clock wheelies and you obviously wouldn't buy a bike with a hole in the motor. I think almost every one of us has burned some rubber, done some little wheelies, certainly done some hard revs. I've done all that stuff. The bikes run good. They will take a lot of abuse.

Rook

Thanks again,
I said goodbye to the old bike yesterday, which puts me one step closer. Now I just have to be patient for a week.

Very good. So I'm assumming you have a 14 lined up? If not, enjoy the shopping excursion!

I have around 3 on the radar right now. One used, and two new leftover 08's. Waiting for my bank to finish their stuff, and should be ready to make the all-important "bike-buying road trip" this weekend.

Rook wrote:

I'm at 6600 miles on my stock tire and I still have another 700-1000 miles to go on it before the tread depth is down to 0 on the center.

Rook do you ever open that thing up? I'm lucky to get 3K out of a back tire. 7700 miles is more like what i get on my cruiser.

Kruz

1+

Rook, Listen to Kruz Mine were shot on par with Kruz. I extended a few hundred more and they were block driven. Block meaning I was rolling over a brick is it stuck to the tire. Feels like a rolling square now, does it not?

You are in a colder area, so it must be worse for you riding the first few feet is fell it. Those are done if you think you can hook it hard into a turn. Last thing you want to do is know your parts counter person's first name is, "Are my parts in yet, Are my parts in yet?' '__________ Fill in the blank?"

^^^WOT is still an experience I am looking forward to. I'm still alive and have no tickets. I must agree, though 6000 miles on one tire is a waste of a 14. I need to do something about that. Think I'll shoot for 4000 on my next one.

Rook

Signed the deal on a new 08 Midnite Sapphire Blue just a few minutes ago. Got the sales agreement faxed over, put a deposit on my Visa to hold it until Saturday, and am heading to the bank Wednesday afternoon to pick up the money draft.

Fingers crossed, I'll be riding Sunday.

Congrats! You will NOT be disappointed. Ride safe... -bg

Same/same. You picked the bestest looking 14 yet produced. Take it out when the sun is about to set on a clear evening. I bet you'll just sit there in awe and not even go for a ride....but try to tear yourself away from the sight and ride. Sunset is the best time IMO.

Rook

Congrats Carlo. Now I am really looking forward to riding to RL and the Beartooth Hwy with you this year. You wont be on that big heavy bike. LOL
Can't wait to see the pictures of the new ride.

Yeh Gene,
Looking forward to it as well..............as long as you speed demons don't take off on me.

Best color out there,congrats!!