[Obers]

Hi All,

I've been lurking these forums for a little while, finally decided to join up. I've been looking for a used Wee for a little while but after doing research and looking around I realize that I really don't know what to look for in a good used 650.

First, and very important, what is the best way to find out what I should expect to pay? Beyond KBB/NADAguides I'm not really sure how to price check.

Second, what kind of mileage should I be expecting as "normal"? I have found a couple '08 wees in my price range with about 20k miles, I'm not sure if that is high or just getting broken in.

Anything that I should look for/at in inspecting a used wee would be welcome advice, or tips in general would be appreciated.

I'm looking forward to join the Strom family, thanks in advance for your help!

-Sean
(Sorry if I should have posted this somewhere else)

 

[brokeagain]

As far as 'what I should be paying', check the local craigslists for as far as you're willing to reasonably drive for a good example. Also check the For Sale section here, and also on ADVrider.

If you keep an eye on those things, you'll get a good idea what the going rate is for a Wee in your area. Some of the higher priced ones will sit for a while, some will be lower priced for one reason or another, or maybe no reason, as it's September now. Some will have a bajillion accessories bolted to it, and some may not.

20K is a fine mileage for that year, as it shows that it's been ridden often and hasn't been left to sit. Maintenance records are important as well, but there isn't a whole lot that these bikes will need, so don't be surprised to hear 'just oil, gas, and tires'. If that valves have been checked/adjusted by around 16K, then that's good. If not, make sure it's not toooo far over that without checking, though it'll probably be fine anyway. Figure the things it 'needs' maintenance wise into negotiating the price.

Otherwise, they're solid machines. Get a white one, I think they're pretty.

Also, only the best people in the world have your name. I'd know

 

[Kelly2012]

White isn't even a color. But then again, neither is my black one.

 

[strompilot]

The mileage isn't an issue unless the bike has been abused. But more practically, when you go to look at the bike or bikes, do make some visual checks. Check the chain for its condition. It should be properly adjusted and have no kinks. It shouldn't be rusty if the owner has taken care do it properly. Just be aware that at 20,000 miles, the chain and sprockets may be nearing the end of their life. If the sprockets, especially the primary sprocket shows any hooking, that means the chain may have been adjusted too tight. Or it could simply be worn out.

Ask to see if the owner has kept any maintenance records and see what he has been doing. Look for any signs that the bike has been down, such as broken turn signals, cracked or broken plastic body parts, etc. dropping a bike, resulting in scratches doesn't really count.

Check the steering bearings by grabbing the front tire, with the tire off the ground and gently push/pull the wheel. There shouldn't be any play. Then, again with the front tire off the ground, slowly move the handlebars side to side, stop to stop. The movement should be smooth, with no tight spots.

Bring a mirror and flashlight to check the front and rear brake pads.
And make a quick look at the oil,in the sight gauge, first to make sure you can see oil and that it is at least at the halfway point.

I'm sure there are. Many other things you can check, but in general, a Wee that has been properly cared for will be reliable and solid. Hard to go wrong with a Wee unless, as I said before, it's been a used.

Hope,this helps you in your quest. The price point is pretty much governed by region.

 

[glock45fan]

gas... so you can take it for a test ride!

 

[Obers]

Thanks for the tips everyone!

I found one that I'm going to check out, soon hopefully. I'm a little skeptical right now because the bike I found seems to be listed for much less than the going rate and is being sold by a dealer. If anything I thought they would mark it up?

Makes me wonder if something is wrong that they aren't telling me about, but they said single owner, great shape, all services done in their shop, last owner just wanted a newer abs model... I don't want to fall in to someone else's problem bike.