The Gear & Grind Comprehensive Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist for Used Honda CB500F
This checklist is designed for inspecting a used Honda CB500F (e.g., 2016 model at around 70k km). It’s based on standard motorcycle PPI guidelines, the attached parts catalogue (“CB500FJ-V6-2017.pdf” for part diagrams and FRT times on P.57–64), and Honda’s general maintenance advice. Use it to spot issues like engine wear or rust. For each item, mark the checkbox once checked, and note results. If DIY, use basic tools (socket set, compression tester ~RM50, tire gauge, multimeter). Pro PPI recommended (~RM300–500 at Honda dealer). Time: 1–2 hours.
1. Paperwork & Basics
- VIN & Serial Numbers: Verify VIN on frame/headstock matches documents/registration (catalogue P.4 for serial check).
How: Use JPJ app or CTOS report (~RM80); check for theft/accidents. - Service Records & Mileage: Review history (oil every 12,800 km per FRT P.64); odometer consistent with wear.
How: Ask for receipts; cross-check with catalogue FRT times for missed services. - Ownership History: Number of previous owners.
How: CTOS Vehicle Check (~RM80) or JPJ office. - Loan/Finance Status: Ensure no outstanding loans or liens on the bike.
How: Check with JPJ or seller’s bank documents; use CTOS for encumbrances.
2. Exterior & Visual Inspection
- Overall Appearance: Check for dents, scratches, mismatched paint (crash signs).
How: Walk around; use flashlight for under fairings. Note: Pay attention to frame alignment for signs of major accidents. - Frame & Chassis: No cracks/bends/rust (FRAME GROUP P.97 diagram).
How: Inspect welds/underbelly; probe rust with screwdriver. - Exhaust System: No holes/rust/leaks (P.140 exhaust diagram).
How: Look for corrosion; start engine—listen for even sound. - Paint & Plastics: Check for fading, cracks, or repaints.
How: Inspect tank, fenders, and side panels for uniformity; test for loose plastics.
3. Engine & Mechanical Inspection (ENGINE GROUP P.70–96 Diagrams)
- Cold Start & Idle: Starts easily, idles smooth ~1,400 RPM (FRT 0.6 hours ignition timing P.64).
How: Turn key—listen for knocking/smoke (blue = oil burn, white = coolant leak). - Compression Test: Even 150–170 PSI across cylinders (FRT 0.8 hours P.64).
How: Remove plugs (P.70 diagram), screw in tester, crank engine—low = wear. - Oil Level/Condition: Between marks, clean/golden (FRT 0.3 hours oil change P.64).
How: Pull dipstick (cold bike)—smell for burnt; change if sludgy. - Coolant Level: Between min/max, clear pink (FRT 0.5 hours coolant change P.64).
How: Check reservoir—milky/leaks = gasket issue. - Leaks & Fluids: No oil/coolant drips (P.70 crankcase diagram).
How: Inspect under engine; check brake fluid level/color (FRT 0.2 hours bleeding P.64). Note: Also check power steering fluid if applicable, but not on this model. - Noises & Vibrations: No unusual knocking/ticking (valves FRT 1.6 hours adjustment P.64).
How: Rev to 5k RPM—listen; feel for excess vibes. - Warm Run Test: Smooth power, no hesitation.
How: Ride 5–10 km—monitor temp (fan at ~100°C); check for overheating. - Gas Tank: Check for rust or debris inside the tank if any.
How: Open cap and use flashlight to inspect interior; sniff for stale fuel odor (indicates contamination). - Air Filter & Throttle: Clean air filter; smooth throttle response (FRT 0.3 hours air cleaner element replacement P.64).
How: Remove airbox cover (P.80 diagram); twist throttle—no sticking; inspect filter for dirt/clogs.
4. Suspension & Handling (FRAME GROUP P.97–163)
- Forks & Shocks: No leaks/sag (fork diagram P.100; shock FRT 0.4 hours oil change P.64).
How: Bounce front/rear—smooth rebound; check preload (adjust for weight). - Steering Head Bearings: No play/wobble (FRT 0.4 hours adjustment P.64).
How: Jack front, rock wheel side-to-side—<1 mm play ok; torque stem nut (~10 Nm) if loose. - Swingarm & Bushings: No play/rust (P.130 swingarm diagram).
How: Rock rear wheel side-to-side—firm. - Alignment & Geometry: No pulling to one side.
How: Test ride on straight road—release hands briefly at low speed; check for drift.
5. Wheels, Tires & Brakes
- Tires: Tread >1.6 mm, even wear (FRT 0.6 hours balance P.64).
How: Measure with gauge; spin wheels—no cupping; pressure front 250 kPa, rear 290 kPa. Note: Check tire age (DOT code on sidewall—not over 5 years). - Wheels & Bearings: No dents/grinding (FRT 0.6 hours front balance P.64).
How: Spin wheels—listen for noise; rock for play. - Brakes: Pads >2 mm, fluid clear (FRT 0.2 hours bleeding P.64).
How: Squeeze lever—firm; check rotors for scoring. - Brake Discs: Check for worn brake disc.
How: Measure thickness with caliper (spec >4 mm front, >5 mm rear); look for grooves/warping.
6. Drivetrain (Chain & Sprockets)
- Chain: Slack 20–30 mm, no kinks/rust (FRT 0.1 hours adjustment P.64).
How: Measure mid-chain; lube if dry. - Sprockets: No hooked teeth/uneven wear (P.140 drive sprocket diagram).
How: Spin rear wheel—inspect teeth.
7. Electrical & Lights
- Battery & Charging: ~12.6V off, 14V running (FRT 0.2 hours charge P.64).
How: Use multimeter on terminals. - Lights/Horn: All work, no dimming (FRT 0.1 hours headlight aiming P.64).
How: Turn on—check brightness; fix water ingress as discussed. - Switches & Dash: No faults (P.150 wiring diagram if needed).
How: Test all buttons/indicators. - Electrical Wiring: No frayed wires or loose connections.
How: Inspect harness (P.150 diagram); check for corrosion, especially near battery.
8. Test Ride & Final Checks
- Ride Test: 20 km mixed—smooth shifts, no wobble/vibes, brakes firm.
How: Accelerate hard, brake, corner—listen for noises. - Post-Ride Inspection: Check for new leaks/smells after cooling.
How: Re-inspect fluids/engine. - Overall Assessment: Summarize issues, estimate repair costs, and decide on negotiation points.
How: Note total fixes (e.g., tires RM800, bearings RM500) for haggling.
Note any issues and haggle accordingly—e.g., RM500 off for tires. This list ensures a thorough check for your blog. Ride safe!