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generally- fuel related stuff is the obvious, affecting the entire fuel system
If carbed? plugged up circuits...think instant carb service if 10 years or older and sitting dormant
If injected...clean/verify fuel pump, filters clear and operational
fuel tank rusty? (any bike)
petcock failures?
hard, brittle fuel lines (carb or injected)
some engine service checks required, spark plugs, caps, wires
dead (or near) batteries that fail to hold charge is common...figure on immediate replace if seller has not done already (ask to see dated receipt)
tires- check date code...immediate replace at 5 year old regardless of tread depth...this a major expense $$$
rotted foam type air filters (if so equipped) inspect immediately
Beware of bikes stored outdoors for extended periods...uncovered will create (in addition to all above) electrical terminal corrosion. Everything electrical could be affected...fuseboxes, junction, ignitors, etc etc. Avoid the "leaning outside, uncovered, out back of the garage" for months/years like the plague.
Older, disused bikes may require different levels of repair, some easy, some not so. Ask owner for any pertinent paper service records/receipts from dealers. I'd advise to immediately dismiss any bike that has evidence of being dropped.
Post up specific examples, if you like, with pic, year, mileage, the attached "story" (there's always a story) how long it sat and under what conditions is important. Of course, you're gonna hear "it ran great right before I put it away"
from every owner of every freakin one you look at. Go by actual current conditions...not attached verbiage from seller....usually bs, meaningless after periods of disuse. You'll hear "I put it away a year ago" ...but may be many more.
Gtg...good luck with it. Fun looking/shopping, somewhat an education in itself. And be careful what you may buy, evaluate needs carefully...and use as leverage those needs as bargaining tools in lowering asking price.
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