Whether you have recently bought a salvage title motorcycle or your motorcycle has been in a mishap, restoring it doesn’t have to be a draining affair. While your mechanic may give you a hefty estimate for repairs, you can still keep the cost on the lower side. How, you ask? Read on, as we discuss the types of damages that can be fixed at a low cost and those that would require expensive replacements.
Frame
A motorcycle’s frame works as a skeleton that holds all the parts together. If a motorcycle hits a pothole or a deep road bump, it can damage the headstock or even bend the frame. In case of an end-over-end accident, the likelihood of the frame getting bent or the headstock/subframe getting damaged is high. When it comes to repairing the frame; while subframes and any frames with nicks in the metal are best replaced, minor bends, dents, scratches, a collapsed headstock, and broken brackets can be repaired at a reasonable cost.
Front Fork
While slow speed accidents usually don’t damage modern forks, especially if the bike has inverted forks (also called upside-down forks or ‘USD’ forks), any high speed impact can bend the forks and twist the triple clamp (also known as yoke), and can also cause severe damage to the triple clamps. While minor bends and twisted triple clamps can be fixed at a low cost, it is advisable to replace anything that is broken, bulged, or cracked.
Also Read: Top 5 Motorcycle Mods to Consider When Restoring a Salvage Motorcycle
Wheels
While an accident at a slow speed can break an already distressed or damaged wheel, it usually flattens part of the rim. In case of a major collision, the rim can get bent or cracked. While minor buckling and flattened rims can be fixed, if the damage is severe, it is advisable to get the wheel replaced as replacing it will most likely cost less than repair.
Body Work
Cracks and scratches in panels and panel mounts are common damages caused in an accident. Even a drop off the kickstand can damage the plastic parts used in the body, such as fairings. While broken plastic panels and heavy scuffs may require replacement, minor scratches and light scuffs can be fixed at a low cost.
The Last Word
Now that you have a basic understanding of the types of damages that can be fixed at a low cost and the ones that entail expensive replacements, you should be better placed to go ahead with the restoration project. If you are still looking to buy your dream motorcycle but budget is a constraint, we are here to help. Explore our inventory of salvage title motorcycles for sale, choose your favorite motorcycle, register with us, and bid in our online motorcycle auction in San Diego to bring home your dream machine. If you have any questions, simply call: +1 (503) 298-4300, Mon-Fri, 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM (PST) or email at: hello@autobidmaster.com.
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