I found one in Cycle Trader today, for $1200. Is this a good bargain? Was there anything wrong with the 2000 models?
Thanks in advance!

OneWolf

 

So much depends on condition and any signs of abuse. A GOOD machine in near new condition (some wear and tear) is worth $1200 but be very very careful. Look for sprocket wear or chain rub. Tires should be 75% or better. Everything should work - starter etc. If you can, pull the aircleaner cover off and see if a aircleaner exists and/or condition - this can sometimes tell you a lot about how well it was maintained or abused. Are the shocks good? Lift it up and check wheel bearings for play. Is the front end straight? Does it run well? Excessive smoke? pull to either side? Any repaired damage to frame or suspension? Is the machine clean and little to no rust?
For $1200 it should be in above average condition.

 

I'm will be aloowed to test ride it. And it has new sprokets, tires, chain, bearings, etc.

OneWolf

 

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Might want to check the compression with a PSI tool that looks like: - Press Here -

Normal PSI on stock P-90 engine should be between 90 - 110. 120 is "fresh" and 85 or below is "going to need rings &/or upper engine job" very soon.

While pulling its plug to check its PSI, also notice its plug color. It should be near "beer bottle brown". If pure black (which is too fuel rich jetting or too much oil), its pipe and muffler could be over plugged with too much carbon. If white plug, run away. White plug means its been running hot and the odds are, it will have internal engine damage. If you can, perform PSI and plug color tests BEFORE and AFTER your test drive. The most critical test is AFTER your test drive. If no test drive is allowed (by an experienced adult driver), walk away. The seller is hiding something!!!!

.

 

Those are all good suggestion Spike.
I'd be a concerned with it having new chains and sprockets. Our 90 was riden a pretty good amount over 4 years and it wasn't anywhere near needing new chain or sprocket. That to me indicates that it might have a lot of miles on it or was not very well maintained. These observations are not proof positive evidence - but it deserves due consideration.

 

For $35-60 you can rebuild the topend and it takes about 45 minutes. I'd say if someone put on a new chain,sprockets and new tires they probably took good care of it. I've seen bikes trashed out and tore up long before they wear out a set of tires. If they spent $200 on it they probably take care of their bikes. Just another way of looking at the new parts IMO.