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Advice and tips on buying and selling between private individuals
  • Vehicles

6 Things to Check Before Buying a Used Scooter

  • 23 February 23

An efficient means of transport in both urban and rural areas, a scooter - which in its 50cc configuration can be ridden from the age of 14 - is nevertheless something not to be taken lightly: even when bought second-hand at a bargain price, it's vital to check a number of points. Your safety and satisfaction are at stake!

1 - Try it out

As with a car, it's unthinkable to buy a scooter without first trying it out. Not only does this allow you to test comfort, but also to detect potential problems: suspicious noises, road behaviour, etc. The test drive is a crucial stage.

2 - Check the odometer

The kilometre counter works by means of a cable connected to the front wheel. Check that it is correctly connected. If it isn't, there's every chance that the number of kilometres displayed is wrong. Note also that if the handlebars are not original, the information may also be inaccurate. It's also important to compare the general condition of the scooter with the number of kilometres covered. If a scooter has clocked up 500 kilometres and is in deplorable condition, there's something fishy going on...

The seller must provide you with the purchase invoice and the maintenance booklet.

3 - Ask for the invoice and documents associated with the scooter

Ideally, even if there's no question of a warranty, the seller should provide you with the purchase invoice and service booklet. As well as ensuring that it has been properly maintained, this will also enable you to check that it is not a stolen scooter. The frame and engine numbers should also match. To make sure it hasn't been stolen if the seller doesn't have these documents, you can draw up or ask the seller to draw up a certificat de non-gage by clicking here. This document gives you the scooter's history with the government.

4 - Check the following points

  • Shock absorbers must not be damaged
  • Tyres must not be smooth or have been repaired with wicks.
  • Brake discs and pads must be in good condition
  • The electrical system (horn, lights, indicators, battery connections) must be in good condition.

5 - Draw up the necessary documents

To formalise the transfer of the scooter, draw up a deed of transfer with the seller. This document could prove invaluable in the event of a problem. If the scooter has been heavily modified and many parts are not original, we recommend that you also draw up a disclaimer.

6 - Use a secure payment method

Using Obvy for the sale - purchase of a scooter will provide both the seller and the buyer with a reliable, simple, archived transaction, guaranteeing optimum satisfaction for both parties.