How important is mileage when buying?

[waldo]

Hello again i am looking at various Gold Wing Trike conversions in the 10 to 12K range most are in 1988 to 1998 year and range from 55 to 99K mileage. How much should i factor in mileage? I know the motors are "bulletproof" but what about everything else. I don't plan on putting a lot of mileage on myself probably average 1k a year. Also noticd cruise does not work on a few of the Trikes is that tough to fix Last thing one of the lower end ones with 99K leaks a "few drips" oil is that a big concern? These are long distance buys and can't have a local shop check them out.

 

[tfdeputydawg]

Hello again i am looking at various Gold Wing Trike conversions in the 10 to 12K range most are in 1988 to 1998 year and range from 55 to 99K mileage. How much should i factor in mileage? I know the motors are "bulletproof" but what about everything else. I don't plan on putting a lot of mileage on myself probably average 1k a year. Also noticd cruise does not work on a few of the Trikes is that tough to fix Last thing one of the lower end ones with 99K leaks a "few drips" oil is that a big concern? These are long distance buys and can't have a local shop check them out.

These are all good questions. Problems is, no one and I mean no one can give correct answers without being able to inspect each bike/trike you're looking at.

You might consider a post detailing where these trikes are and ask if any members close to them could inspect them for you.

Cruise inop could be many things and some would be expensive to fix! Same with oil leaks.

Oil drips would eliminate those from consideration immediately!

Sorry for being so negative but, do not want anyone to buy some one else's trouble.

Complete service records would go a long way in picking a good trike!

 

[tfdeputydawg]

Another cause is worn pivot bushings for the clutch and brake levers!

 

[Gold Rush]

:Agree::Agree:

Both previous responses are sound advice. Having someone close to the bike's location take a look would be GREAT if that could be arranged. Remember the GL1500 is an OLD bike. Sun makes the plastic parts a little brittle over years and getting replacements is extremely difficult. That said the less time a bike spent exposed to the elements the better so 1995 to 2000 would be where I'd be focusing my attention. Yes that probably increases their value but it's money well spent over all. :xszpv::xszpv:

 

[keepinon]

Another consideration on the GL1500 wing. I'd try to buy a 1997 or newer model, as the transmissions were beefed up considerably. I've seen many '93 - '95 models with tranny problems, mostly 4th gear won't stay engaged. Very expensive fix.

The only oil leaks I've seen that puddled on the ground, were from the shifter shaft seal. An easy fix.. but you don't have to tell the seller that.

Also, in this area, I've seen a couple of GL1500 (93-95) Interstate models that were triked. Just know this model has no reverse.

 

[JaysGone]

Zero importance to me.
Condition is everything.

 

[Haste Maker]

Where are you located? I know a guy that has a GL1500 trike for sale...not sure of the trike kit make or the year model or miles..I do know that this guy thinks that a 100 mile ride is a long ride.

 

[waldo]

Central Minnesota but am considering long distance purchase under the right circumstances

Where are you located? I know a guy that has a GL1500 trike for sale...not sure of the trike kit make or the year model or miles..I do know that this guy thinks that a 100 mile ride is a long ride.

 

[Haste Maker]

Pm send with info about a person that has a 1500 for sale..

 

[scribe5]

The last few bikes I've bought have been used and I never had a reason to regret the purchase. However, mileage to me is everything. None has had mileage over 13,000. I'd rather ride than wrench someone else's problems.

 

[paid4c4]

Just bought a 2006 GL from the 76 year old original owner with 21K miles and a Motor Trike conversion. The trike is like new mechanically and cosmetically. The mileage was the selling point to me as I don't consider this any kind of mileage at all. Good luck with your search.

Bill

 

[rhino 2]

Its not so much how many miles on a bike.... But how those miles were put on... Some people treat their bikes like their in love with it.... Others treat them like there a Rental and every few years return them back to the dealer and get a new one....If they can't sell it off of their driveway that is!... With Me.. They go back to the dealer.....

 

[waldo]

Well I have made the leap or at least have a verbal agreement. I went for a higher mileage Trike (80K) but gut feeling and condition and equipment kind of won out. Wish me luck and hope to be back on here soon as an owner/rider again!

 

[Shimpy]

..

 

[paid4c4]

We are all waiting for photos of the new ride

 

[wingit]

Waldo and Mn guys..

Might see you at the bridge bar north of Crosby.

I notice more trikes there the last 2 years.

We have a shack in the woods near there. No electric,LP lights and a wood stove but pretty spot overlooking a pond. Happy Day, lew