With the price of gasoline on the rise, many drivers are looking for a more affordable way to commute to and from work each day. Opting to invest in a motorcycle could be a simple way to cut the cost of your commute, since these machines are notorious for their great gas mileage.

Purchasing a used motorcycle could save you a significant amount of money when compared with buying new, but it can also require more attention to detail in order to ensure you are getting a reliable machine. Here are three tips that you can use when purchasing your first used motorcycle to ensure you are getting the machine best equipped to meet your needs.

1. Always evaluate the engine when it's cold.

When you schedule an appointment to test drive a used motorcycle, ask the owner not to warm up the machine prior to your arrival. Any issues that may be present within the engine can be camouflaged by warming the machine up.

A cold engine that doesn't start easily or sounds like it is struggling to function properly could indicate that you will have mechanical problems with the bike in the future. Doing something as simple as evaluating the engine when it's cold could help you save on repair costs.

2. Research the cost of replacement parts.

You will probably want to replace the tires and brakes after purchasing a used motorcycle to ensure that these parts are working correctly. It can be beneficial to know the cost of replacement parts prior to test driving a motorcycle, since this information will give you greater bargaining power.

Letting the owner know that the cost of replacement parts will put you over your maximum budget by a specified amount shows that you are knowledgeable, and it will help you gain the respect of the bike's owner. You can use this respect to your advantage to negotiate some money off the purchase price.

3. Ask about the service history.

Regular maintenance is critical when it comes to preserving the integrity of a motorcycle. Before making an offer on a used bike, you should ask the owner about the service history. Documents verifying regular oil changes, chain and sprocket maintenance, and tune-ups will help you determine the motorcycle's condition.

A bike that has been properly maintained is likely to have a longer lifespan, allowing you to maximize the amount of use you get out of your investment.

Purchasing your first used motorcycle can be exciting. Be sure that you are getting a good deal by taking the time to evaluate each potential bike's engine when cold, researching the cost of replacement parts, and inquiring about the service history of the machine.