10/10   i'm shopping for an used sport bike and my budget is around $5000.
        what do i need to pay attention in terms of mileages, brand, and
        other things?  thanks.
        \_ Ask if it has been raced, do not buy a bike that has been
           raced, unless you get a deep discount. Look for evidence
           like safety wire holes, etc. Ask if it has been in an
           accident. Have an independent mechanic check for things
           like frame straightness. All modern sportbikes are
           reliable, just don't buy anything more than 10 years old.
           Everyone has their own favorites regarding brand. My
           advice is to buy what you like. -ausman
           \_ thanks!  what's considered as high-mileage/low-mileage?
              \_ This is tricky.  Low mileage can be just a big a
                 flag as high - either they have several bikes or they
                 barely ride it.  Thus may not maintain it.  1-10k/yr
                 is fine, but above 30k be sure to get the mechanic
                 opinion.  My old BMW was fine at 70k, but a gsxr is not.
                 \_ Anything in particular to watch out on old (~1988) bikes
                    with low miles (<10K)?  What is most likely to
                    deteriorate from neglect, other than the oil/hoses/fuel?
                    \_ If stored outside, a very low mileage bike from the
                       80s may have siezed bolts that will be a bitch
                       to remove/destroy.  The rust is established.
        \_ EX500 is good because nweaver has one. Also not too many plastics
           so if you drop you will not get as depressed as say a nice 600RR.
           \_ No, nweaver has a VFR, his girl friend has an EX250...
        \_ Don't spend $5000 on your first bike. You will drop it and
           feel bad. Is this your first bike?
        \_ Get a nice used 10 speed off telegraph or university.  Just bring
           some heavy duty chain cutters you can borrow from someone.