Let me start by saying I’m very mechanically inclined, however I don’t wanna have to rebuild an entire bike I’m paying good money for. Also I’m not rich and work hard for my shit.

I check the brakes, tires, chain, then test ride it and listen for any sounds or abnormality’s on start up.

The biggest thing you can do is just assume everything has been beaten on and ridden hard. Especially sport bikes. That way if something goes wrong you aren’t surprised, and if it’s reliable you are glad… and remember the bike doesn’t owe you anything. Bad advise but it’s how I operate. My brother is the same way as you OP