What to look for when buying a used bike?

beggars_bush · 14-09-2021 10:11pm #1

I am planning on going to go across country to view a very nice looking used bike at the weekend and hopefully go for a little spin on it.

What would you recommend that I look out for with a used bike?

Squidgy Black · 15-09-2021 9:15am

Check for play or any crunching/friction in the headset and bottom bracket, check over the frame for any cracks, bring it for a spin and shift through most of the gears and make sure there's no grinding or chain hopping, if it has rim brakes check the braking surface and see how much life is left on it, check that the wheels run true when spun (no buckles or dish etc).

ednwireland · 15-09-2021 12:09pm

check the serial numbers on the frame (get a photo before you travel preferably ) see if hey have receipts for the bike

then check for play in headset bottom bracket and wheel bearings, check gear/brake operation

undo quick releases and check axles, last secondhand bike i bought had a loose freehub and broken axle which needed a new rear wheel - not problem with the price i was paying as the rest of the bike was fine.

magicbastarder · 15-09-2021 7:03pm

Do you have a chain wear checker? If so bring that, if the chain is badly worn it could need more than just a new chain.

What to look for when buying a used bike?

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