If you’re looking to save money on a new bike, buying used is a great option. Motorbike Service But before you jump in, it’s important to know a few things about the used bike market and what to look for.
First and foremost, you should be clear about what type of bike you want. This will help you narrow down your search, and it can also give you a better idea of the kind of price range you can expect to be looking at. If you’re unsure about what you need, it’s a good idea to visit a local bike shop and talk with one of the staff. They will be able to help you decide on what type of bike will suit your needs and budget best, and will be able to point you in the right direction for finding it online.
Size and Fit
This may sound like a no brainer, but it’s important to make sure that the bike you buy will be suitable for your frame size. If you’re not familiar with your frame size, it’s a good idea to have it measured by a professional before making any purchase. The bike shop should be able to help you convert your frame size to that of the model you’re looking at, and they’ll be able to let you know how much a new bike would cost in this frame size.
Secondly, you should take the bike for a test ride. This will give you an idea of how it handles, and will allow you to spot any problems before you purchase. Try riding it around the block and shifting through the gears several times. Once you’re satisfied that the gears shift well without clicking, stop the bike and spin it to check that it doesn’t wobble.
It’s also a good idea to test the brakes as well. This will help you see if the brakes work properly, as well as giving you an indication of how much wear they’ve had. If the brakes are worn, it’s a good idea to find out how long they’ve been used and whether or not they’ve had any repairs or service done to them.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and to request photos of any parts you’re not sure about. This can be especially useful if you’re looking to buy a used bike online and you can’t take it for a test ride.
If you can, read the seller’s description of the bike carefully. It might be wordy, but it’s often filled with stories about the bike and its previous owners.
Next, look at the pictures in the listing or on the website. This can be helpful in giving you a real sense of the condition of the bike and whether it’s worth paying a higher price for. Are there any dents, dings or scratches that could be indicative of poor maintenance?
It’s also a good idea to look at any parts that aren’t included in the sale, such as saddles, grips and pedals. These are usually cheap and easy to replace if they’re damaged, so be sure to pay close attention to them.