Cyclocross - Not another "should I buy this bike" thread

Sort of...

I am going to check out a used Poprad this week, so I am wondering a few things.

As this is my first foray into CX bikes I am looking for some advice of what to look for and beware of on a used bike.

Here is the info I have on it from CL and an email:

Lemond Poprad. Black frame with Blue and Grey logo. Newer full 105 drivetrain(ridden for less than 4 months). Ultegra 9 speed shifters. Carbon seat post. Bontrager wheelset. Shorty 4 brakes.

It is a 55 cm (I ride a 57/8 road bike).

He has raced the frame a few times, never the drivetrain.

Frame is an 04 (he thinks). Will throw in a pair of slicks as well.

$500...

So, two questions:
What particularly should I inspect closely as it has been raced and actually used as a cx bike.
Generally, what do you think?

Oh, I hope to ride some mild single track, fireroads, commute, and the occasional longer road ride.

Thanks in advance.

Perhaps just one more note I should add. I originally was not considering the Lemond because I was set on the CrossCheck for the sake of its ultimate versatility. But it seems like this is a really nice deal and could work for what I am going to be doing.

500 is a real good deal IF the bike is in good shape. Most race bikes (assuming they weren't ridden into trees every weekend) are usually in good shape. Just inspect it for any dings, cracks, or rust... the usual.

Think about what you would trash if you were to race CX or have a good crash. The Propad frame is steel so is more likely to absorb the energy of a crash and spring back into shape than an Al frame so that's an automatic plus.
Headsets can get a lot of stick, check for tightness or play.
Is the frame straight, check with your eyes. Any scratches, rust around drain holes?
Handle bars bent from an endo?
Whats the bottom bracket like CX bike can get used in all conditions.
Wheels are they true, give them a spin.

Give it a ride (check for front brake squeal) remember you might later want to put a longer stem on. Worse that can happen is you decide you don't like it in 6 months time and sell on or keep the 105 kit and buy a new frame.

Thanks all. This is helpful. I think the asking about the use of framesaver is a given. If there is rust internally will I most likely see rust around the drain holes?

I also like the idea of getting with the option to switch out the components. It is a big step up from the CrossCheck stock. I could end up getting a CC frameset and switch out must of the bits.

I bought it! It is gorgeous and is such a smooth, smooth ride! Tomorrow I put her through the paces on some mild(ish) single-track.

I will try to post some pics. I do have some questions (forthcoming) about what you would and wouldn't do on this bike.

Now I just need to sell my road ride and my wife will be happy too!

Thanks for the help.