General Cycling Discussion - Question about buying used bikes

I've never bought a used bike but I'm considering buying one from the classifieds at mtbr.com and it's a bit risky I guess considering you cant test ride first.

What kind of questions are important to ask the seller before committing to buy? Or are there any? I'm just wondering if there are certain things I should look out for when buying used. Thanks

Personally, I would avoid buying a used bike online unless I knew exactly what I was getting or the price was insanely cheap (I mean so cheap that I would not mind if I was getting scammed). With off-road bikes, especially, you have no idea how they have been ridden or cared for.

Try to find a something local, then you give the bike a once over very carefully and meet the seller face-to-face.

Of course, if it is a one of kind deal, then you may have no choice. Usually, the first question I ask anyone when buying something used is- "Why are selling this?"

- Jeff

i bought a fork off mtbr once. Hooked up with the guy and everything looked great. Paid him 3 bills and left. I get home to mount it and it turns out the fork creaks like a mad man. Steerer tube is cracked a bit inside where i couldn't see. But i once bought a used bike.....greatest condition ive seen. Its like it was never used and the owner even cleaned it up fro me. Really nice guy. You sometimes get lucky and sometimes you don't. Be careful if y ou buy online.

What kind of questions are important to ask the seller before committing to buy? Or are there any? I'm just wondering if there are certain things I should look out for when buying used. Thanks

I would avoid any used MTB that has seen a lot offroad use. I'd also ask the seller if the bike has been modified. If it has,ask if the work was performed by a professional mechanic. Bikes are often dumped on eBay when repairs and mods go wrong by people who don't have the mechanical skills or proper tools to match the work.

Other questions:

What is the history of the bike.

Is the bottom bracket and crank tight?

Are the steering components in excellent working order.

Do the front and rear derailleurs work properly and does it shift smoothly.

Has the bike ever been involved in a crash and was there any damage to the frame or forks.

Ask about the condition of the brakes, tires, cables and how it rides.

Ask what repairs it will need and why are they selling it.

If a seller doesn't give you straight answers to your questions,consider moving on. Many shop mechanics sell used bikes on the side that are tuned and ready to ride.

Regards.