mountainwalker

I'm looking to pick up a used 29er hardtail mountain bike in very good condition. In my area there are a lot of guys who buy bikes in the $1000-2000 range, use them for a few months (and most not much at all and not hard) and then want to upgrade, so you can get some great deals on used bikes.

What should you look for when inspecting the bike?

How safe is it to buy a relatively new model year used aluminum or carbon bike in terms of structural integrity of the frame?

mtbikerinpa

If it is a relatively new aluminum(like 1-2 yrs tops) with no excess dings or scrapes, fatigue should not be as much a factor. Still inspect all joints or stress points well. Inspect bearings for play or roughness by grabbing the tire and moving it side to side with relation to the frame or fork, then spin the same while holding the frame. A rough bearing will make a vibration. Not a deal breaker but a bargaining chip. Check the rear derailleur for play by grabbing the bottom pulley and seeing the side to side play. Past 1/4 inch would need attention indicating higher mileage. Depending on replacement costs for that system it could be a deal break or a bargaining chip as well. Look at the bottom bracket for the same factors as the hub bearings and the condition of the chainring teeth.

The fork(if suspended, and interested in keeping) should not have bushing leaks or play. Lock the front brake and note any front or back movement when forced. Most are rebuildable but costs vary. Above all, try it to see if it fits. Sounds obvious but it is less numbers and more intuitive by feel. You can only dress a pretty bike that doesn't fit by so much.