Originally Posted by
letitsnow
I would not be afraid of a used bike. There really isn't much too them - as long as the fork and shock hold air and aren't leaking oil, there isn't much to be afraid of. Pivot bearings are cheap and easy to replace.
If you know what you are looking at, buying a used bike can be a great value way of getting one, but you have no warranty, and you have to know what you are buying, with eyes open.
If you live in an area which has a winter, you will go through cassettes, chainring, BB's, chains regular, i.e. every 6 months or so, even summer riding will wear parts, every other year, you can add shifters, wheels wear out / get damaged, brakes need bleeding & pad and gear cable need replacing, and frames break.
For Forks & shocks, these need regular cleaning / service, stanchion / shaft wear can kill them, bearing can be replaced, with stainless steel ones for longevity, but this all comes at a cost.