What to checked for when buying a used bike

smithy01 · Two Stroke Sniffer Joined: 09 Jun 2010 Karma :

Hi

Might be buying a DT125X soon as i don’t know much about bikes just wondering if you can tell me what i should check for

Check lights, Oil Levels, Go Through Gears that’s about all i know anyone add to that list

Thanks

27cows · World Chat Champion Joined: 01 Nov 2009 Karma :

First thing to check is the frame number, make sure it looks right and hasn't been tampered with. And that the engine number matches that on the frame.

Check the front of the frame around the headstock carefully for signs of damage - DT's often end up heavily stacked.

Pay close attention to the monoshock for signs of leakage and linkage wear.

Check the ends of the grips and the levers for signs of scrapage and crash damage.

Look at the condition of the calipers and make sure the brakes work well. These are frequently neglected after being covered in crap. Also make sure the discs aren't heavily worn - as they often seem to be on DTs.

Don't take any excuses from the seller regarding things like the lack of a V5 and the frame/engine numbers not matching. If it seems dodgy, it'll be dodgy - DTs are one of the most nicked bikes in existence.
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c_dug · Super Spammer Joined: 04 Sep 2007 Karma :

My dad told me to print off an MOT checklist and go over that when you are looking at the bike, don't be afraid to pull out the list infront of the seller and go through it one by one Thumbs Up

c_dug
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chris-red · Have you considered a TDM? Joined: 21 Sep 2005 Karma :

c_dug · Super Spammer Joined: 04 Sep 2007 Karma :

Edited for stupidness Laughing

How do you know he's my housemate? Take it you mean Dan S?
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I am a bellend, I am a man of constant sorrow, I am a gummy bear, I am a rock.

Paxovasa · World Chat Champion Joined: 25 Apr 2010 Karma :

Do a check on the bike, to see if it has any outstanding finance, insurance claim or stolen.

Check chain and sprockets for wear, tyres, start the bike from cold and check exhaust for smoking excessively (it is a 2 stroke and will smoke a bit).
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chris-red · Have you considered a TDM? Joined: 21 Sep 2005 Karma :