| If you are looking to buy a bicycle, consider | | | | deliberately touched-up to look like new. This can |
| buying second-hand bikes. They can save you | | | | uncover the real age of the bicycle. |
| plenty of money and yet get the best deal out of | | | | 2) You must always ride the bike to test it. If the |
| your money. Of course, buying new bikes will give | | | | owner does not let you, then something bad is up. |
| you zero worries. But some people do like the | | | | 3) Shift the gears and check for the quality of |
| challenge of finding a used bike to buy. A trash | | | | the derailleurs. Sometimes, shifters can also wear |
| belonging to someone else might be a treasure | | | | out. Feel the shifter with your fingers and if you |
| that belongs to you. | | | | feel there is any more than few millimetres of |
| Preparation | | | | empty space movement, it means that wear has |
| You must do your homework well. Knowing you | | | | occurred. |
| will be buying used bikes, you must be more | | | | 4) Examine the chain rings. See it from above. If |
| well-prepared than when buying a new one. If you | | | | all of the teeth look the same, then it is a fine |
| are a beginner, it is most recommended that you | | | | chain ring. |
| get an friend who is experienced in bicycles to | | | | 5) Also check the cogs for obvious bents. |
| come along with you. | | | | 6) For checking the hub, carry the bike and put it |
| Where to look? | | | | in an upside down position. See if the hub moves |
| You should look at newspapers for classifieds and | | | | unnecessarily. If it is, chances are it is worn out. |
| advertisements. Otherwise, you can simply spread | | | | 7) Rotate the wheels and see if they spin without |
| it by word of mouth. Sometimes, you will find | | | | sounds. See if the rim and brake pads collide or |
| people who have just bought their expensive | | | | not. If they do, this means that the rim is bent |
| bikes months ago and now want to sell them off, | | | | already. |
| due to lost interest. This is the best advantage | | | | 8) Last of all, check the bottom bracket. |
| when buying used bikes. | | | | De-attach the chain rings (front part) so that the |
| How to check the bike? | | | | crank can rotate freely. Move it from side to side. |
| 1) Check its paint. See whether it has been | | | | If they do not slide from side to side, it is fine. |