What to Look for When Buying a Second Hand Bike

When it comes to buying a car you'd never consider purchasing a second hand vehicle without viewing and researching it first. The same goes for buying a bike. For safety reasons it always makes sense to know what you're buying, so you can avoid hurting yourself or others.
Below is a useful guide as to what checks you can make when viewing the second hand bike of your dreams.

1. Rust
Rust is a major warning sign when looking to buy anything mechanical. If the rust is severe enough it can not only look bad, but it can also damage the structural integrity of the bike. Look over the bicycle thoroughly and make sure the chain and moving parts are all well maintained, as sprockets can be expensive to replace. Remember, if it's covered in rust it's most probably been left out in all weathers and has not been properly cared for.

2. Tyres
Tyres are the easiest thing to spot. Check for excessive wear or a flat tyre, these can be a pain to replace and it also means you won't be able to ride it home!

3. Brakes
The brakes are quite possibly the most important part of your bike. If they're jammed or badly worn these will need replacing straight away. Also a jammed brake system is not only ineffective, but if left unnoticed could leave you in a dangerous situation when riding.

4. Front Forks
If the bike you're viewing has front suspension check that it moves smoothly and doesn't jam. If so it could need some oiling. Bent forks could be a sign of a previous crash, check for cracked paint and any unusual bends.

5. Handlebars
The steering on your bicycle is also vitally important. Bent, loose or rigid steering are all dangerous warning signs. If you notice any of these attributes, 'steer' clear as you won't be able to control the bike effectively.

6. Take It For a Service
Even if your bike looks to be in good condition it's best to take it to a reputable bike shop or bike store that can provide you with a full service. Having a professional look over the bike for you can give you a great piece of mind, and they may even spot something you didn't.