Buying a used bike: the list of 10 things to absolutely check

The shortage of raw materials that many industries are suffering from does not spare the bicycle market. And probably for you too, your bike shop is out of stock and you are forced to turn to second-hand. Don't worry! It's a good idea too and it is just as possible to find what you are looking for. But on condition that you do a few checks so as not to come across an unpleasant surprise. 3bikes.fr has thought of you and offers you here an example of checklist of the 10 things to check before buying a used bike.

By Jean-François Tatard – Photos: depositphotos.com

Already, before anything else, a new or used bike, it's worth trying out. This is the first thing you need to do. Indeed, it is important to try the bike to be sure that it has no defects or flaws and that it suits you perfectly. And if you are convinced by this first test, you can then go back to your checklist which will allow you not to miss anything among the things to check before purchasing.

The list of things to check before buying a used bike

In order :

1. Check the bike's history

What did the previous owner use it for? How was it maintained? In what circumstances was it sold? Why? Why was it bought? How long ago? Where and from whom? Have there been any falls? Repairs? Where? By whom? How? Where is the bike sleeping? In the cellar? In the garage? On the balcony? If the seller is honest, he will give you all the elements, including the correct estimate of the mileage and will not try to hide the reality. And in the worst case, Strava is an excellent tool tracking. It will be enough to check on the cyclists' favorite application how the previous owner behaved in terms of use (mileage, speed, elevation, location, etc.).

2. Check the frame

If there is one main element in the bike, it is the frame. Check the frame carefully for cracks. Particularly check the areas where the forces are concentrated on the bike frame: head tube, bottom bracket, rear fork. Laterally with your foot push hard on the crank positioned downwards. This will give you a good indication.

3. Check the direction

To check the condition of the steering, lift the front wheel and turn the handlebars from left to right. The bearings should not have any resistance or creaking. Also, brake with the front brake and move the bike back and forth. The steering should not have any play, otherwise it will need to be changed.

4. Check the stem, handlebars, saddle and seat post

First, check the appearance of the handlebars for cracks. Then check the condition of the screws and threads. Take the handlebar by the horn and push hard on it. It's better for it to break now than in the middle of a descent. But normally, if it's in good condition, your strength won't be enough to break it. As for the seat post, it should not be cracked or damaged. Also, once the bike is adjusted to your size, there should be at least 10 cm of seat post left inside the frame. Otherwise, it's too short. As for the saddle, it should not have any play or tearing, and look carefully under the carriage to make sure there are no cracks and on the rails too.

5. Check the condition of the wheels

Take the wheels off the bike. Spin the wheels by holding them with your hand at the hub. Check that the bearings are not creaking. Check by hand that all the spokes are sufficiently tight. The wheels should not be warped. Once on the bike, check how they react to braking. You should not feel any play. Finally, check that there are no cracks on the entire rim. And also check the braking strip if you are still using rim brakes. Or that the disc is not warped if it is a disc brake. Take your time.

6. Check the tires

This is not the best indicator, because you are usually not going to delay changing them. But just in case, the tires should not be cracked or have cuts. If the surface is completely flat, they are at the end of their life.

7. Check the brakes

Check the responsiveness of the brakes. For the discs, if you feel that it is too soft at the brake lever, it is certainly necessary to bleed. Also check that the discs are not warped. Take a good look at the condition of the pads too. And for traditional pads, check the cables and the sheaths and the wear of the pads.

8. Check the chain

There is a small tool to measure the state of wear of the chain. Ask someone to lend it to you. In short, if the chain has lengthened, it is a sign that it is worn. The less the chain shows the teeth of the chainring with the small tool: the less worn it is. The chain is ultimately changed quite often and it is better to change it more regularly to have to change the cassette and/or the chainrings less often.

9. Check the trays

The best way to know how worn a chainring is is to look at the shape of the teeth. The sharper the teeth, the more worn the chainrings are.

10. Check the derailleurs

The front and rear derailleurs are probably the most technical parts of a bike. The best advice we can give you is to check them in real conditions. Also look at the condition of the pulleys, the condition of the derailleur hanger, the gear indexing if it is mechanical, the return of the return springs. By the way, If you opt for electric, don't forget to ask for the battery charging cables.

To conclude…

To avoid any misunderstanding, it is important to clearly define the payment terms in advance. But before finalizing the transaction, take your time. Check all the elements and components carefully. Also compare prices and make sure everything is in line with market reality. And if you don't feel comfortable with the process, get help from a professional or an expert you trust.

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