How to buy a used bike

Buying your first bike is really exciting but can also turn into a minefield if you don’t know what to look for. This is especially true with used bikes, which should give you more for your money. Here’s the RIDE guide to dodging the lemons and finding an

Do your research

What will you be using the bike for? What are there known faults with the model you’re interested in? Can you still buy parts for it? Local bike meets, owners’ clubs and specialists dealer are usually happy to help a potential new rider – but take advice on forums with a pinch of salt.

Read the advert

How descriptive is the ad? Does it sound like the seller know what they’re talking about? Always ring before going to see a bike – you can tell a lot more about a seller from talking rather than from email or text messages. If in doubt, don’t bother.

Take a friend

You’ll be excited, so you need to keep focused. Take a knowledgeable friend (or even pay a trusted mechanic to come with you). They’ll keep you from getting carried away and may spot something you don’t.

First impressions

It may look shiny but is it original paint or covering problems? Look inside the fairings - is it as nice in the crevasses you can’t see so easily?

“You’ll be excited, so you need to keep focused”