If you're short on cash and wanted to buy a great bike then the only option is to buy used bikes. Unfortunately, in the second hand market there are a lot of bikes that needs fixing so instead of saving money you'll end up shelling out more. Check out the video above as ex-Professional cyclist Simon Richardson discuss what to look out for when buying a second hand bike.
He also said to have a check list of the following components:
Frame & Forks - this is the most valuable part of the bike. It should not be bent, cracked, or dented. It should not be rusted, look for bubbling in the paint it a sign of corrosion. If it's a carbon bike watch out for those cracks.
Headset - check if it has a loose headset by squeezing the breaks then rock the bike backwards and forwards, if you hear a knocking noise then it may have a loose headset. It's easy to fix and cheap to replace but it's a sign that the owner didn't maintain it very well.
Wheels - make sure that it runs straight by spinning it. Check spoke tensions, they should be tight. Check out the rim breaking surface, it should be flat if it's concave then it may suggest that it is already worn out. This could be really expensive to replace.
Wheel Bearings - grab the tires the move the wheel from side to side if there are any play and knocking it may suggest that the wheel bearings are worn out.
Tyres - inspect the tires, watch out for cuts and holes.
Driverain - check out for worn out chains, chainrings, and cassette.
Derailleurs - check by changing gears also check for the gear cables.
Cranks - move side to side, if there's a play then it may be worn out.
Brakes - squeeze the calipers it should move easily and should spring back easily.
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