Used Dirt Bike Buying Checklist

When purchasing a second hand dirt bike, or any motor vehicle for that matter, you never know what you’re getting. Just because the seller says it was rebuilt, does not mean it will not grenade on you an hour after you get home. If you have never gone to look at a second hand dirt bike before, using the below listed things you can jump start your bike search. 

Just look at it – Upon arrival, you can tell if the dirt bike is a functional one, or if it’s an absolute junkbox on wheels. So, have a good look at the plastic, frame, and overall sanitation of it. 

Frame damage – If the bike has been in a major or several crashes, the frame generally shows it. Look out for unusual cracks or bends at the welds or where 2 sections meet. If the subframe is bent, it is generally easy to notice by looking at the dirt bike from the rear. 

Wheels – Have a good look at both the wheels for cracks or bends, and also missing spokes. If anything is missing or damaged then the dirt bike was ridden rough or rode on jagged terrain. You can roll the wheels to check out if they vibrate at all. 

 

Suspension – You may have to get it re-valved for your load, or it may just have to be serviced if the seller has not done it in a while. This could be as little as new oil & a charge of nitrogen. 

Swing-arm/ Linkage – By keeping the bike on the main stand, move the swing-arm up & down, and also side-to-side. It must move freely without binding. If it is rough or shake, it’ll have to be serviced & you may require a new bushing kit. 

Chain – Check for kinks, and also how far it’s on the adjuster. If there is no room left for tuning, it is because the chain is expanded out & is in need of replacement. 

Brakes – Check out the brake pads for wear. If they are close to the limit marks, they’ve to be replaced. Also check out the brake fluid in the master cylinders. If it is low or filthy, it may have to be flushed out. 

Seat – Does it have any rips? If the dirt bike seat cover was replaced, was it put on perfectly? This has no mechanical function, but most of us love to see our dirt bikes looking great. 

Engine noises – Start & let the engine at rest for a minimum of one minute. Listen for any ticking or rattling? If it is a four-stroke & it ticks with the RPM of the engine, it is perhaps a worn timing chain or tensioned. If there is a rattle that gets visibly quiter when the engine is completely warmed up, it may be the piston rattle, which will require a rebuild. 

Want to give your used dirt bike a new look? Find a great collection of dirt bike seat covers, and ATV seat covers at Y & S Designs. To get customized dirt bike seat covers online get in touch with us now!