How Do I Inspect a Used Dirt Bike Before Buying?

Before you go

Ask the seller not to start the bike before you arrive. A cold start tells you far more than a warm engine. Bring a torch, a rag and a friend.

Frame and bodywork

• Look for cracks, kinks or fresh welds on the frame and subframe
• Check the steering head and swingarm for damage
• Check plastics for cracks and mismatched colours

Forks and shock

• Fork legs should be clean and smooth, with no pitting or oil leaks
• Push down on the bars and check the forks move smoothly and rebound evenly
• Check the shock for oil leaks and that it is not rusty

Wheels, tyres and brakes

• Spin the wheels and check for wobble and bent rims
• Check for broken or loose spokes
• Check the brake pads and discs for wear
• Check the tread and condition of the tyres

Drivetrain

• The chain should not be rusty or have tight links, and the sprocket teeth should not be hooked
• Check the bearings in the swingarm and linkage for play

Engine

• Check the oil level and colour, and look for milky oil, which is a bad sign
• Look around the gaskets for leaks
• Do a cold start, and listen for rattles, smoke and odd noises
• Check the clutch and gear changes through every gear

Controls and cables

Levers, grips, throttle return and cables should all be smooth. Bent levers and bars suggest a crash.

Paperwork

Check the bike is not stolen or owing money, and look at service history. Ask how many hours it has done, and see how many hours is too many.

Ask for a test ride, but be realistic

Many private sellers will not allow it. If they do, wear your own gear. Pick up kit at GearShed if you need it.

Bring the right gear if you test ride

If the seller lets you ride, wear a full set of your own gear. A borrowed helmet that does not fit is not good enough. GearShed's guides to helmet fit and the boots range will help you get it right first time.

Or skip the guesswork: all our dirt bikes in stock have been through our workshop. See also how much a used bike costs.

ShowShed is a Hamilton dirt bike and quad dealer, back to the home page or browse every bike in stock. Gear for the ride is at our sister store GearShed.