The thrill of riding a dirt bike in difficult terrains cannot be put into words. However, entertaining this passion falls heavy on the pocket.
Owing to the cost of buying a dirt bike and its accessories, many are forced to walk out on their love for dirt bikes. Fortunately, buying a used dirt bike is the best option to nurture the love for the sport.
Although an ideal option, buying a used dirt bike can be exhausting. You may not know how the bike was used and what you are getting. Nonetheless, if you keep your eyes wide open and know what is best, a used dirt bike will not disappoint you. If you are a fan of Yamaha motors, the Yamaha trim motor operates smoothly with exceptional reliability.
Let us help you here. Here is your most essential used dirt bike buying guide.
Ace Your Visual Inspection Game
Several times in life, the truth dances in front of our naked eyes, but we fail to take notice. Doing the same here might burn a hole in your pocket.
So, keep your eyes wide open and savor every inch of the used dirt bike. Take a closer look and inspect everything possible with the naked eye.
The first look will give you cognizance of the bike’s condition, while a closer look will reveal more information. Start with inspecting the frame to spot signs of any visceral damage due to crashes. Check for cracks or bends, especially in frame welds.
Next, check the tires for cracks and bends. Give a spin to the wheel to rule out wobble. Check the spokes and hubs too. If you spot no problem, buy the dirt bike.
Check the Air Filters
Never buy a dirt bike without checking the air filters because air filters give the true picture of the condition of a bike. Dirty air filters imply that the bike has been poorly maintained.
If the filters are clean, you can assume that the bike was well-maintained in the past and will pose no big trouble in the future. However, you would still want to change the air filters of the bike.
Check the Engine Oil
Furthermore, check the engine oil. Start with checking the level. A low fluid level could be due to a damaged engine component. Additionally, if the color of the oil is dark or black, it depicts poor maintenance.
One thing to remember here is that always check the oil level after starting and running the bike.
Check Breaks, Sprockets, and Chains
The next thing you might want to check before buying a used dirt bike is its brake.
Remove the brake pads and watch out for glazed surfaces.
If it is not possible, try to gauge the condition of the brakes through visual inspection. If the amount of pad material is lower than 1 mm in thickness, consider replacing them. Next, check the sprockets and chain.
You might have to replace the chains if you see kinks and worn chain pins and links. Additionally, check the sprockets.
Buy Used Parts Wisely
Repairing and maintaining dirt bikes can be expensive. But compromising on the parts can take a toll on your bike. Never try to cut corners while buying used bike parts, but be wise.
You can buy the parts directly from the vendor, but it will be expensive. Do a little research and find a reputed online or offline vendor to get good quality parts at their best price. Online places, like the MX store, sell good quality bike parts.
The Bottom Line
The poor condition of a used dirt bike can be a deal breaker for you. Hence, ensure you check everything before buying. We hope these tips will help you find the right used dirt bike.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Fred Felton
Content Creator / Editor
Fred Felton is a copywriter, editor and social media specialist based in Durban, South Africa. He has over 20 years of experience in creating high end content. He has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. Currently Fred specialises in the motorbiking adventure space, focussing on all types of biking both on and offroad. He is also a keynote speaker and has presented talks and workshops in South Africa.
