The purchase of a second-hand or used trial bike is a process that generates as much excitement as fear (or respect). A large part of the Users looking for a used trial bike it is because they are looking to get started in the specialty; In this case, the process is even more complicated, since the difficulty of Finding a Balanced Budget, is joined by the lack of knowledge of which models or brands are the most interesting.
In this video that we have prepared, the task is to understand how to evaluate technically, administratively and mechanically a trial bike that we have in front of us, or that we are considering buying by establishing a contact with the potential seller.
In this case, we do not address the previous scenario, which would be to decide which brand, model or age range fits our pretensions. For this, we have posted a comment on the YouTube video itself, where we make a small list of the most conflictive models or those for which it is already difficult to find spare parts.
In addition to this video, we leave you a summary table below of the aspects you have to review, divided into three sections: administrative, mechanical and cycle part.
TRIAL BIKE REVIEW CHECKLIST
ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW
- Existence of original data sheet
- Verification of the year of manufacture in relation to aesthetics and date of registration
- If it is registered, confirm a valid MOT and the existence of the Kit to pass the ITV
- If you do not have documentation, a purchase and sale contract is made only
MECHANICAL OVERHAUL
- Visual assessment of the general condition
- Checking the colour of the cylinder and detecting possible water leaks in the cylinder
- Checking the color of the engine oil from the porthole
- Cold start and assessment of both sound and difficulty/ease of process
- Checking idle ability, rev upswing, and engine efficiency
- With temperature, electric fan check and possible water leaks
- Checking the exhaust system (clearance due to smoke breaks or leaks) and exhaust fibre (sound)
- Checking the electrical system
- Checking the clutch, both in terms of feel, drag and tension
- Gearbox and controls operation check
REVISION OF THE CYCLE
- Millimetric revision of the chassis, with a focus on the joints and possible alterations of color tones (repainting)
- Revision of the front axle: steering turn with wheel in the air, condition of fork and seals
- Revision of bearing clearances on both axles
- Transmission kit overhaul and eccentrics (more voltage, shorter service life)
- General review of controls: operation, alignment, etc.
- Revision of the sump cover plate and condition of the linkages
- Shock and fork rebound and compression checks
- Review of the condition of plastics and bodywork
- Analysis of tyres by wear and date of manufacture
- Brake check (feel, pad wear and dynamic efficiency test)
By way of conclusion, remember that your initial budget should always have a margin for tuning and updating the bike. The key is to know how to calculate the total expense that you will have to invest in the motorcycle once the above aspects have been reviewed.
So, don’t be dazzled by the aesthetics. Also, don’t look for a new bike in impeccable condition at a bargain price, because it’s difficult. This is about finding a good balance between condition and price, being aware that the bike is bought for fun, not to do business. In other words, some maintenance will always have to be done, but we must avoid suspicious noises, excessive wear or obvious inconsistencies.
At Trialworld Store we have this section dedicated to second-hand and second-hand trial bikes, completely revised. We will be happy to help you find your next trial bike.
And as a next solution, you know, consider the option of buying a new trial bike and compare what compensates you the most (in the long run).
