Global Sports: Looking For Used Road Bike? Read This First

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Looking For Used Road Bike? Read This First

By Jimmy Cox


Biking definitely comes with many benefits to your health and finances. Whatever your age is at the moment, you can always have the opportunity to learn how to do it. But of course, this starts with having your own equipment. Perhaps, you do not have enough money to buy a new one. Try getting a used road bike and used bike parts that will suit to your needs and skills as a new biker. There are some things though which you must bear in mind so that your money would not be wasted on this.

Search For Credible Sellers. The number of stolen bikes increase dramatically every year. If you are not careful enough, you could be buying any of these. Do a substantial research online to beat this. Once you get to a seller's website, study the reviews of the past and present buyers. Communicate with the seller through email or chat. Look for clues about their motivation for selling their second hand items. You can also key in relevant keywords that can lead you to the domains of credible sellers.

Probe About The Origin Of The Bikes Sold. In connection to the first tip mentioned, you will never know if you are buying a used road bike that is stolen unless you research enough. In the same manner, you could be buying an equipment that has gone through lots of accidents with the previous owner. For your safety and security know the past of the equipment you are eyeing on before paying for it, even ask for biking tips especially if you are a beginner in using that road bike.

Check Over All Condition. Cracks and rust are common to second hand bicycles. They can give you an idea how your prospective bicycle has been used and cared for. Firstly, check the frame. If it has a dent or its paint is chipped, the previous owner most probably had an accident with it. A cheap road bike usually comes with a history of accident. Here is a tip. Go for frames that are made of carbon fiber because it is light but sturdy. Next, scrutinize the wheels and spokes. Are they firm and rigid? Are they damage and rust free? Check the tires. In case of flat tires, just have them replaced with new rubbers to ensure they do not have holes. And for your utmost safety, inspect the condition of the brakes, pedals and chains. These parts are key for your safe movement on wheels. Take your chosen bicycle for a test drive to see whether your lever and brake connectors are okay at different speeds. Notice too whether the chain and pedals spin smoothly as you bike.

Choose A Durable Material. A used road bike that is created from quality material can definitely stand the test of time even though it changes owners. While steel is a great material, aluminium is ideal for riders especially when they are biking on a regular basis. Aluminium is much lighter than steel and so it is much comfortable to drive. More so, aluminium bikes would not give grave arm and back pains during instances when they need to be carried by their owners.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment