Check Out the Bike

A trail bike that has not been properly maintained is not only expensive to fix, but can also be unsafe and dangerous. If you're buying a used motor bike from a dealer, the chances are good that it's been examined by a professional, and any obvious mechanical problems have already been fixed. A used bike from a dealer may also come with a warranty.

Unfortunately, buying a used off road bike from a dealer is more expensive than buying from an individual owner. If you don't mind taking your chances to save some money, the first thing you want to check out are the wheel bearings. Put the bike on a frame and spin the wheels. They should spin straight and noiselessly. Also pull back and forth on each of the wheels. There should be no wiggle.