Where to look/ what to look for in a new bike

[Twyzz]

I've been looking in local papers for a cheap bike and came to no conculsion. Now when i do find one, is there some signs i wil notice that means it's a bad bike or has been misteated? I'm not looking to spend over 1000 cause it will be my first bike and I know i will bust my ass when trying to learn

[EGcivicSi]

Well being that your budget is 1000 dont expect much. It is gonna be either really old or have tons of miles on it. Cycletrader.com and Ebay would be some good places to start though and get an idea of what bikes go for.

[Twyzz]

thanks for the info. Like i said I don't care if it's not the best looking/working, i can get one that looks and works nice later when I'm done learning.

[Kennedy200]

One thing to look for is cracks in the frame. In particular, look at the bottom side of the frame around where the head tube is welded. Bikes that have been wheelied to hell and back tend to crack here. Most people dont usualy take the time to contort around to look for crackes in this area.

If you are looking at newer sportbikes, walk away from any bike that has bent forks. If the forks are bent, chances are that the frame is tweaked too.

Also, look for mis fitting body work. If the body doesnt seem to hang on the bike properly, there could be problems.

[flex339]

Got mine for a 160 dollars. Just time for time looking. Good offers will pop up.

[duckmanco]

I got handed a 1982 Yamaha XS650, great cruiser, but hate to just say cruiser because it is smaller and tighter than a traditional cruiser, and its a blast. Its a twin, not a V twin, just a twin and its awesome. its my first bike and I love it, plenty of power before I get the YZF600r a year down the road. Anyway, they can be had for around 700 or so. Great bike.