Buying and Checking out a Used Road Bicycle...?

Question

I posted earlier but need clarification. I'm buying a used road bike for 500$ which is a lot of money, and was wondering what ALL the things are I should look over the bike before buying. Also, when riding the bike, what should I be aware of? Also, how do I test to make sure the components are solid..? By the way, the bike is my size, and it's a Giant OCR 2 from 2003. I believe it's the aluminum frame, Tiagra Derailers, STI shifters and all that. Looks pretty new from the pics, no scratches etc. But I still want to thoroughly check it before buying.

Answer 1

A 2003 model bike may have been released in late 2002 (next years model usually comes out around October).

The chances of picking up a good bike on Tiaga level components at this age is quite good. There are a lot of people that start out with the best intentions and then either give it away or upgrade. It usually takes a few years for them to part with the bike.

Check the frame and forks thoroughly

You need to concentrate on how much wear it has had.

If you look inside the front derailleur you will see scratches from where it has been changing gear (more scratches more use) The shape of the teeth on the front derailleur will also be a good indicator, any consistent odd shape on the leading edge will be an indication of wear. The cluster is a similar thing but also check that all sprockets are the same width.

Change you rear gears up and down and look to see that at each gear the chain winds up in a similar position with each sprocket it doesn't need to be spot on, just consistent. (you can adjust it quite easily.)

Lift the front wheel off the ground wait for the wheel to move under its own weight, if it doesn't give it quarter of a turn. If it won't turn under its own weight it could be just that the cones are a bit tight. Give it a spin and listen for any grinding noises and look to see if there is a buckle in the rim. Push the spokes apart and check where they touch together wear will show up as an obvious divot

The rear wheel is a similar process but it is quite unlikely to turn under its own weight. Push the tyre and rim a side to side and check for any excessive movement in the hub.

Turn the steering side to side and feel for any tight spots

Visually look over and under the saddle for any noticeable damage.

Finally get on and go for a spin If it feels good it probably is.

Answer 2

Seems like a square deal for an entry level road bike. Giants are of good quality, Tiagra is the beginning level of nine speed components so you can get parts easily down the road. Eight speed stuff you want to stay away from as it's hard to find chain rings, cassettes.... chains are easy to come buy but the rest is tuff.

See if you can take it to your local bike shop and they can take a quick once over to be sure frame integrity and operation of components are up to safe riding...