Buying a Used Dirt Bike: Parts Inspection

During the inspection of a used dirt bike, don’t hold back. Look at all the components closely and inspect for any signs of wear. Remember, this is your hard earned cash, don’t let it go to waste. Here are some parts that you will need to inspect before handing over the payment:

1. Frame

You’ll often know when a dirt bike has been through a major or numerous crashes from the condition of the frame. Look for dents, cracks or stress fractures. Check from the rear of the bike too, it’s a good angle to spot a bent subframe.

If cracks are present on the welds of the frame, we suggest you thank them for their time, and go check the next dirt bike on your list.

Inspect the frame for signs of wear.

2. Wheels and tyres

Check both wheels, see if any flat spots or cracks are present. You’ll also want to check the hubs for cracks and the spokes to ensure they are not seized or alternatively all loose. Spin the wheels to ensure they run true.

Check the wheel bearings for movement and signs of wear. While you’re at it, have a look at the tyres as well. Worn tyres and wheels can be replaced, but you will need to allow for that with your negotiations. A complete wheels and tyres package may be the cheapest way to go if they are no longer in decent shape.

Damage to the rims & hubs can be expensive to fix.

3. Air filter

Check if the bike has a clean air filter installed. Look for dirt or dust in the intake manifold. A dirty air filter is a warning sign that the bike was poorly maintained. You certainly wouldn’t want to buy a dirt bike from someone who didn’t bother to clean the air filter.

However, even if the air filter is clean, it is a good idea to buy a new one. There are certain items you should replace in a secondhand dirt bike regardless of their condition, and the air filter is one of them. You can check out some great value aftermarket options here.

Remove the seat and inspect to see if the air filter and airbox are clean.

4. Engine oil and leaks

Look for the presence of oil leaks, particularly at the bottom of the engine cases and around the front fork seals & rear shock. You can also ask the seller about their maintenance practices. How often did they maintain the bike? How often did they change the oil?

You can also pull out the dipstick (if it has one), and look at the colour of the oil. Alternatively check the inspection window. If it is milky a waterpump seal could be gone. If it is dirty and thick looking it is likely the oil has not been changed for a long time. Also look for any shiny particles in the oil. This indicates the presence of metal and excessive wear. The particles could indicate that a bearing, transmission gear, or another component is on the way out.

If the oil level is clean and good to go, it’s still a smart move to change the oil and filter before riding it, so you know that everything is fresh. Firestorm Motorcycles offers stocks of OEM quality oil filters that won’t break the bank.

Check the oil colour & level.

5. Chains and sprockets

A good quality motorcycle chain can last a long time if the previous owner has taken good care of it. You should inspect for any kinks in the chain and how far it is on the adjuster. If there’s no room left for adjustment, this means that the chain has been fully stretched and you will likely need to replace it.

As for the sprockets, they commonly wear together with the chain. Hooked shaped teeth sprockets mean that they have been severely worn out and are soon about to break. You should also look for any chunks missing in the teeth.

Sooner or later, you’re going to have to replace the chain and sprockets of your dirt bike. Firestorm Motorcycles offers a complete set of chains and sprockets that are OEM quality at a more affordable price.

Check for signs of wear and tear with the chain and sprockets.

6. Clutch and brake levers

Clutch and brake levers are some of the easiest to bend and break on a dirt bike. Also check the rear brake pedal and the shift lever if they’re in good condition. The shifter should be on tight, and a sloppy one often means that the splines are likely worn out and need replacing.

Ensuring that the brake pads are not worn on your dirt bike is more than crucial for your safety, and the good news is they are inexpensive and easy to replace. Firestorm Motorcycles carries a great range of replacement brake pads and levers for prices that are affordable.

7. Exhaust

Look for any damage, in particular for any dents or creases at the head of the pipe. Of course, if there is any damage, you’re going to want to get it repaired or have a new exhaust installed. Your dirt bike won’t perform at its expected power with a crushed pipe.

8. Engine noises

Now that you’re done with the visual inspection, also have a listen to the engine. You can do this by starting the engine and letting it idle for a while. Listen for any rattling or ticking sounds. A ticking noise on a four-stroke engine often indicates that the timing chain or tensioner are worn out. And if you hear a rattle that gets noticeably quieter after the engine warms up, it may be piston rattle — which will require an engine rebuild. All these issues normally appear when the engine has high hours on it or has not had proper maintenance.

We’ve prepared a checklist for you, which you can save on your phone and refer to when you go for an inspection.

Conclusion

Now that you have an idea of the things that you have to look at before purchasing a used dirt bike, we understand that it can be a little overwhelming. The takeaway from all of this is that you have to take your time looking and listening at the dirt bike. If you still think it’s too overwhelming, you can always take a friend who has the knowledge or experience with you while shopping.

After your purchase, you can replace the worn parts of your dirt bike. After all, the best dirt bike is built, not bought. The team at Firestorm Motorcycles are always happy to assist you with any parts enquiries for your new ride.