I always test her oil with my dipstick and put her through the paces before I get serious. Gotta make sure the tolerances are nice and tight and everything is properly lubed👌🏻
I'ts about the same as buying a car, the moment you sign that contract it's all downhill from there buddy, not saying you wont have a course of fun moments but maintanence and upkeep rise exponentially.
More like Seller: lists at $3500 Buyer: shows up looks at bike gets it started and runs through the gears a couple times checks the handlebars shocks the works Seller: (right away after we check it out) my bottom dollar is $3000 Buyer: okay write $2000 on the bill of sale and we'll do $3000 cash *Sellers older brother comes out* Seller: yeah then we'll do $3100 Buyer: thought you said bottom dollar was $3000 but okay then forget it write 3k on bill of sale and we'll give 3k cash and deal with taxes We then proceeded to step away make a phone call and conversation continues with several 2+ minute long periods of silence and the occasional "I've got four other guys interested and I'll let you pay bottom dollar if they don't buy it we end up saying that it wasn't great for the seller to go back on his word like that but did $3100 just to get over it
Brought a ktm 450 exe 2013 4 stroke from some i know took his word on it being ok dumb move rode it once before buying paid to much cost me to replace most of everything fork seals suspension wheel berings chain sprokets engine is smokey thats a 3k fix ! Price u pay for helping someone out you know ouch ! Forgiveness dosnt come cheap sad face!
@@harrisonclark3799 Before Driving To Look At Bike -Make sure seller has clean title in hand -Ask if price is negotiable -Question seller on condition, history of bike, type of riding -Gauge whether seller can be trusted, if anything is sketchy or out of place you might want to look for another bike -Research price on similar bikes in area -Do a google search on common problems with that particular model -Bring a buddy and tools to remove seat & skid plate -Bring compression tester, tie down straps & ramp
First Checks -Feel side of engine to see if seller started bike beforehand -Test compression with the compression tester or by slowly kicking bike over -Make note of how easy bike fires up and if it takes a while to warm up
Test Riding Bike -Go through the gears, make sure they click in smoothly -Test brakes, look for good pressure and if there's any pulsating in the lever or pedal -Put bike in a higher gear and give it full throttle to check for clutch slipping -Rip through the gears hard, making note of how the bike runs under load and throughout the entire RPM range -On four strokes, let the bike decelerate slowly and listen for popping or backfiring
Inspecting Bike -Pull seat off and look for air filter cleanliness, and even take it a step further by pulling filter off to check in intake boot for dirt -Check oil and coolant levels -Inspect oil color, making note if there's signs of coolant or fuel -Ask seller how often oil and air filter were kept up on -Pull up on rear of bike to look for shock linkage bearing movement -Spin wheels and listen for grinding or squeaking noises -Move wheel side to side, examining if there's sloppiness in bearings -Check for smoothness when turning bars side to side -Grab front brake and rock bike back and forth to inspect how tight the steering stem bearings are -Run finger from mounting surface to braking surface on brake rotors, making note if there's a lip there -Check out the thickness of brake pads -Look for bent brake rotor when spinning wheel -Inspect wheels for bent/broken/missing spokes and cracks or bends in rim -Check sprockets for bent or worn teeth -Examine drive chain side to side play as well as up and down movement on sprocket -Take a peek at the wear on chain sliders and chain guide, especially on underside of swingarm pivot -Lay bike on it's side with handlebar on a stand to look for oil/coolant leaks, damage to bottom side of the frame, swingarm, linkage, and forks -Compress shock and forks and examine shock shaft and fork tubes for signs of oil -Check over radiators for leaks, bends, or repairs -Look at bike from rear for signs of a bent or twisted sub frame
Negotiating -Bring cash, show that you're serious -Be respectful, insulting comments about bike or owner will not get you anywhere -Check over title before making offer -Bring up any major issues with bike when discussing price -Stick to your budget and don't be afraid to walk away from bike if there's glaring issues or situation seems sketchy -Make a decision based on facts, not emotion. Ending up with a lemon of a bike just because you wanted to ride that weekend is usually a big mistake.
Purchasing -Only buy if the seller has title in hand and can sign it on the spot -Get bill of sale with date, price, VIN, and seller signature -Ask if seller can include any stock parts, riding gear, ramp/tie straps, etc Thats all thats in the email
Well I mean that's common sense lol if you're in a wide open field it's whatever, but yeah, don't just go full throttle and go ripping on a main road without checking the brakes 🙄
Used a lot of these tips when i looked at a 06 yfz 450 last night. Got there motor was hot, bike died when idling too long, died when it was given full throttle, carb bolts were stripped, had gasket fragments over hanging off the head. So thank you for the tips. Dude wouldn't go lower than 4200 and I told him see ya later lol
Easiest way to not get screwed on someone elses junk is buy new. The only way to save a bunch of money on a used bike is when the seller knows he/she has a piece of shit, and is very willing to come way down in price. I will do without a bike before I buy used again.
Thanks so much for this! I've been out of the dirt bike world for years and I was fortunate enough to have enjoyed either very well cared for, used bikes, from an honest, known seller or a shop, selling a barely broken in ride at a discount. I was lucky! You covered all the bases mechanically, but the most important piece of advice that I'm taking from this is: don't let emotion derail the purchase and bring a buddy!
Me: tell myself all these things before going to look at the bike. Get there... forget 99% But... the positive outcome was finding your channel afterwards, and using your wicked rebuild vids to help with the overhaul. Thanks man, no regrets!
Great checklist , I always check underneath the bike for any cracks in the engine case too...ive had a few where the cases were cracked by the oil plug.
great video, just a tip i got told when buying a bike , have a look at the owners house ,car ect if they arnt taken care of its probably a good indication the bike may not have been as well
Shawn Adkins actually not really I went to look at a crf250 and there house wasn’t pressure washed and there car was beat up and I tested the bike brakes didn’t work that well and had a hard time using the kickstart like I kicked like a good solid 10 times or so
I’m gonna go on the side of that’s some shit advice. I have friends who don’t give two shits about their house. Their cars and bikes are in pristine condition because they spend most of their time on the bike or in the vehicles. Rarely can you even find them at home
The list was awesome. So easy to get lost in the excitement of buying a new bike and forget things. Had the list on my phone and helped me feel really confident I checked everything and found a few opportunities so got a great deal. Appreciate you doing this!
On 4 strokes popping or back firing can also mean it's running too lean, like if they changed the exhuast to an aftermarket one and removed the air box lid it will pop and backfire if they didn't change out the jets for bigger ones. If it starts up easy and run good and pops and back fires it usually means it's jetted wrong. If a 4 stroke is really hard to start then the valves are most likely out of adjustment.
John I recently bought a 2006 ktm 450. Backfires heaps when I back off throttle. Has aftermarket pipe. I’ve ridden about 5 hours total now including single trail. Bike seems solid. Could I just leave the backfiring? Or will it do long lasting damage?
@@lengerer depends how hard you ride it. If you race motocross or run a lot of wide open throttle it can be hard the piston and valves with excess heat aswell as the spark plug which will be white from being lean.
A week ago i went to see a kx250 for a cheap price the guy said it had low compression and that the piston had a lot of hours on it so i thought it just needed a piston replacement. When i went to check the bike out it had no compression at all and there was a hole underneath the engine that had been filled up. Boi am i happy i didn't buy that piece of junk
There’s quite an easy to way to check the compression without a tester and also without the kick as can sometimes give false results. While the bike is running, place your hand over the back of the exhaust. The bike should sound a bit different but if it manages to continue to run for a bit it means the compression is good. If the machine stalls, then the compression likely isn’t good.
Dude, your vid helped me a lot! I just bought my first bike yesterday, a used Honda CRF150L from a neighbor and did the entire inspection drill on it. I thankfully didn't found any major issues.
Cameron, solid advice and a well made video. Hard to think that I can add anything to it, but if I may share something that burned me a few weeks ago on a used bike buy here (should it helps anyone else): Check the fork alignment I showed up, looked at the bike (which was a smaller displacement model of my first motorcycle - so I was all nostalgic and not thinking straight), saw what was there for parts/spares/manual, the condition, and the price seemed very good. We shook hands, gave him the cash, and he gave me the title - done. Went to load the bike into the wheel chock in the back of my pick up and saw that the handle bars, forks/triples, etc. were all NOT aligned in one straight line in space. They guy was like, "Yeah, I told you first thing that I wrecked it." Actually, you did *not* say that man. No big deal, because I wanted to upgrade to a better set of forks and disc brakes from another bike anyhow, but missing that detail meant a lot of negotiating room was lost on my part. You live, you learn. Great video!
Excellent video. I used your checklist on a bike today. I dodged a bullet for sure. The 4 stroke popping/backfire was my red flag and I walked out on the deal
I haven’t ridden a bike in at least 8 years so I feel like I’d be learning to ride while testing gears. I only ever rode a kids bike, so this is kinda exiting and nerve racking.
Great advice on buying a bike. I took my backyard motorcycle mechanic to inspect the 2012 xr450f I was going to buy. He did non of the things you said. I still bought it b/c seller went from 3200 to 2700dllrs and it really looked in great condition almost new. It has tons of power and seller looked like he kept up with the maintenance. He had qts. of oil, filters, lube, and other accessories he used for the bike in his garage and he gave them to me, plus he also gave me the bike stand which runs about another 50 to 100 bucks. Thanks for the video.
I got my first bike this year 96 yz250 it was clapped i was just to excited and bought it i fixing everything that was wrong and sold it for more than i paid and had into it and turn around the same day and got a 99 cr250 for less then what i sold the yz for and it was in better condition so i came out alright and i wanted a cr from the start.. anyways love the vids man keep em coming
Good Day Cameron , if you would like the formula for the bikes compression pressure , it's "Compression Ratio" times to-days "Atmospheric pressure" . Example , an engine with 9.5 : 1 compression would be [ 9.5 x 14.7 = 139.65 PSI ] of compression pressure .
This is great info for every current bike owner, to go over their bikes annually or quarterly. I’m going to print the list and use it on all my bikes. Thank you!
This is a great video .I maintain my bikes but I can't believe how many bikes I've sold that the buyer doesn't check anything. Take your own race stand when buying a new (used) bike in case your seller doesn't have one. I also check chain tension adjuster, it's surprising how many used bikes adjusters are jacked up.
Back in 1988 I bought a one year old CR250 CHEAP! Like 1/2 od new! BUT the bike had been raced at expert level for a year and NOT maintained! It ran strong and shifted well but that was only a testament to Honda engineering.....the bike was thrashed LOL ....I rebuilt the top end myself and rode it for a year with no real issues and sold it for more than I paid.....but any good inspection of the motorcycle revealed it had been ridden HARD by an expert racer....the biggest tell was the frame rails under the engine area...these were caved in in several places from "case out" landings big air track jumps...also there was ample pings in fork sliders etc from rocks slamming it,,,,AND the front rim was replaced....lol it is HARD to bend or break quality rims that come on Honda CRs....ofter tells are the finishes worn totally through on frame and motor cases where boots rub etc.....IF you really want a nice a bike you want to find one a NOVICE bought and hardly rode.....it will be barely broke in if you are lucky and if a couple model years old? That seller might price his bike according to what he sees on the market.....the deeply discounted thrashed ones! After that my best advice is to get your cash together and READY....watch the market and the SECOND a great bike comes on the market haul ass there with your cash !
im shopping for my first dirt bike, used, and this video was extremely helpful. Very well done, thank you for taking the time to make it. For a noob like me, i learned a lot on what to look for in a used bike. You got my sub.
I’m so glad you made this video. I feel more confident on buying a used bike. I know you don’t have four wheelers, but could you make a video like this for a four wheeler? Great Video!
This is what I do whenever I am buying a bicycle I check if it brakes fine ,the gears work , the pedals,the steering, the spokes, the only difference is the price range 😭 big up from Kenya 🇰🇪🇰🇪
I've rode motorcycles for a few years but am looking to get a dirt bike soon. I have to say thank you. Your reviews and videos, in general, are very helpful!
Wheel bearings, brake pads, chain, sprockets, tires, chassis bearings are all normal wear items. Most mx bike owners have no idea how to properly maintain a race bike and it is common to see issues caused by lack of correct service. This does not make for a bad bike necessarily but there will be work to do and additional money to spend. The engine is key, especially on a 4 stroke. My rule of thumb is to buy as close to factory stock as possible and to determine overall condition while taking into account the inevitable flaws which are bound to be present.
A note for 2002 to 2007 CR250 buyers , Honda has discontinued the CDI , Stator and Exhaust valve servo . I haven't been able to find aftermarket for these parts . If anyone is aware of aftermarket electrical parts for these machines please let me know .
Thank you so much for the video I am new to the 4 stroke world lol anyway I went to look at a 2010 crf250r absolutely beautiful bike look like new everything was amazing, got there and ran through wut tou said to do and found that the back wheel had a bunch of lose spokes, no break pads on rear at all, and the lift the swingarm test the bearings had mad slop and front fork seals where almost shot, although it ran perfectly I walked away and will continue to shop for my first 4 stroke .... thank for the video
Thousands $ and peace of mind. Fyi One way you can pay it fwd is set up/drop back to his channel to buy items via Cam's Amazon link. No cost to us- just a way for us to give him a a hand that adds up. No affiliation with the channel here
listen carefully to the engine while idleing..especially on two stroke bikes...if you hear a little tick (tick tickle tick tick) like his one..it might be the lower connetction rod bearing...(..could be the video too)... ;) popping and "backfireing"(only sounds like it) can also happen when the exhaust system isnt pressure tight anymore... then fresh air can get into it and unburned fuel will ignite..(poof)...btw..there is no engine that burnes 100% of the fuel/air mixture.. greetings from germany (and sorry for the bad english)
I don't know what you mean, all two stroke bikes tick like that at low rpms. The thing people should really listen for is piston slap, which is a result of worn piston rings / topend rebuild.
...@nitro.. then pls explain to me where that tick comes from... 2stroke engines have only 4 moving main parts (exept gearbox) reeds, Piston, cankshaft and the connection rod (pleul in german] thx in advance.. (efi engines dont count)
Bitplanebrother if you have ever had a high performance 2 stroke especially a small bore you would know that sound. His motor sounds really good. It revs nice and is clearly healthy. I don't know the science behind the noise but I watch a lot of 2 strokes and have rebuilt a few and they all make that noise. It's not like a 4 stroke where ticking could be valves or camchain. Just listen to a few 125's idle and you will find out they all do it.
..sorry...just been riding 2strokes for nearly 20 years..50ccm - 500ccm...in the old days early ignition timing resulted in a little tick..but since there is elektronic ignition.. have a good day son. ;)
I got a steal on a 98 yz250 it didn’t run so I took a risk he said it needed a new cdi box and it did but It also needed a stator but I got it running a few months ago this thing is a beast it’s amazing why can’t all sellers be honest like this man
Hey man been really learning a lot from your videos, wish I would have seen this one sooner. I bought a 2010 yz250f and it’s all fine besides backfire on deceleration. Is it the valves, the main jet or the needle needs to be adjusted ? Thanks !
Once bought a 1993 KDX 250 for $1000 it was a great deal fresh top end bought it from a mid-40s priest I could see the new gaskets had good compression rode it just like this tested everything I got it home warmed her up and took her I the old train tracks (they removed rails and wood so wide open trail) in 5th at about 120km\h it seized locking up I grabbed the clutch and walked her home and tore it apart to find a rag in a coolant hose most likely from rebuild point is after you ride make sure everything hot especially the rad
Awesome video! I will definitely keep this in mind when buying my first bike. I'm on a pretty small budget so I think all of this will definitely come in handy.
Big thanks bro! Really want to get into dirt bikes but unfortunately have no previous riding experience. This makes me feel 100x more comfortable thing to buy a used bike.
think about it..that would make every time you close the throttle (even with disengaged clutch) on your 2 stroke..you wear out your engine...wouldnt it make a pretty shitty engine?? in karting the clutch is only used to start rolling...and in enduro to get down a hill (or an obstacle) without your backwheel sliding...and even in MX many (and im one of them) dont even use the cluch for shifting..*lol*
One thing I've learned to look for is the sprockets or gears the chain rides on. Look for any bent or worn down teeth as the bike could ride and shift fine with bent teeth but that's just another thing that will have to be replaced "sooner rather than later" Great video though! Going to buy my first dirt bike tomorrow. Pretty excited. And I 100% agree with bringing someone because emotions can get in the way of making a sound judgment call!!
my first bike, an 03 xr100, I didn't have that much experience with engines yet and just test drove it. luckily it was in prime condition. it was listed for 1300 Canadian and my dad said will you do 900? and he didn't even argue it he just right away agreed. wish we went even lower. then my Cr 80 I was a lot better at inspecting it but I didn't have .y hopes too high as it wasn't listed for that much. I was surprised to its quality so I bought it and soon realized it kept cutting out. I figured out it was electrical so I started replace stuff. with the little experience I had at the time I had replaced nearly everything with no fix until I found a CDI box for only 50 dollars on eBay which fixed it and I was happy with that then like a week later it started cutting out the same way but more aggressively. I thought it was the stator this time so I pulled off the flywheel and found that the case was completely cracked in between the flywheel and transmission that had been JB welding was broke. apart again. I was bummed so I decided I'd just weld it back again but this time with some carbon fiber strips. so far it has held up another 20 hours on the bike so after that frustrating time and not being able to ride it's all back together and is just so much fun
I bought a 2005 crf250r last year off a guy who seemed really nice and knowledgeable. I been messing with bikes years and knew what to look for. I checked the bike fully and rode it down the road and I got it for £1000 (he was selling for £1300). The next day I did 2 laps and the bottom end blew up lol!! I sold it the next day broken for £800. Not too bad. I now have a 98 cr250 😎
This was helpful. I've never pulled the air filter off a bike before buying or laid it over to inspect the underside of the engine and I've had really good luck with the bikes I've bought but will definitely check those on my next buys! Typically I'll almost always rebuild the top end on my two strokes after I buy one and while doing that, go over everything else on the bike as I tear it down. One overlooked thing I find often is worn reeds! They almost always need replacing!
Great video, thanks for posting. Detailed, clear, good camera work, etc. Next Video: How to convince one's wife that buying a bike for the kiddo (9 years old) is not a bad thing. Joys of learning to ride vs dangers.
Nathan C People lie, if your buying used your obviously on a budget. That being said you probably don’t have the spare money if something in the motor goes wrong, as 4 stroke can be extremely expensive to fix if blown.
Aii so pull the drain plug and check the magnetic shank if it has metal filings that's normal wear but if it has shelling you might see chunks or pieces of a hammered gear . that could mean expensive trany repairs also check the air intake boot as well as the carb manifold intake
Do you buy your bikes new or used?
Cameron Niemela used of course too broke for a new one
I love getting a used bike and fixing it up and making it better than it was when I got it!
I buy new but used bikes.. for example, I got a used 2017 yz 85 for $2600
Used just bought it 2 hrs ago
Used
I should have been this thorough when getting married.
Yeah me to I went as far as the compression test but she put me threw the gears.
I always test her oil with my dipstick and put her through the paces before I get serious. Gotta make sure the tolerances are nice and tight and everything is properly lubed👌🏻
I'ts about the same as buying a car, the moment you sign that contract it's all downhill from there buddy, not saying you wont have a course of fun moments but maintanence and upkeep rise exponentially.
A Ferrari is really sexy but ends up leaving you for a tow truck driver.
Lmao
Heres me buying a bike: does it start? yes. Cool, take my money.
Did that 2 weeks ago the bike blew up a couple of days ago 😂 but he gave me the piston and o rings I just need to buy gaskets
life on two lol😂
This made me laugh- good lad 👍👍👍
life on two Hahahahshaja
12oclock Quan just happens to me aswell rip bottem end
Seller : asking 3500 for it
Buyer : bearing has some play to it I’ll give you 500 for it cash today .
jay pulido Lol
Geeeez.
Needs new carb 1000 down from 2
Geezus hell !!
More like
Seller: lists at $3500
Buyer: shows up looks at bike gets it started and runs through the gears a couple times checks the handlebars shocks the works
Seller: (right away after we check it out) my bottom dollar is $3000
Buyer: okay write $2000 on the bill of sale and we'll do $3000 cash
*Sellers older brother comes out*
Seller: yeah then we'll do $3100
Buyer: thought you said bottom dollar was $3000 but okay then forget it write 3k on bill of sale and we'll give 3k cash and deal with taxes
We then proceeded to step away make a phone call and conversation continues with several 2+ minute long periods of silence and the occasional "I've got four other guys interested and I'll let you pay bottom dollar if they don't buy it we end up saying that it wasn't great for the seller to go back on his word like that but did $3100 just to get over it
Me watching after getting screwed
Gearhead 0225 how were you screwed?
Insain Person from behind
Fr
Brought a ktm 450 exe 2013 4 stroke from some i know took his word on it being ok dumb move rode it once before buying paid to much cost me to replace most of everything fork seals suspension wheel berings chain sprokets engine is smokey thats a 3k fix ! Price u pay for helping someone out you know ouch ! Forgiveness dosnt come cheap sad face!
🤣🤣🤣👍
I printed the list., took it with me, did the inspection and was able to negotiate $600 less than asking. Thank you.
can you send a link to the list? I'd rather not submit my email
@@harrisonclark3799 Before Driving To Look At Bike
-Make sure seller has clean title in hand
-Ask if price is negotiable
-Question seller on condition, history of bike, type of riding
-Gauge whether seller can be trusted, if anything is sketchy or out of place you might want to look for another bike
-Research price on similar bikes in area
-Do a google search on common problems with that particular model
-Bring a buddy and tools to remove seat & skid plate
-Bring compression tester, tie down straps & ramp
First Checks
-Feel side of engine to see if seller started bike beforehand
-Test compression with the compression tester or by slowly kicking bike over
-Make note of how easy bike fires up and if it takes a while to warm up
Test Riding Bike
-Go through the gears, make sure they click in smoothly
-Test brakes, look for good pressure and if there's any pulsating in the lever or pedal
-Put bike in a higher gear and give it full throttle to check for clutch slipping
-Rip through the gears hard, making note of how the bike runs under load and throughout the entire RPM range
-On four strokes, let the bike decelerate slowly and listen for popping or backfiring
Inspecting Bike
-Pull seat off and look for air filter cleanliness, and even take it a step further by pulling filter off to check in intake boot for dirt
-Check oil and coolant levels
-Inspect oil color, making note if there's signs of coolant or fuel
-Ask seller how often oil and air filter were kept up on
-Pull up on rear of bike to look for shock linkage bearing movement
-Spin wheels and listen for grinding or squeaking noises
-Move wheel side to side, examining if there's sloppiness in bearings
-Check for smoothness when turning bars side to side
-Grab front brake and rock bike back and forth to inspect how tight the steering stem bearings are
-Run finger from mounting surface to braking surface on brake rotors, making note if there's a lip there
-Check out the thickness of brake pads
-Look for bent brake rotor when spinning wheel
-Inspect wheels for bent/broken/missing spokes and cracks or bends in rim
-Check sprockets for bent or worn teeth
-Examine drive chain side to side play as well as up and down movement on sprocket
-Take a peek at the wear on chain sliders and chain guide, especially on underside of swingarm pivot
-Lay bike on it's side with handlebar on a stand to look for oil/coolant leaks, damage to bottom side of the frame, swingarm, linkage, and forks
-Compress shock and forks and examine shock shaft and fork tubes for signs of oil
-Check over radiators for leaks, bends, or repairs
-Look at bike from rear for signs of a bent or twisted sub frame
Negotiating
-Bring cash, show that you're serious
-Be respectful, insulting comments about bike or owner will not get you anywhere
-Check over title before making offer
-Bring up any major issues with bike when discussing price
-Stick to your budget and don't be afraid to walk away from bike if there's glaring issues or situation seems sketchy
-Make a decision based on facts, not emotion. Ending up with a lemon of a bike just because you wanted to ride that weekend is usually a big mistake.
Purchasing
-Only buy if the seller has title in hand and can sign it on the spot
-Get bill of sale with date, price, VIN, and seller signature
-Ask if seller can include any stock parts, riding gear, ramp/tie straps, etc
Thats all thats in the email
@@Iceyyyyylol wow that’s a pretty solid reply
@@Iceyyyyylolyour a goat, going to look at a 2022 kx 250f for 3750 and we will see how it goes
@@jacobnoujaim7436 good luck bro
At the price point I can afford there is no way I’m not getting screwed 😂
ok gabriel
@Floris van Nederpelt ight
Sounds good Gab
I hear that 😂 legit about to pick up a basket case because it's $300.. fml
@@patrickmeyer9905 I'm pretty sure he meant the opposite, bud
The timing of this video is unreal! Just about to buy a bike! Thank man
Thanks for watching!
Bolleman whatcha looking for?
Graham Vandermark Bought a 09 ktm SX85! was about € 1100 so decent deal here in the Netherlands.
Bolleman awesome dude! Had much of a chance to ride it?
Bolleman I seen this video a few days after :(
Don’t check the brakes last, check them first so if they don’t work you’ll know no before you run into something.
King HOTCOCO lol
Lol
You can always do engine braking
@@trevornorris2558 not if it’s a 2 stroke
Well I mean that's common sense lol if you're in a wide open field it's whatever, but yeah, don't just go full throttle and go ripping on a main road without checking the brakes 🙄
Used a lot of these tips when i looked at a 06 yfz 450 last night. Got there motor was hot, bike died when idling too long, died when it was given full throttle, carb bolts were stripped, had gasket fragments over hanging off the head. So thank you for the tips. Dude wouldn't go lower than 4200 and I told him see ya later lol
Hugh I thought your bike was 100% perfect. Glad it’s only 99% now I don’t feel so bad about mine
Mr. nothing is perfect and nothing is normal
I dont even have one your lucky
I dont even have one your lucky
CRAZYkatana 12 what about his lucky?
CRAZYkatana 12 save up some money my bike hasn’t been running for a couple months cause I had to save up money to fix it
How to avoid getting screwed when buying a used dirt bike.
:Be a mechanic
Easiest part
I am, most bikes I see for sale are junk.
Not necessesary just ride a lot in dif conditions diferent bikes (small ones) gives you too much to learn
Have a mechanic friend who'll come with.
Easiest way to not get screwed on someone elses junk is buy new. The only way to save a bunch of money on a used bike is when the seller knows he/she has a piece of shit, and is very willing to come way down in price. I will do without a bike before I buy used again.
Could you just come with me to the sale 😂
Nox Aco LoL
Coming back to this buying my 3rd bike 😂😂😂😂😂 no way I see my own comment from 3 years
@@007Nox thats insane haha
this guy is honestly the most kind-hearted person ever, thanks for making the dirt bike community better
Thanks so much for this! I've been out of the dirt bike world for years and I was fortunate enough to have enjoyed either very well cared for, used bikes, from an honest, known seller or a shop, selling a barely broken in ride at a discount. I was lucky! You covered all the bases mechanically, but the most important piece of advice that I'm taking from this is: don't let emotion derail the purchase and bring a buddy!
Me: tell myself all these things before going to look at the bike.
Get there... forget 99%
But... the positive outcome was finding your channel afterwards, and using your wicked rebuild vids to help with the overhaul.
Thanks man, no regrets!
lmaooo
😂😂😂😂😂 get there forget 🤣🤣🤣🤣 hell yeah..I needed that
Great checklist , I always check underneath the bike for any cracks in the engine case too...ive had a few where the cases were cracked by the oil plug.
2vintage hello 2 vintage :)
Sup
I had that problem on my first dirtbike, i repaired it myself but it wasnt cheap..
2vintage I made this exact mistake buying my ktm 150 last year, never thought to check but always do now.
2vintage omg it's 2vintage
The most important thing is to check the VIN to see if it's still there.
Firedogg301 😂
great video, just a tip i got told when buying a bike , have a look at the owners house ,car ect if they arnt taken care of its probably a good indication the bike may not have been as well
Micheal Rex or it might be an indication there riding there DB more then that drive there car or clean there home, 😂
That's the shittiest advice ever
Shawn Adkins actually not really I went to look at a crf250 and there house wasn’t pressure washed and there car was beat up and I tested the bike brakes didn’t work that well and had a hard time using the kickstart like I kicked like a good solid 10 times or so
I’m gonna go on the side of that’s some shit advice. I have friends who don’t give two shits about their house. Their cars and bikes are in pristine condition because they spend most of their time on the bike or in the vehicles. Rarely can you even find them at home
I usually take a good look at their wife as well just to see if he takes care of her
Step one: Do not buy from a guy that reminds you of Ronnie Mac.
That's pretty much it.
Well there'd be a 69% chance of it being 6 or 9 thousand dollars overpriced for a clapped out strangled eagle lol. I love Ronnie Mac!! Lol.
69% of the time it runs every time.
The list was awesome. So easy to get lost in the excitement of buying a new bike and forget things. Had the list on my phone and helped me feel really confident I checked everything and found a few opportunities so got a great deal. Appreciate you doing this!
Your cr sounding so crisp!
ei oo väljä
adding to check for striped or rounded bolts, missing or broken bolts, and cables/housings.
Anyone buying a used bike should watch this video and make a check list. Another awesome video Cameron! 👍
Thank You!
On 4 strokes popping or back firing can also mean it's running too lean, like if they changed the exhuast to an aftermarket one and removed the air box lid it will pop and backfire if they didn't change out the jets for bigger ones. If it starts up easy and run good and pops and back fires it usually means it's jetted wrong. If a 4 stroke is really hard to start then the valves are most likely out of adjustment.
John I recently bought a 2006 ktm 450. Backfires heaps when I back off throttle. Has aftermarket pipe. I’ve ridden about 5 hours total now including single trail. Bike seems solid.
Could I just leave the backfiring? Or will it do long lasting damage?
@@lengerer depends how hard you ride it. If you race motocross or run a lot of wide open throttle it can be hard the piston and valves with excess heat aswell as the spark plug which will be white from being lean.
Colton Carpenter ok, thanks mate! I ride pretty slow. Enduro type stuff. Some single trail and 4wd tracks. Sounds like it should be ok 👌
poping exhaust can also be from air entering the pipe from the flange or connection between front pipe to muff
Especially a uncorked xr650r
A week ago i went to see a kx250 for a cheap price the guy said it had low compression and that the piston had a lot of hours on it so i thought it just needed a piston replacement. When i went to check the bike out it had no compression at all and there was a hole underneath the engine that had been filled up. Boi am i happy i didn't buy that piece of junk
Holy shit
Bout to buy a kx250 tomorrow wish me luck
Aidan Crosbie goodluck homie. hope to god i get the kx125 i’ve been looking at tomorrow
I got a kx 250 yesterday.
Got a kx 250 for 1500 sold it for 2400 in 5 hrs of having it
I would love to see a vintage cr500 build in the future! I looked all a round for one but I never can find a build as detailed as yours!
in every video you can see that he loves what he is doing...hes awsome!
Stevie Munier Yah great bikes i had a 89 cr 500 that was scary mean
That's a 250
@@wheresjake5663 125*
Watching this as I’m texting a guy about a 2003 cr125 lol
Simon Eighmey nope lol it was in pretty rough condition for the price.
How much was it priced for
07 CBR1000RR Probably $3,500
Hunter are you insane?
Denis Guba like what the hell 😂😂
There’s quite an easy to way to check the compression without a tester and also without the kick as can sometimes give false results.
While the bike is running, place your hand over the back of the exhaust. The bike should sound a bit different but if it manages to continue to run for a bit it means the compression is good. If the machine stalls, then the compression likely isn’t good.
Like fully cover the exhaust or just put your hand kind of over it
@@owenheilman7721 i think he means to cover the exhaust hole with your hand
Dude, your vid helped me a lot! I just bought my first bike yesterday, a used Honda CRF150L from a neighbor and did the entire inspection drill on it. I thankfully didn't found any major issues.
Baha I should have watched this a few days earlier, I just got screwed
Elaborate
Cameron, solid advice and a well made video.
Hard to think that I can add anything to it, but if I may share something that burned me a few weeks ago on a used bike buy here (should it helps anyone else): Check the fork alignment
I showed up, looked at the bike (which was a smaller displacement model of my first motorcycle - so I was all nostalgic and not thinking straight), saw what was there for parts/spares/manual, the condition, and the price seemed very good. We shook hands, gave him the cash, and he gave me the title - done.
Went to load the bike into the wheel chock in the back of my pick up and saw that the handle bars, forks/triples, etc. were all NOT aligned in one straight line in space. They guy was like, "Yeah, I told you first thing that I wrecked it." Actually, you did *not* say that man. No big deal, because I wanted to upgrade to a better set of forks and disc brakes from another bike anyhow, but missing that detail meant a lot of negotiating room was lost on my part. You live, you learn.
Great video!
Excellent video. I used your checklist on a bike today. I dodged a bullet for sure. The 4 stroke popping/backfire was my red flag and I walked out on the deal
Buying a dirt bike this weekend.
This video was very helpful, thank you.
- L XXXtentacion teeth
Dude you still have it
You: takes apart dirt bike to see if it runs
Me: OMG IS THAT A DIRT BIKE
I haven’t ridden a bike in at least 8 years so I feel like I’d be learning to ride while testing gears. I only ever rode a kids bike, so this is kinda exiting and nerve racking.
Great advice on buying a bike. I took my backyard motorcycle mechanic to inspect the 2012 xr450f I was going to buy. He did non of the things you said. I still bought it b/c seller went from 3200 to 2700dllrs and it really looked in great condition almost new. It has tons of power and seller looked like he kept up with the maintenance. He had qts. of oil, filters, lube, and other accessories he used for the bike in his garage and he gave them to me, plus he also gave me the bike stand which runs about another 50 to 100 bucks. Thanks for the video.
I got my first bike this year 96 yz250 it was clapped i was just to excited and bought it i fixing everything that was wrong and sold it for more than i paid and had into it and turn around the same day and got a 99 cr250 for less then what i sold the yz for and it was in better condition so i came out alright and i wanted a cr from the start.. anyways love the vids man keep em coming
Good Day Cameron , if you would like the formula for the bikes compression pressure , it's "Compression Ratio" times to-days "Atmospheric pressure" . Example , an engine with 9.5 : 1 compression would be [ 9.5 x 14.7 = 139.65 PSI ] of compression pressure .
i agree. you should DEFINITELY DO A CR500 BUILD!!!!! love your vids man...
Thanks dude!
After two years he is still hearting comments that’s amazing
This is great info for every current bike owner, to go over their bikes annually or quarterly. I’m going to print the list and use it on all my bikes. Thank you!
This is a great video .I maintain my bikes but I can't believe how many bikes I've sold that the buyer doesn't check anything. Take your own race stand when buying a new (used) bike in case your seller doesn't have one. I also check chain tension adjuster, it's surprising how many used bikes adjusters are jacked up.
Back in 1988 I bought a one year old CR250 CHEAP! Like 1/2 od new! BUT the bike had been raced at expert level for a year and NOT maintained! It ran strong and shifted well but that was only a testament to Honda engineering.....the bike was thrashed LOL ....I rebuilt the top end myself and rode it for a year with no real issues and sold it for more than I paid.....but any good inspection of the motorcycle revealed it had been ridden HARD by an expert racer....the biggest tell was the frame rails under the engine area...these were caved in in several places from "case out" landings big air track jumps...also there was ample pings in fork sliders etc from rocks slamming it,,,,AND the front rim was replaced....lol it is HARD to bend or break quality rims that come on Honda CRs....ofter tells are the finishes worn totally through on frame and motor cases where boots rub etc.....IF you really want a nice a bike you want to find one a NOVICE bought and hardly rode.....it will be barely broke in if you are lucky and if a couple model years old? That seller might price his bike according to what he sees on the market.....the deeply discounted thrashed ones! After that my best advice is to get your cash together and READY....watch the market and the SECOND a great bike comes on the market haul ass there with your cash !
You couldn't be screwed with your skills!
im shopping for my first dirt bike, used, and this video was extremely helpful. Very well done, thank you for taking the time to make it. For a noob like me, i learned a lot on what to look for in a used bike. You got my sub.
I’m so glad you made this video. I feel more confident on buying a used bike. I know you don’t have four wheelers, but could you make a video like this for a four wheeler? Great Video!
Jason YZ250 practically the same
Shit. It's the same concept just 4 wheels on it. Use google and common sense.
Yes The seller will be very honest with you when asking questions about maintenance etc.
This is what I do whenever I am buying a bicycle I check if it brakes fine ,the gears work , the pedals,the steering, the spokes, the only difference is the price range 😭 big up from Kenya 🇰🇪🇰🇪
Seems like the price range is about the same for the nicer used mountain bikes lol
Handy! I was just looking around for a cheap-ish CR to restore. I also (mainly) look at the seller, and their garage and tools.
Saving this video and making a check list! Going to look at my first 2 stroke tomorrow
Thank you so much dude. I’m buying my first bike next week and I don’t know anyone that can help me with it. This will help a lot.
Me: I'm asking $1500
Buyer: I'll give you $500 cash
Me: Sold
John T how you get screwed out the ying yang
Jacob Watters
Not if ain’t worth even $500, lol
I've rode motorcycles for a few years but am looking to get a dirt bike soon. I have to say thank you. Your reviews and videos, in general, are very helpful!
A really good question to ask is “why are you selling this bike” they could at this point explain the conditions and reason
"Upgrade mate"
People lie
Wheel bearings, brake pads, chain, sprockets, tires, chassis bearings are all normal wear items. Most mx bike owners have no idea how to properly maintain a race bike and it is common to see issues caused by lack of correct service. This does not make for a bad bike necessarily but there will be work to do and additional money to spend. The engine is key, especially on a 4 stroke. My rule of thumb is to buy as close to factory stock as possible and to determine overall condition while taking into account the inevitable flaws which are bound to be present.
A note for 2002 to 2007 CR250 buyers , Honda has discontinued the CDI , Stator and Exhaust valve servo .
I haven't been able to find aftermarket for these parts .
If anyone is aware of aftermarket electrical parts for these machines please let me know .
Excellent video. I’m in the market for a new bike, but not super mechanically inclined. Feel SIGNIFICANTLY better about the process now. Thanks!
Thank you so much for the video I am new to the 4 stroke world lol anyway I went to look at a 2010 crf250r absolutely beautiful bike look like new everything was amazing, got there and ran through wut tou said to do and found that the back wheel had a bunch of lose spokes, no break pads on rear at all, and the lift the swingarm test the bearings had mad slop and front fork seals where almost shot, although it ran perfectly I walked away and will continue to shop for my first 4 stroke .... thank for the video
Thousands $ and peace of mind. Fyi One way you can pay it fwd is set up/drop back to his channel to buy items via Cam's Amazon link. No cost to us- just a way for us to give him a a hand that adds up. No affiliation with the channel here
This was a really solid guide.. I forget so many of these things when I go to buy a used bike..
what if you wanna buy a used bike but never rode one before haha? serious question
Prey
Predator
user12345 lol
Crf100
Been there, do your research. Best option is to bring someone along that knows what's he/she is looking at
Got a good tip too, you can also check for the screws to see if they are all OEM, not like shitty screws all over the place.
listen carefully to the engine while idleing..especially on two stroke bikes...if you hear a little tick (tick tickle tick tick) like his one..it might be the lower connetction rod bearing...(..could be the video too)... ;)
popping and "backfireing"(only sounds like it) can also happen when the exhaust system isnt pressure tight anymore... then fresh air can get into it and unburned fuel will ignite..(poof)...btw..there is no engine that burnes 100% of the fuel/air mixture..
greetings from germany
(and sorry for the bad english)
I don't know what you mean, all two stroke bikes tick like that at low rpms. The thing people should really listen for is piston slap, which is a result of worn piston rings / topend rebuild.
...@nitro..
then pls explain to me where that tick comes from...
2stroke engines have only 4 moving main parts (exept gearbox) reeds, Piston, cankshaft and the connection rod (pleul in german]
thx in advance..
(efi engines dont count)
Bitplanebrother if you have ever had a high performance 2 stroke especially a small bore you would know that sound. His motor sounds really good. It revs nice and is clearly healthy. I don't know the science behind the noise but I watch a lot of 2 strokes and have rebuilt a few and they all make that noise. It's not like a 4 stroke where ticking could be valves or camchain. Just listen to a few 125's idle and you will find out they all do it.
..sorry...just been riding 2strokes for nearly 20 years..50ccm - 500ccm...in the old days early ignition timing resulted in a little tick..but since there is elektronic ignition..
have a good day son. ;)
The engine tick is completely normal. Every single two stroke I've owned has it, even new bikes
Im also purchasing my first bike, this video helps a lot! It has armed me with enough knowledge to not get ripped off. Cheers
I wish i watched this earlier because i bought a used yamaha and it has big starting problem.
Good advice. Well put together and straight to the point. Used bike buyers should watch this and incorporate all these tips.
Very helpful thankyou! Luckily I watch this before I brought my 2007 yz450 today got down $600 from $2000 to $1400
I'm about to go pick up a 2007 yz450 tomorrow as well. How did you like your bike?
Congrats :) in a couple more weeks I’ll be able to buy the 2013 yz250 I was dying for!
I got a steal on a 98 yz250 it didn’t run so I took a risk he said it needed a new cdi box and it did but It also needed a stator but I got it running a few months ago this thing is a beast it’s amazing why can’t all sellers be honest like this man
Hey man been really learning a lot from your videos, wish I would have seen this one sooner. I bought a 2010 yz250f and it’s all fine besides backfire on deceleration. Is it the valves, the main jet or the needle needs to be adjusted ?
Thanks !
Ricardo Martinez if it starts fine I would say it’s a tad lean especially if it has an aftermarket muffler
Awesome. I am about to buy a dirt bike and came across your page. Super helpful.
Same
How can u test ride it if its your first bike and cant ride yet. What do u do?
Luke moto 😂
Screw that id try and sell you lessons along with the bike lol
Good info..Knowledge is power when your buying anything,doing your homework before you go to look always helps
Good points - I've found great deals on used enduros in new condition & saved $1,000's . Thanks
for sharing your knowledge.
K. Zeke Swaringen n
Ok
Once bought a 1993 KDX 250 for $1000 it was a great deal fresh top end bought it from a mid-40s priest I could see the new gaskets had good compression rode it just like this tested everything I got it home warmed her up and took her I the old train tracks (they removed rails and wood so wide open trail) in 5th at about 120km\h it seized locking up I grabbed the clutch and walked her home and tore it apart to find a rag in a coolant hose most likely from rebuild point is after you ride make sure everything hot especially the rad
Turn on subtitles and when he revs the bike it says *Music* lol
It isn’t lying though, is it?
@@bigbee4774 not one bit
Awesome video! I will definitely keep this in mind when buying my first bike. I'm on a pretty small budget so I think all of this will definitely come in handy.
Someone’s selling a cbr 450r “no engine “ how much should it be cause they charging $1000
What is a CBR450R?
Big thanks bro! Really want to get into dirt bikes but unfortunately have no previous riding experience. This makes me feel 100x more comfortable thing to buy a used bike.
why are you engine braking your 2-stroke so much
becouse there is no reason not to do it!
Why should you?
ride like you want ... but it wont dmg your engine if done properly..
in 2 stroke karting and enduro riding its totaly normal...
Bitplanebrother its not lol
think about it..that would make every time you close the throttle (even with disengaged clutch) on your 2 stroke..you wear out your engine...wouldnt it make a pretty shitty engine??
in karting the clutch is only used to start rolling...and in enduro to get down a hill (or an obstacle) without your backwheel sliding...and even in MX many (and im one of them) dont even use the cluch for shifting..*lol*
One thing I've learned to look for is the sprockets or gears the chain rides on. Look for any bent or worn down teeth as the bike could ride and shift fine with bent teeth but that's just another thing that will have to be replaced "sooner rather than later"
Great video though! Going to buy my first dirt bike tomorrow. Pretty excited. And I 100% agree with bringing someone because emotions can get in the way of making a sound judgment call!!
Thank alot dude😃 I'll buy a Yamaha DT 125 soon so that helped me 👌
i guess your german Bro...?
klasse moped..aber schwer zu bekommen mittlerweile...nicht vergessen die auslass walze richtig rum zu drehen..;)
Bitplanebrother DT ist das Geilste :)
Piikiidetsi mainittu!
mikael partti Suomi mainittu!
Bitplanebrother Felix heißt er und er will ne DT, na klar isser Deutsch xD
Perfect video for buying a used bike. Literally perfect.
Love that 125😍
as a new rider looking for my first used dirt bike, I appreciate your video. Thanks!
408 likes, 0 dislikes that's awesome. Thanks so much for the free checklist!
Thanks for watching Joseph!
This is super informative and helpful , definitely makes me feel more confident in buying a used bike.
Thanks
I just bought a 2006 CRF250R
my first bike, an 03 xr100, I didn't have that much experience with engines yet and just test drove it. luckily it was in prime condition. it was listed for 1300 Canadian and my dad said will you do 900? and he didn't even argue it he just right away agreed. wish we went even lower. then my Cr 80 I was a lot better at inspecting it but I didn't have .y hopes too high as it wasn't listed for that much. I was surprised to its quality so I bought it and soon realized it kept cutting out. I figured out it was electrical so I started replace stuff. with the little experience I had at the time I had replaced nearly everything with no fix until I found a CDI box for only 50 dollars on eBay which fixed it and I was happy with that then like a week later it started cutting out the same way but more aggressively. I thought it was the stator this time so I pulled off the flywheel and found that the case was completely cracked in between the flywheel and transmission that had been JB welding was broke. apart again. I was bummed so I decided I'd just weld it back again but this time with some carbon fiber strips. so far it has held up another 20 hours on the bike so after that frustrating time and not being able to ride it's all back together and is just so much fun
I bought a 2005 crf250r last year off a guy who seemed really nice and knowledgeable. I been messing with bikes years and knew what to look for. I checked the bike fully and rode it down the road and I got it for £1000 (he was selling for £1300). The next day I did 2 laps and the bottom end blew up lol!! I sold it the next day broken for £800. Not too bad. I now have a 98 cr250 😎
This is awesome! Thanks for putting this comprehensive checklist together for newbie's like me.
You are A good TH-cam i love your vides
Thanks!
❤️❤️
This was helpful. I've never pulled the air filter off a bike before buying or laid it over to inspect the underside of the engine and I've had really good luck with the bikes I've bought but will definitely check those on my next buys! Typically I'll almost always rebuild the top end on my two strokes after I buy one and while doing that, go over everything else on the bike as I tear it down. One overlooked thing I find often is worn reeds! They almost always need replacing!
Holy engine brake
A lot of great info here. Thank you for taking the time to lay it all out like that.
maybe i should of watched this before buying my pit bike 🙈
Great video, thanks for posting. Detailed, clear, good camera work, etc. Next Video: How to convince one's wife that buying a bike for the kiddo (9 years old) is not a bad thing. Joys of learning to ride vs dangers.
I am looking at a 2010 Kx250f today with only ten hours on it from brand new
Hey M8 be sure he has proof. 4 strokes are dangerous to buy used
@@MASincorporated why's that?
Nathan C People lie, if your buying used your obviously on a budget. That being said you probably don’t have the spare money if something in the motor goes wrong, as 4 stroke can be extremely expensive to fix if blown.
Aii so pull the drain plug and check the magnetic shank if it has metal filings that's normal wear but if it has shelling you might see chunks or pieces of a hammered gear . that could mean expensive trany repairs also check the air intake boot as well as the carb manifold intake
Claude Perea I don’t think people want you emptying the oil and having full tear down when trying to sell there bikes lol
Do a rebuild on a Honda 150rb
Thanks man..
This is a Perfect Checklist,i'm thinking of buying Dirt Bike soon