Going to look at '86 250R...need advice ASAP!!!!

[250RWANTER]

Okay, just found a 1986 250R trike, 90% tread on tires, everything works, good shape or so he says. its a must sell....and its CHEAP.

What some things I should look for?

Any common problems too check out?

Any advice is appreciated!
thanks!

[atc krazy]

see if it starts and if it runs good and u will be 250Rhaver lol that is if u buy it

[250RWANTER]

haha, I hope its runs well and looks descent. actually, I hope its still there after I get outta work *fingers crossed*

[350Kris]

I'm new to 2 strokes, but I can help you with the obvious.

Grab a hold of the axle and try to move it from side to side. If you are a tough guy you don't need to elevate the bike -- you'll be able to feel looseness. If it's loose, you'll need new carrier bearings and seals.

Look at the sprockets and the chain. If the sprockets are grooved or chipped, they will need replacing. If the chain is out of adjustment or rusty it might indicate that the fella is not too keen on maintenance.

Check the air filter. If it's clean and in good condition, the guy probably understands the importance of clean, unrestricted air to a smooth running engine. He probably takes care of all the maintenance items.

If the bike is running when you arrive, be careful. It might have taken the guy an hour to start it. When I look at a bike, I reach down and feel for heat from the engine or the pipe. If it's cold, I know that the engine wasn't primed prior to me getting there and the seller will be starting the bike cold.

Check the tranny oil. If it looks like it just came out of the bottle -- he changed it before you arrived. Ask to see the old oil. Look for metal, excessive discoloration, and/or the odor of gas.

Take a look around the fork seals. Compress the forks and then feel the area on the shaft directly above the fork seals. Rub your fingers together, if they are slippery, the forks are leaking. Some sellers will drain the fork oil so you don't see it coming out of the seals.

Ride the bike! I always take my helmet with me when I go to look at a bike. Put your helmet on and go for a spin. If he objects, be leary. When you are riding try to make it through all the gears (in this case 6). Never just put around from 1st to 3rd and call it quits. Maybe 5th gear is missing and 6th is on the way out!!! Test the brakes. Check the throttle response. Bounce the suspension -- check for rebound, etc.

Cosmetics are on you. I don't look for perfection -- I look for potential. If the frame is cracked or welded the value goes down. Surface rust is okay, but pitting is another story. If the bike will be your daily rider don't worry so much.

Hope this helps.

[smokinwrench]

I have bought many used 2 strokes. I would ride the bike for quit awhile (30 minutes ride time minumum) . That will let you know of any obvious problems. Every used 2 stroke I have ever bought has needed a topend shortly after buying it. Check the normal bearings.

When I sell something I always change the oil before selling it just so the machine is 100% when sold.

[250RWANTER]

It turned out to be an '84...NOT an 86 like the ad said
The search continues!
Thanks for all of the great replies though :beer