Any tips on things (problems) to look for on a used trike?

[RoadRacer 831]

I'm going to look at an 85 SX today, and since I am a total rookie with 3 wheelers at this point, I was wondering if any of you have any tips/suggestions on things to check on it before I decide to buy it? One kind user has suggested checking the ring & pinion lube and flex joint. Any other things I should look for that may not be too obvious?
Thanks,
Andy

[monster 84r]

hm. well for starters, make sure if its a four stroke that it doesnt smoke. also check all of the gears. run the bike through them all. trust me, i found this out the hard way. make sure the engine starts and runs well, check the chain, sprockets, cables, plastics etc. in case something has a problem, you can talk them down due to the issue.


good luck with the sx, welcome to the boards!

[CorbinKale]

Check the chain tension. If they have it super tight, they may be trying to cover excessive play in the rear axle. Loosen the chain a bit and make sure the axle doesn't bang around like a pencil in a cup.

[RoadRacer 831]

Thanks for the tips. I'll be sure to remember that if I check out any chain drive models. How about the SX rear end? How do you tell if the bearings need to be replaced?

[chris200x]

Check the chain tension. If they have it super tight, they may be trying to cover excessive play in the rear axle. Loosen the chain a bit and make sure the axle doesn't bang around like a pencil in a cup.

the 250sx has no chain and sprockets. ;)

another good thing to do is stand the bike up on the rear grab bar and inspect the undercarrige. Also look for any oil leaks. look for play in the rear end by either riding it and listen for the crumbling or popping noise or shake the rear and look for play. On my sx rear axle bearings were shot and i remember hearing the "crumbling noise". :eek:

Listen to the motor for the obvious. knocking or the timing chain rattling around inside there.

[Tri-ZNate]

check the rear end oil if you can, look at the oil in the engine (pull the dipstick out), run it, make sure it goes through all the gears smoothly (they tend to klunk when you put it in first. Another feature of the SX :D), and see if there is any brakes, take it for a ride and see how you like it. If all conditions are meant then buy it.

[Rm250RF900R]

Yeah definatly check all the bearings. Check frame for cracks, make sure forks are nice and straight and also make sure theres no fluid on them. That would mean you need new fork seals. Umm, check for oil leaks, I would make sure reverse works, make sure non of the wiring is all messed up. Most of these are simple fixes so dont get to stressed out about it.

[CorbinKale]

the 250sx has no chain and sprockets. ;)

LOL, my brain is in another world right now. I have spent the past few days researching the best solution for my 350X rear end, so I got chains on my mind. Sorry about that!