What to look for, first FS

[BigTuna]

I'm hoping to go and collect an 06 Kona Coiler on Sunday, but before I hand over my hard earned i'm wondering if anyone can give me some tips on what to look out for.

My plan is to strip the bike down and replace bearings, etc before I start riding again (spot the fair weather rider) so things like that aren't so much of a worry, I just don't want to buy a pup.

Main areas of concern will be rear shock, and frame I should imagine?

Cheers

Edited by BigTuna on Wednesday 29th December 10:11

[timbo48]

The main problem, if it exists, will be with the bearings at the pivots and since you've already decided to sort these, that shouldn't be a problem. You can buy a complete set from Kona, I think mine (I have a Dawg) cost around £45. Otherwise coil shock, I assume it is a coil, should be ok together with the fork. Both servicable, anyway. Frames are pretty tough but look for any dents, I'd expect some stone chipping on the down tube plus a bit of chain wear on the stay on a bike of that age if it's been used regularly. Otherwise, you're looking at stuff that wears on any bike, headset, BB, chain, cassette, etc. Bike is quite weighty IIRC but very good downhill so good for trail centre, down the woods, etc.

You should also look for serious scratches, or indentations on the fork stantions and shock shaft plus any sign of fluid leakage from either. Plus I would check for replacement fork seals, some should have been fitted on a four year old bike, unless it's been sat in a garage for a bit.

Edited by timbo48 on Wednesday 29th December 10:01

[Parrot of Doom]

Check for any wobbling on the fork when braking.

[BigTuna]

Cheers chaps..

I've to drive all the way to Warminster from Sheffield to collect this thing, it better be how he's described it!