i may buy a 250r and was wondering if there is some things i should check out on it before buying it. Any suggestions?

 

There are alot of things to check for but this is with all used quads. First and foremost is just genaral condition , does it look like it has been wrecked(bent bumpers, pipe or frame damage). Condition of the plastic is important too because of the high cost of replacement. THe condition of cosmetic items like the plastic, paint job will give some insight as to the condition of the parts you cant see. It may seem a little awkward but buy a compression tester and bring it with you, ask if theyll let you check it. Youll have to see what stock compression is on a 250r, im not sure i think its around 150lbs.THis will give you some idea as to the condition of the engine. I have 190lbs on mine thats all i know. IT is a good idea to take a good look at the engine once you buy it anyway, id re-ring it whether it needs it or not just to get a look at the cylinder. If nothing is wrong with it , it will only cost you new rings and new gaskets, but if there is a problem itll save you hundreds. I rode my lt250r for 6 months with a cracked sleeve and piston, luckily i had the motor ported and saw these things needed taken care of. If the piston had cracked completely it may have taken out the rod , crank or anything else. Lift the back end up and wiggle the back axle, if it is sloppy youll need new axle bearings, things like this will give you an idea of how it has been maintained and how hard it has been riden. Also gives you an idea of what youll need to spend to get it where it needs to be. Maybe you can check tranny oil to see if the guy ever changed it. Check also for what upgrades it has, stock atvs are nice because they usually are better maintained , but not always. If it has alot of after market parts like newer carb., nice set of pipes, a set of sand and dirt tires, it may be worth picking up if the price is right. Some bikes may have alot of extras but look like theyve been to hell and back so be careful and try to balance price with what you know you are getting(upgrades that youll need to buy anyway) and what you think you are getting( A quad with little upgrades but possibly well maintained).