QUICK advice needed

adam.risborg

Guest

« on: September 15, 2008, 11,40:21 AM »

Hi Guys,

Im going to look at a KTM 450 EXC tomorrow arvo, and need some advice on what to look for, and what to questions to ask...

Details:

KTM, 450EXC, 2003 model, full engine rebuild, new clutch, registered, GoodCondition, $6,000

Any help much appreciated!

Cheers guys.


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steve f

Full Member 2013/2014

Posts: 223

Re: QUICK advice needed

« Reply #1 on: September 15, 2008, 11,50:32 AM »

Adam ring Dave the web editor tomorrow on his mobile as I believe he has owned one... maybe


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I never knew true happiness until I got married... Then it was to late...

adam.risborg

Guest

Re: QUICK advice needed

« Reply #2 on: September 15, 2008, 03,42:50 PM »

Cheers Steve.

Any other general points that would apply to all second hand bikes?

I know the basics, i.e bearing movement, loose pegs, twisted frame etc.. but the engine rebuild is something I've never inspected before. Any tips?


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Ken R

Committee 2013/2014

Posts: 699

Himalayas gateway, only 16,000ft to go.

Re: QUICK advice needed

« Reply #3 on: September 15, 2008, 10,28:52 PM »

You should ask for the receipts from the rebuilder. Check for any rounded nuts or screws that could indicate a rough mechanic. If the rebuilder is a reputable shop they should not mind some warranty. Check for good compression. Take the plug out after you have ridden it and check for signs of oil. Check the water for signs of oil. Check the condition of the oil thru level window if available or on the dip stick. All the wiring back to the motor should be neat and zip tied. Check for gasket hanging out of joints or over use of sealant. Why did it need a rebuild?
The Rest - how worn are the discs check for lip around edge, how worn are the pads, are the wheels round give em a spin, loose or broken spokes, air cleaner condition and fit to air box, any dirt inside the air box, bearings at each end of rear shocker, has the oil been changed in rear shock and forks, are the wheels in line take string to check both sides, any play or centre notch in head races, any play in the fork leg bushes, smooth action of all controls, brake fluid leaks under boots.


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SEX - It's OK, but nothing like the real thing!!

adam.risborg

Guest

Re: QUICK advice needed

« Reply #4 on: September 16, 2008, 02,08:48 PM »

Hey Ken,

Thanks so much for the advice... It helped me spot a lot of small things on the KTM that would have cost a fair bit to make good.

Most disappointing was the lack of documentation or receipts for the rebuild, although it seemed to ride ok.

On another note, I'm off to look at three 2003 WR450's later in the week, and in addition to the points Ken made above, are there any WR-specific problems I should be keeping an eye out for?

Again, any help is much appreciated

Cheers guys!


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steve f

Full Member 2013/2014

Posts: 223

Re: QUICK advice needed

« Reply #5 on: September 17, 2008, 08,05:57 AM »

the only one I can think of is that they're blue


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I never knew true happiness until I got married... Then it was to late...

Serge C

Full Member 2013/2014

Posts: 3011

Re: QUICK advice needed

« Reply #6 on: September 17, 2008, 08,21:42 AM »

True Blue - not Commi Red! Grin


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