Would you buy a used trainer?

[Biciclista]

we did. then we gave it away and then we bought another

[smilingcat]

Talk to the owner and find out what kind of rider (s)he is. If they say anything about racing or being a club rider, I think I'll pass cause chances are pretty good that its got miles on it.

If on the other hand, the person was going to be using it for their exercise and decided it wasn't worth it, then you probably have a really good deal. If it was stored properly and have collected bit of dust, its probably more than worth it.

I think there are ton of good deals out there. Especially bikes in smaller frame size 52cm and lower. Same with trainers and other athletic equipment. Just see the owner and gauge their level of activity.

oh only time I bought anything from another racer was a SRAM groupo brand new. It wasn't used so I didn't mind that the owner was a cat 2 rider.

smilingcat

[Iris616]

I got mine from CL, and have been really happy with it. What worked well for me: I posted a "wanted" ad. Withing 24 hours, I had several responses. I spoke to every one who responded. the asking price range and the quality of what people were offering varied greatly. It was a good way for me to be in control of the situation, and have several options at once.
I've been using my trainer 3 or 4 times a week since I got it, doing some serious training sessions, and have been very happy with it.

[melissam]

That would depend on what he had been used for . . .

Excellent response!

I don't know much about them and will learn more before I go to look at one (they seem to turn up on Craigslist fairly often).

Once I do that, is it possible to judge condition, reliability, etc. with common sense and visual observation?

Pam

Would it be feasible to bring your bike with you and set it up on the trainer? That way you can see if the trainer works and how easy it is to set up and tear down.

Other than that, I'd check for leaks coming from the fluid resistance unit (assuming it's that kind of trainer), any missing knobs/parts, any scratches. See how easy the rolling unit moves.