Would you buy a used trainer?

[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.