need advice on a big red purchase. things to look for.

[Rawlins350x]

Going to look at a big red this weekend. The guy has it in his garage and claims that the plastics are in decent shape. he "thinks" the timing chain is off. I'm usually skeptical of internal issues i cannot see. I know how to check for suspension and bearings. just wondering if you guys could give me some more things to look close at, since i've never owned a big red. how to tell if reverse functions? check the drive line? stuff like that.. he's asking $200.

[live2rideatc]

take off the gas cap and feel around the tank with finger and c if its rusty before u get it running.if its rusted the carb might be gummed up too

[code200k]

check for the normal stuff bearings,leaks,frme cracks/welds etc... but he will probally take 150 cash i think

[Thorpe]

200 bucks... Who cares? Snap it up! You cant go wrong at that price!

[code200k]

200 bucks... Who cares? Snap it up! You cant go wrong at that price!

shows how cheap i am lol but also see if you can clues on its treatment from the dudes other projects /toys etc

[Rawlins350x]

Thanks for the quick reply's. The last bike I snapped up on impulse raped my wallet like no other. I'm more concerned about the reverse being seized and how to check it? If I end up passing on it I'll def have pictures and contact info for anyone who's more ambitious than me.

[ScottZJ]

Well Big reds are very hard to kill, so I am sure its just the timing or valves that need ajusting. However, if you do get it, I do have 3 complete motors that I could help you out with. That is, if your motor was toast. Main thing, is to check the rear diff for grinding, slop or anything fluid leaking.

[harryredtrike]

quick way to check timing chain is to take off cdi cover on side of motor[left side]take's two phillips screws.crank over engine if it moves around counter clockwise is at least together.

[aldochina]

is this an 84200 or 85250? If its a 250 for 200 bucks, and it looks decent, it is probably well worth it. Remove the differential plug and make sure its not dry in there.