It is said that the best way to feel stylish on a budget is to buy second hand. Buying things that are already used has always been a good way to save a few dollars. Such a saving, however, comes with its risks. If you are looking to buy second hand or pre-owned bikes, the risk is likely to get multiplied. It is important therefore, to be doubly sure and go through a process of rechecks when buying a pre-owned bike. Such a measure ensures that you don’t buy into someone else’s negligence! Here are some basic precautions that you must employ to reduce the risks involved in second hand deals.
Be sure you ask a lot of questions. One of the most fundamental questions that needs to be asked is why the owner wants to dispense with their prized possession. Only proceed further, if the answer to this very important and crucial question sounds fully genuine and satisfactory. If the owner sounds touchy or visibly conscious, be sure to end the deal. This question will open up a box of other questions that you must ask to be convinced that your deal isn’t a risky one.
Delve deeper into the usage history. Whether parts of your bike had been previously changed. If changed, what parts were they and when exactly did they last service their bike? Answers to these questions would help you understand a great deal about the actual working condition of the bike.
Another important concern to beware of is whether the bike for sale has ever been crashed or in any accident. If you find anything shady about the answers, ditch their bike immediately. Since checking over a bike for damage requires experience, you could find stores or specialists that engage in such pursuits for a small fee. If this option doesn’t work for you, you could try checking for apparent flaws.
It is rather important that the bike you buy has a sound and flawless frame. To ensure this, you could check for any obvious dents, scratches or visible damages and even chips. Even a small crack in a carbon frame can lead to fatal results. If you are checking an alloy bike, be sensitive to corrosion stemming from rust or paint bubbling.
Tires are most likely to be in the best condition, since replacing them is inexpensive and easy. Most tires have a small hole in the center of the tire indicating some wear and tear. If no such signs are visible it means there is no tread left and they need to be replaced.
Be sensitive to unusual movement and squeaky noises. If the bike that is up for sale happens to make unusual noises, it means it has a story to tell. This story may be about the bike being poorly maintained. Suspension in bike is another area that is affected by daily wear and tear. It is also worth questioning whether the suspensions had ever been replaced, repaired or changed.
Once all of the above is checked and considered, you could probably get an expert to check the parts. Make sure you only proceed further with price negotiations once you are thoroughly convinced that all is well with the bike. It is always wise to be sure that you don’t save some only to pay a bigger price later! If getting a basic bike and saving on the extra buck is your only criteria, make sure that you choose wisely!
It is extremely tough to master the nuances of a complex sport like golf. Beginners, in particular, can find it to be exhausting and confusing because of the multiple rules and equipment involved. While one has to work hard on their skills, with the right clubs, golfing can turn into the most rewarding experience.
The following are some common types of golf clubs newbies should know of.
Woods
These types of golf clubs were initially made of wood; however, they are now created with materials like steel or titanium. Woods are useful for propelling the golf ball to the farthest distances. The heads of such clubs are large and rounded, whereas their base is flat, which allows the player to effortlessly swing the club over the ground. Driver and fairways are the two most popular kinds of woods used.
Irons
The irons are used once the player is closer to the green, i.e., when one is within 200 yards of the hole. The iron golf set covers clubs numbered from 3 to 9 and a pitching wedge. The lower numbered irons can be a little tricky to use. Therefore, several beginners adjust their golf set by picking a few wood clubs so that they could comfortably strike the ball and at the same time cover big distances.
Wedges
The pitching wedge is incorporated in the standard iron set; however, one will need to purchase other types of wedges too. These golf clubs have a high loft with a short shaft and come in handy for hitting the ball over the tree or removing the golf ball from the sand. The sand, gap, and lob are some popular sorts of wedges that can be bought separately. However, the beginners, usually only need the pitching edge. They can buy the additional variety as their level of play advances.
Putters
Every golfer needs putter in their set as it serves an essential purpose, i.e., pushing the ball in the hole when the player is on the green. The putter clubs are available in 3 different styles, including heel-toe, mallet, and traditional blade. Mallets are the recommended option for most beginners. Generally, standard putters are 32 to 36 inches long; however, one can get them customized based on their comfort.
Hybrids
Also called as utility clubs, hybrids are a comparatively a newer addition in professional and recreational golf. The hybrids combine the shaft of the irons and the head of the fairway wood. They are designed to replace the lower numbered irons that are difficult to play with. These clubs cover the same distances as irons but are easier to swing, making them ideal for beginners.
A seasoned player or rookie, it is important to know that the key to a good golf game is using the right club. At times, choosing a golf club can turn into a daunting task because of the extensive range of golf clubs that are available in the market. Several players, especially, beginners make the blunder of buying clubs that don’t agree with their swing mechanics or level of play. Therefore, before making a purchase, here are some essential factors one should scrutinize.
Golf club length
It is imperative for a player to get a golf club of the right length. Standard golf clubs are designed for men and women with an approximate height of 5 foot 10 inches. If players are taller or shorter than the stated height, then they will need to get their golf clubs customized. Likewise, physical strength also needs to be taken into consideration. So, individuals with short stature can opt for lighter golf clubs so that it doesn’t interfere with their swing power.
Grips
The grips are crucial for maintaining the player’s control over the golf club. Going for the wrong grips can impede one’s golf game. There are four types of grips to choose from, i.e., the standard grip, the under-sized grip, the mid-sized grip, and the over-sized grip. Moreover, they come in a variety of textures like smooth, coarse, and abrasive. To pick the best grips, one should consult a professional golf fitter.
Shaft material
The shaft of the golf club makes up for the majority of its weight. Typically, these shafts are created using graphite or steel. Graphite shafts are comparatively more expensive. However, they are lighter and render better distance with every swing. Moreover, their lightness makes it simpler for the player to swing. This feature could benefit people who significantly lack arm strength. Alternatively, steel is heavier and cheaper but makes a great option for individuals who have a good arm strength and need the additional weight to restrain their swings.
Accessories
While buying a golf club, one should ensure to buy some essential accessories like a golf bag, gloves, and shoes. Although it is optional to use gloves and golf shoes, these accessories can come in handy. The gloves can improve the grip on the golf club, and the shoes can prevent the player from slipping and falling on the course.