Possible new rider

[jhunt14]

Hey all. I am looking to buy a 2005 LIFAN 200cc enduro with 200 miles on it for $1200:
http://knoxville.craigslist.org/mcy/722350017.html
That is all the information I have on it right now. Is this a good deal? I hope to use it for a 50mi/day commute; is this a good idea? Thanks for the advice, I hope to be posting here again.

[bmjwright]

$1,200 sounds high to me...a new Hi-Bird can be bought for $1,200. I'd offer $800 and walk away if they don't take it.

What would your top speed need to be during your 50mi/day commute? How much do you weigh?

[dieselhead]

It seems to me, for another hundred or 2 at the most, you can get a new 08 delivered and KNOW it has not been abused.

[jhunt14]

I would need to go about 50-60mph. I weigh 150lbs. I am particularly concerned about breakdowns. I can do the mechanics but I dont want to have to worry about getting stranded every time i drive to work/school.

[bmjwright]

I would need to go about 50-60mph. I weigh 150lbs. I am particularly concerned about breakdowns. I can do the mechanics but I dont want to have to worry about getting stranded every time i drive to work/school.

I wouldn't worry about breaking down if you keep up with routine maint., but 60mph is about top speed for these bikes...I'd get something larger or at least change out the sprocket.

[red2003]

55 - 60 is where these bikes shine with the correct gearing. At your weight, 60 mph will be no problem with a 200cc bike.

[mrhyak]

$1,200 is about what a bike cost new in 2005. I bought my 2005 in 2007 with 4 clicks on the odometer for $500. The Lifan has low miles, but a bike sitting around for 3 years is not good for it either and could have some minor issues from being idle so long. IMO $900 is the MAX I would consider paying, but as said already you can order a new HiBird for the same price they are asking for the 3 year old Lifan.

[AZ200cc]

Talk em down or pass on it. But Do look at Chinese bikes as an option they are better than they get credit for. Look for a new one if You have that much to spend

[alonzo]

after testing an 06 that was non counterbalenced and riding my 07 that is counterbalanced. I have to say the vibrations and a brand new unabused bike is worth putting down the extra 200 bucks for an 08.

Just my thoughts.

[maf119l]

I wold offer $900 if it has been registured for street.If it is a "grey" Lifan it could be hard to get it registured.If it is an "American Lifan" there should be no problem getting it re-registured in your name for street use.No problem with running 60-65.I weigh 330 and have no problem doing that on my.May need to be regeared,not sure what the gearing was on the 2005's.EJcycles on here should know that.

[jhunt14]

Thanks for all the advice! I ended up getting it for 1000, but it looks to be in perfect condition. rides nice, brakes, clutch and transmission feel great. I didnt take it on the road but the guy i bought it from said he got it to 65 without opening up the throttle all the way. Will let you know how i like it once I get some miles on it.

[katoranger]

Not too bad a deal. Did it come with a clear title?

Allen