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Bicycle transportation is about as economical as you can get. They don't need gas, have low maintenance requirements, last forever, are nonpolluting, go anywhere, are healthy, and you don't need a license or insurance. Follow these steps if you are considering a used road bicycle for your transportation needs.

Because bicycles last for decades with little maintenance, used road bicycles in good working order are widely available for very little money. Although new bicycles are usually sold with a warranty, by careful inspection, quality used bicycles can be purchased for less than the cost of a week's worth of groceries.

The perfect place to discover used road bicycles is your nearby bike store. The discount bicycles that you will find sold at local bike shops will have been previously inspected and tuned up to ensure that they are in good order. You may find a good bike if you browse through newspapers, online, or at yard sales, but you should consider inspecting the bicycle before paying for it.

When you check out used road bicycles you need to evaluate their main parts. Begin with the frame. Dents and scrapes on a frame are generally the result of simple usage. On the other hand, if a frame is cracked or has a bend in it, you are probably looking at a grave structural defect which could cause the frame to collapse under the weight of the bicyclist. A failure of either frame, handlebars or braking mechanism can result in a bruising, crippling, or even fatal accident.

The handlebars should fit snugly in the steering tube of the frame. If they wiggle it can be dangerous. Once you are satisfied as to the condition of the frame, handlebars and seat, check out the brakes. While standing next to the bike, push it forward a little and pull each brake lever separately to see how they work.

The front and rear brakes ought to seize securely enough so that the wheel comes to a total stop when applied full force. Test this while you are seated on the bicycle, but use caution so you don't inadvertently throw yourself off if you grab the brake too vehemently. Brake pads which show wear should be replaced.

Next, check the drivetrain. Wiggle the gear sets by the pedals, as well as the gear set attached to the rear axle. Side-to-side motion of the gears or the pedals indicates worn bearings. Check the chain for any unusual signs of damage. Check the gear shifting apparatus to make sure each gear can be cleanly engaged.

Finally, inspect the wheels and tires. Wheels should be round, not oval. Grab the spokes. The spokes should be even and firmly seated. Spin the wheel while standing directly overhead, looking straight down. A good wheel should show very little or no side-to-side motion as it spins. If the bike passes your inspection, take it for a quick ride before making the final purchasing decision.