Shopping for a bike can be overwhelming. You want to ask questions, test-ride it, and see how it fits you before purchasing. Buying used lets you avoid the initial depreciation cost and gets you more bikes for your money.
Always use a trusted payment method and never send money before seeing the bike in person.
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More Options
Whether shopping at a local bike shop or online, many more options are available than just the bikes on display. Many shops will have used bikes one to three years old but in excellent condition, with no sign of heavy use and still a warranty in place. You can often find great deals on these bikes, saving you $50 or more in shipping costs alone.
There are good bargains online, but it’s vital to research the sellers and the items you’re considering purchasing. A bit of homework in the form of reading reviews, checking the closing auction prices of similar bikes, and asking questions on cycling forums can help ensure you stay caught up. If you’re buying from a seller who lives close to you, it may be possible to set up a time to meet and check out the bike in person before committing to the purchase. Be sure to bring a friend who knows something about bikes along with you so that they can check over the frame, fork, headset, and all other components.
Save Money
The bike market is highly competitive, especially in the US. If you buy used bikes online, you can save more money rather than buying a new one. A big benefit of buying from a local seller is seeing the bike in person before the transaction occurs. This can be important for spotting nicks, dings, and damage that may not be visible in pictures. It’s also a great way to ensure the bike fits properly (though a test ride in a shop is always best).
Buyers can often negotiate prices with sellers on online marketplaces or auction sites. Just be sure to do your research and read the descriptions carefully. Be bold and ask questions or request more photos if needed. Also, be wary of sellers who list extras on their bikes, such as pedals, computers, and spare wheels. These can add to a bike’s price but are not worth paying extra for if you can get the same components at a lower cost elsewhere. And finally, don’t be fooled by sellers who claim their bike has been “repaired” to hide a flaw. This can be a big red flag and is a sign that the seller is trying to scam you.
Easy Shipping
The most popular marketplaces for used bikes are local, so you’ll work with a seller in person. They can answer your questions and give you a thorough, honest appraisal of the bike before a sale. And since a bike is often a person’s pride and joy, extra care may be taken with informative and in-depth descriptions. Totting nicks, dents, and other damage in photos can be tough. It’s also hard to gauge whether a person has added upgrades that sometimes add up.
For example, a carbon handlebar and stem might cost more than a regular steel version, but those parts have different resale values, so it’s hard to make a fair comparison. One of the easiest ways to get a great deal on a used bike is to shop at a local pawn shop. They’re located in every city and are a great option for buyers who need to save money and don’t mind taking on a few risks. They often have a wide variety of inventory, so you’ll likely find a bike that fits your needs.
Easy Returns
If you don’t love a bike once you get it, most online and local bike stores will take it back for a full refund if it’s unused and properly repackaged. Some even give you up to 30 days. That’s a lot of time to determine whether that bike is right for you.
Online classifieds and marketplaces are great places to find used bikes, but they can be daunting for people new to the sport. Some great deals exist, but savvy buyers should be wary of any seller with no or low feedback. Especially for higher-valued bikes, these sellers can be aggressive hagglers and will try to sell the bike at a loss. Also, be aware that bikes on marketplaces and pawn shops are generally overpriced as they’re not selling the bike for what it costs them to buy or build. This doesn’t necessarily mean these are rusting relics nobody wants, but it should raise some suspicions.
Another option is the online marketplace, which allows you to chat with the seller via chat before a meeting. This can make it easier to negotiate a price, and it’s a great way to see if you like the bike in person before buying it. Be sure to test-ride it and bring it to a shop afterward for a basic checkup and tune.
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