If you’re looking to buy a bike but with a limited budget, then consider getting a used bike. There are many ways to look for used bikes today, each with its pros and cons.
It’s helpful to know some of the best sources that feature reliable sellers, good contact, and room for feedback and communication.
Here are some of the most popular ways to find second-hand bikes, which means you’ll have a better chance of finding something that works for you.
eBay
For over 20 years, eBay has been a favorite for used bike bargain hunters.
With both auctions and Buy It Now features, as well as saved searches that alert you to new posts and consistent seller ratings and feedback, chances are there’s something here for everyone, and often at incredibly fair prices.
eBay pros
- Money Back Policy ensures you can get your money back if the item bought didn’t arrive, is faulty or damaged, or doesn’t match the listing.
- Access to all used bike listings worldwide.
eBay cons
- The seller incurs a listing fee, likely to be factored into the asking price.
Craiglist
While Craigslist has often been joked about as a place for weird personals and dented cookware, it’s a terrific way to find second-hand bicycles due to its universality across the United States and its ease of use for local sellers.
Craiglist pros
- Very localized search, allowing you to meet up and pay in cash.
- Sellers are often open to negotiation
Craiglist cons
- Lack of enforcement leads to many fake listings.
Facebook Marketplace
A resurrected version of Facebook’s 2007 Marketplace feature, this time it’s more prominently featured on both the desktop and mobile versions, allowing everyday users to comfortably and seamlessly post items for sale.
The Facebook Marketplace allows hopeful buyers to spot items and deals that might be missed on larger classified websites.
Facebook Marketplace pros
- Localized listing up to 200 miles radius, allowing for Cash on Delivery.
- Easy to use platform as many cyclists use Facebook.
Facebook Marketplace cons
- Lack of enforcement leads to many inaccurate listings.
Facebook Buy/Sell Groups
These are what convinced Facebook to bring back the Marketplace.
Simple groups through which individuals can post used bikes and second-hand gear for sale, most are open to the public.
Compared to the Facebook Marketplace, these groups have a very targeted audience. You can be sure of better chances of finding more choices and sellers who know their stuff.
Facebook Buy/Sell Groups pros
- Targeted listings as the groups of a specific niche.
- Some level of enforcement by the group admins.
Facebook Buy/Sell Groups cons
- Comments feature on the listing can get hostile and negative.
Local bike shops and used bike dealers
The traditional go-to for a reliable used bike. It’s always a good idea to check out your local bike shops first.
Chances are they’ll be open to negotiation, and even if you end up paying a little extra, you can enjoy the fact that you’re supporting a local business while also being sure that you can check out your prospective bike in person with qualified advice to hand.
Bike shops pros
- Buying from a reputable local business.
- Access to professional advice before buying.
Bike shop cons
- Price is slightly higher as the shops need to make some profit.
- Limited to your local area.
Cycling friends/groups
If you have friends who are into cycling, whether competitively or just to get around town, they’ll likely have one or two older bikes they’d be willing to part with.
Some can be so enthusiastic that they’ll eagerly purchase something newer and flashier just out of interest, so when that happens, be sure to ask nicely what their plans are for their old ride.
Cycling friends/groups pros
- You’ll have a better idea of the seller’s background and the bike’s history.
- Ability to negotiate a better price.
Cycling friends/groups cons
- Limited to your local area.
- Minimal choices are available.
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