How to Buy a Used Bike

BUYER Be-AWARE

Buying a used bike is a great option—you may save money and give an old machine new life.That said, purchasing a used bike does have its challenges. Every year we see students who’ve purchased used bikes that are too large or too small; that require expensive repairs; or are clearly stolen property.

So how do you protect yourself and get the right bike for your needs?The easiest way to ensure the size, quality, and condition of a bike is to buy used from a reputable bike shop. If your local bike shop doesn’t have anything used, however, here are a few simple steps you can take to make sure you get what you need.

Know your size

• The chart at the bottom of this page provides a general sizing guide for most types of bikes. Remember, however, that bikes can all fit a bit differently depending on the brand, so be sure to take a test ride.

Know what type of bike you need

• For commuters, you’ll be looking for something called a city-bike, hybrid, or fitness bike. These bikes are well suited for practical use and can usually be outfitted with a rack and fenders. Mountain bikes with road tires can also make great commuter bikes. Do not buy a bike with suspension or designed for serious off road use. (Front suspension isn’t a deal-breaker, but rear suspension is.)

Know how much to spend

The seller's asking price is sometimes less relevant than the price when the bike was new. A bike that cost $450 or more when new is generally of high enough quality to be worth fixing when parts wear out.

Determine if the bike needs repairs or is excessively worn.

• The easiest way to do this is to ask the seller to meet you at a local bike shop. This will be a safe space for both parties and will give you the opportunity to have the bike’s condition evaluated by a professional.

• Many shops do not charge for this service, but it’s courteous to pay the mechanic a few dollars or to buy some accessories at the shop to thank them for their time.

Do not buy a bike from someone who will not meet you at a bike shop – the bike is either stolen or the seller is up to no good!

Finally, don’t commit to rent anything sight-unseen. We've seen this scam more than once. Someone will rent a bike for $50 to $100 from a landlord only to find themselves with a bike taken from a dumpster or purchased from a department store for less than the rental price!

*Not all companies measure their bikes in the same way. The chart above is rough guide and may not ensure the proper fit.