Used bikes - is it worth buying a used bike?

Many customers ask us about used bikes. Is it a wise purchase, and if so, where can they be found, and what should you consider when choosing? The prices seem more than attractive compared to new bikes. And since a bicycle is a machine that's difficult to completely destroy, the used bike market is incredibly extensive. Can something wear out so much that it's worth paying extra for a new one? It turns out it is. A separate issue (which I'll discuss below) is the quality of most bikes available. As with many complex issues, it's difficult to make a definitive decision, but many aspects are quite clear. Here you'll find the most important facts and advice on where to buy a used bike. I'll also explain when it's definitely worth buying new and when it's not. I invite you to read and ask questions!

Where to buy a used bike?

For many people, buying a used bike is inextricably linked to auction and classifieds sites. Allegro and OLX are full of offers at almost every price point. Of course, the cheapest ones predominate. Online services strive to ensure buyer safety and are increasingly improving in this regard. The problem lies elsewhere. When buying anything online, you have two options. You can either take a chance and buy based on photos and descriptions, or go and see the item in person. The first option is quite risky, and in the case of used bikes, it often involves disappointment, to a greater or lesser extent. The second offers greater certainty, but requires effort and time, and usually limits your choices to the immediate area. Of course, there's no shortage of dealers, usually importing bikes from abroad. In this case, you can view several bikes at once, which increases your chances of success. Unfortunately, my experiences with bikes from such establishments have mostly been less than positive. They're usually pre-owned "bargains" that require a comprehensive service to get started. These are especially common are high-end road bikes, several or even a dozen years old, with worn-out drivetrains. Of course, I'm not saying that every bike dealer is a thief or a con artist. However, I should point out that unreliable sellers are still very common. "Bikes from the Netherlands" and "Bikes from Germany" are often literally salvaged from scrapyards and landfills. How to buy a used bike without getting screwed? If you have experience or a friend who knows about bikes and their service, you can save a lot of money by checking individual offers by taking your time. An alternative is to visit a local bike shop. Some shops also sell used bikes, and to maintain their local reputation, they only accept bikes in good condition. It might not be the bargain of a lifetime, but the likelihood of it being in good condition is much higher. There are also stationary second-hand bike shops. I especially recommend those with a service history that indicates the sellers know their stuff. A part-time shop and pawn shops are a bad place to look for a bike. The same applies to all kinds of auctions. Everyone's heard stories about incredible deals and unique items for pennies at auctions. While there's undoubtedly some truth to this, most of the bikes you'll find there are scrap.

Risk

What are the most common problems? Neglectful maintenance by previous owners, of course. A worn-out drivetrain is a definite no-no. Not everyone realizes the need for regular chain replacement. Especially inexpensive, high-end used bikes should raise concerns in this regard. Replacing the crankset and cassette can be a significant expense or a hassle. Other common problems include neglected bearings in the wheels, bottom bracket, and headset. Service is usually sufficient in these cases, although there are also cases beyond repair. Improper repairs are a separate issue. While damaged threads in a stem or seat clamp are a matter of replacing the component, a damaged bottom bracket shell or a seized seatpost (a common problem) can be a bigger problem. Even a well-maintained bike usually has some minor imperfections, and it's no wonder—nobody wants to invest in a bike they're selling. Therefore, it's always important to consider the upfront costs and thoroughly inspect used bikes before your first ride. For bikes with carbon fiber parts, inspect them very carefully. Carbon fiber is very sensitive to impacts and road salt. Even small cracks can develop dangerously. You should also avoid all "opportunities" after repairs. It would be foolish to lose teeth. The same applies to welded aluminum and steel frames.

What to look for when buying used bikes?

First and foremost, the aforementioned drivetrain. It's a good idea to take a chain stretch gauge with you for an inspection. It's inexpensive and will tell you the condition of your current chain and whether it matches the seller's claims. When buying used bikes, always carefully inspect the sprockets. The wear of the sprockets is easy to assess visually. It's also worth checking for play in any bearings and for the straightness of the wheels. For hydraulic brakes, be sure to check for air pockets and the pads' good condition. For rim brakes, be sure to check the wear of the braking surface on the rim. A missing indicator or a noticeable depression is a bad sign.

Talk to the seller

This can really tell you a lot about a bike. Asking about specific components will test their knowledge, which is, after all, related to technical culture. It's a good idea to check the service history and find out how often wear-and-tear parts (chain, cassette, brake pads) were replaced. How was the bike washed and cleaned? A pressure washer can indicate water in the bearings and rust if it was used carelessly. A receipt of purchase is a good sign. Buying a stolen bike is not uncommon and can lead to many unpleasant experiences. Also, ask for the frame serial number and check popular stolen bike databases to see if your future bike is listed there. Comparing the bike's current specifications with the factory ones is also good practice. It's worth investigating the cause of any discrepancies. For older and less popular models, it's essential to ensure parts are readily available. Unusual wheel sizes , seatposts, hubs, or rare drivetrain components can be interesting, but when it comes to replacement, they can be a real pain. Headsets, especially integrated ones, are also a common problem.

Cheap used bikes

The main advantage of used bikes is their price, significantly lower than list prices, even for bikes in good condition. Many people, however, are looking for something very, very cheap. And the market responds – there's no shortage of offers up to 500 PLN. Two main factors can explain this price (besides obvious damage): quality or age. The first factor is the sheer number of bikes or rather bike-like products available from supermarkets. These are usually pseudo-mountain bikes with 26-inch wheels. Heavy, uncomfortable, and clunky. Furthermore, they're made of the worst materials, risking chain breakage or pedal loss. You can buy them cheaply, but don't expect them to be suitable for anything other than occasional short-distance commuting. Vintage bikes are a broad topic. There's also a huge price range, but we'll focus on the cheapest ones. These are primarily products from the 1980s, typically from the lower and mid-range (the better ones hold their value and become classics). These include all sorts of Peugeots, Romets, ZZRs, Batavuses, and Gazzels, usually made of steel. Many are road bikes, and more often, road bikes. They can be an interesting alternative to a "junk bike" you're not afraid to leave at work or in the shop. They'll certainly be more dynamic and better built than newer supermarket bikes. However, you have to be prepared for material fatigue and unusual component specifications. These bikes are certainly not maintenance-free.

Is it worth buying a used bike?

In short, yes. This doesn't make it any less challenging. You have to pluck the pearls (or at least the rhinestones) from a pool of dung. The arduous wait for "the one," searching through classifieds, and looking at bikes is a long process that requires experience. This makes buying a new bike seem incredibly convenient and simple. However, it usually means dropping down at least two price points. I think used bikes are a great idea for those with experience (or a trusted seller). The cheapest ones are also a good option if thefts are common in your area. However, if you don't have the technical knowledge or time for a long search, buying a new bike straight from a store is definitely safer. There, you can count on the seller's advice, trouble-free use, and a warranty. Main photo by infinity7664