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Buying a used bike: tips and tricks

Buying a used bike can be a great way to save money while still getting a quality bike. Whether you're looking for a traditional bike or an e-bike, there are some important things to consider to make sure you're getting a good deal.

Von Fabian Huber  |  4 minutes read time

Gebrauchtes Fahrrad kaufen: Tipps und Tricks
About the author Fabian Huber

Fabian founded MYVELO together with Vincent. The two share a long-standing passion for cycling. Together they have cycled thousands of kilometers and fought for victories in the German racing bike league. The idea of founding MYVELO arose from their many years of experience and knowledge of what makes a good bike. Find out more about MYVELO now

Published: September 7, 2024

Why buy a used bike?

There are many reasons why buying a used bike can make sense:

  1. Cost savings : Used bikes are often much cheaper than new ones. You can get a high-quality model for a fraction of the new price.
  2. Sustainability : Buying a used bike is more environmentally friendly as you contribute to reducing waste and extending the life of the bike.
  3. Value stability : Bicycles lose value quickly, especially in the first few years. A used bike has already experienced this loss in value, so you can resell it for a similar price.

Tip: How much is an e-bike worth after one year?

Where can you buy a used bike?

There are several places where you can look for a used bike:

  1. Online marketplaces : Platforms like eBay Kleinanzeigen, Quoka and Facebook Marketplace are great places to find used bikes. Here you will find a large selection and can often get good deals.
  2. Bicycle shops : Many bicycle shops also offer used bicycles. These have often been checked and serviced by professionals, so you can be sure that you are getting a functional bike.
  3. Flea markets and second-hand shops : Sometimes you can find used bikes at flea markets or second-hand shops. These can be particularly cheap, but often require a little more patience and skill when negotiating.
  4. Local classifieds and notices : Look for classifieds for used bicycles in local newspapers or on bulletin boards in supermarkets and universities.

Tips for buying a used bike

1. Determine your requirements

Before you start looking, think carefully about what you want to use the bike for. Do you need a city bike for your daily commute, a mountain bike for off-road adventures or a road bike for long distances? The more clearly you define your requirements, the easier the search will be.

2. Research the market value

It is important to know the market value of the type of bike you want in order to pay a fair price. Compare the prices of similar models on different platforms and familiarize yourself with the common prices.

3. Check the condition of the bike

When buying a used bike, condition is crucial. Here are some things to look out for:

  • Frame : Look for cracks, dents, or rust. The frame is the heart of the bike, and a damaged frame can be expensive to repair.
  • Wheels : Check the rims for cracks or dents and make sure the spokes are tight. The wheels should spin easily and straight.
  • Brakes : Test the brakes and make sure they are working effectively. Worn brake pads should be replaced.
  • Chain and sprockets : A worn chain or sprockets can affect the performance of the bike. Make sure the chain is well lubricated and the sprockets do not have worn teeth.
  • Bearings : Check the bearings on the wheels, bottom bracket and headset for play and smooth movement.
  • Shifting : Shifting should be clean and precise. Test all gears to make sure they shift smoothly.

4. Take a test drive

A test ride is essential to ensure the bike is comfortable and works well. Pay attention to how the bike handles, whether the gears work properly and whether the brakes are reliable. Listen for any unusual noises that could indicate problems.

5. Negotiate the price

Be prepared to negotiate the price. Most sellers expect this and often have a little wiggle room built in. Use your research into the market value and any defects on the bike as arguments to lower the price.

6. Check the papers and proof of ownership

Make sure the seller is actually the legal owner of the bike. Ask for the purchase receipt or other proof of ownership. This is especially important for more expensive models and e-bikes.

Special features when buying used e-bikes

E-bikes are a great option, especially if you want to cover longer distances or hilly terrain. However, there are a few additional things to consider when buying a used e-bike:

1. Battery

The battery is one of the most important and expensive parts of an e-bike. Make sure the battery is in good condition. Ask the seller about the remaining capacity and the number of charge cycles. An old or poorly maintained battery can be expensive to replace.

2nd engine

Check that the motor is working properly. Take a test ride and try different support modes. Listen for unusual noises or vibrations that could indicate problems.

3. Electronics and display

Check the display and controls. Make sure that all functions are working properly and no error messages are displayed. Check that the charger is present and working.

4. Software updates and service

Ask the seller if the e-bike has been regularly serviced and provided with the latest software updates. Well-maintained software can significantly improve the lifespan and performance of the e-bike.

5. Warranty and service history

Some e-bikes have a longer warranty on the motor and battery. Check if the warranty is still valid and whether the seller can show you the service history of the bike. Regular maintenance by a specialist dealer is a good sign of a well-maintained e-bike.

final thoughts

Buying a used bike or e-bike can be a great way to get a quality bike at a great price. With the right information and a little patience, you can find a great bike that fits your needs perfectly.

Pay attention to the condition of the bike, take a test ride and be prepared to negotiate the price. If you follow these tips, nothing will stand in the way of your new (used) bike adventure.

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