How To Shop For A Used Bike

Buying a used bike is a cost-effective way to get into cycling. But it can be hard to know what you’re getting into, and even harder to find the right bike for your needs.

The first step in finding the right bike for you is understanding what kind of riding you want to do. If you plan on doing mostly recreational riding, then there are many bikes that will work for you. If you plan on commuting or racing, then it’s best to find a more specialized bike.

What is a good price for a used bicycle?

As a general rule of thumb, you can get a really nice, long-lasting used bike in the $200 to $400 range. A brand new bike with similar build quality and features should run you around $500 to $900. Any less and you’re probably looking at a piece of junk.^[1]

Which is the best bike to buy second hand?

Bajaj Pulsar 150. It’s a publicly accepted fact that Bajaj Pulsar 150 is the country’s No. Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 350. Bajaj Discover 150. Bajaj Avenger 200. Hero Splendor iSmart. Yamaha YZF R15 S. Honda CB Shine 125cc 2012.^[2]

Where can I find a good second hand road bike?

Frame for cracks (rust or scuffs are usually surface deep and only affect aesthetic). Tyres are pumped. Chain and cassette aren’t rusted or stretched (these won’t cost much to replace if they are). Brakes work and the pads aren’t worn down. Shifting and gearing is effective.^[3]

How do you know if a bike is good?

Frame: Test ride the bike, the frame is heart of the ride. Suspension: On mountain bikes, suspension almost goes hand-in-hand with the frame. Wheels: Reliability and rotating mass are important. Contact points: Tyres, saddle, and handlebars.^[4]

Why are bicycles so expensive?

In the end, bicycles are so expensive because of a combination of materials, labor costs, supply and demand, R&D costs, marketing, shipping, profit margins, and even brand loyalty. All of these things come together to create the price we see today.^[5]

How much value does a bike lose?

Depreciation Schedule Road Bikes between $1,000 and $2,000. Zero to one year old, average depreciation of 23%. At two years old: expect between 22-28% depreciation from the purchase price. Three years old: expect 37% depreciation. Four years old: 40%.^[6]

Are expensive bikes worth it?

Overall, expensive bikes are lighter in weight, have greater steering stiffness, and the components used (brakes, tires, gears, pedals, etc.) are of better quality. Therefore, purchasing an expensive bicycle as a novice is not necessary. There are perfectly suitable bicycles for under $1000.^[7]

What is a good mileage for a used motorcycle?

For small sports bikes, 20,000 to 30,000 is on the high side. For larger bikes, 50,000 miles and up is considered high motorcycle mileage. But before you write off any models, consider that a properly maintained bike can last well past 100,000 miles!^[8]

How many km is good for a used bike?

It completely depends upon the bike model, year of purchase and its maintenance. For some bikes 200K Kms is not much and for some even 50K Kms is too much. If someone rides high or uses it too much, 30K-40K Kms is sufficient, but for someone who does not ride high, 100K Kms is perfect.^[9]

Which bike company has best resale value?

Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 350:. Hero Splendor Plus:. Honda CB Unicorn 150:. Hero Passion Pro i3S:. TVS Star City Plus:. Royal Enfield Classic 500:. Honda CB Shine 125cc 2012:.^[10]

What questions should I ask when buying a motorcycle?

How has the motorcycle been maintained? What’s the VIN? How have you found the motorcycle to ride? How long have you owned the motorcycle? Have you ever crashed the motorcycle? Are any extras included? What aftermarket parts have been added? What’s the mileage?^[11]

What should I look for in a road bike?

Very lightweight frame, wheels and components. A drop (curled) handlebar, though some have a flat bar like a mountain bike. Narrow wheels and tires. A composite (carbon fiber) front fork. No front or rear suspension. Men’s and women’s styles and a wide range of sizes.^[12]