Used Bikes – Buying Bicycles on eBay & Craigslist

Used bikes are the way to go for cyclists on a budget, or for the person who is new to cycling. Buying a good used bike will save you money, but there are a few things you need to know beforehand when looking for that used gem.

Finding Used Bikes in Your Frame Size

You’ll find lots of good bikes on Craigslist and eBay, but there’s a bit of information you’ll need before shopping. Namely, your frame size. It won’t do any good to buy a bike that’s too big or too small for you to ride. You won’t enjoy riding, so consequently the bike will just take up room in the garage.

Go to my article on road bike sizing to determine your correct frame size. Frequently you’ll find a bike for sale, but there’s no frame size information given. You can measure the frame yourself. Go to my article that tells how to measure a bicycle frame.

Finding Bikes on eBay

eBay is a good source for used bikes. There’s a large variety and selection of bicycles available. Ideally you’ll find a bike, or several bikes, you’re interested in that have lots of pictures in the ad and a good, informative description. If you find a bike on eBay that suits your fancy, but the description is weak or there’s not enough pictures, you can ask the seller to provide the missing information. Most sellers will be more than happy to provide additional information.

If you find a bike you’re interested in, be sure you understand all the details involved with the sale. For instance, if the buyer pays for shipping, you’ll want to know how much the seller is charging, since shipping charges may be a deal-breaker.

Bicycles For Sale on Craigslist

Craigslist is my go-to source for finding used bicycles. I’ve bought bicycles from Craigslist listings, and I frequently look at the bikes for sale on Craigslist when I have spare time. I enjoy fixing up classic bikes, like my classic Schwinn bike rebuild, and Craigslist has a wide variety of classic bikes available. What I like the most about buying on Craigslist is being able to see the bike before buying.

Other Sources for Bicycles

Garage and Yard Sales:If you like browsing garage sales this could be a good source for you. Take a tape measure along to check the frame size. Typically sellers at garage and yard sales won’t know frame sizes or how to measure a bike.

Newspaper Classifieds and Nickel Ad Flyers:You can find bicycles listed in newspaper classifieds and nickel ad flyers.

Bicycles with For Sale Signs: Occasionally you’ll see bikes in a yard or driveway with a for sale or free sign hanging from them. They’re always worth a look when you’re in the market for a bicycle.

These sources are ideal whether you’re looking for a classic bike or just want an inexpensive bike to ride. In the used marketplace you’ll find a wide range of bikes to suit your fancy.