Should I buy a new or used bike?

May 15, 2024 8 min

New bike or used bike? I do not know about you, but shopping for my next bike is among my all-time favorite ways to procrastinate.

Once you get past the ‘just browsing’ phase and are stoked to finally make the purchase, it can sometimes be hard to know whether you should buy a brand-new bike or bring home a previously owned one.

But do not worry! In this guide, we will discuss the pros and cons of each option so that you can make an informed decision about which option will work best for you. So, let’s get started and examine whether you should buy a new or used bike.

buy a new or used bike? — There is now a vast, easy-to-access range of used bikes online

Why should I buy a used bike?

Used bikes are an excellent way to get started as a cyclist, whether you are looking for a daily commuter, your first road bike or a beginner mountain bike. Buying used has many advantages, especially if you are new to the world of cycling. However, even experienced cyclists should consider a used bike as their next bicycle.

Advantages of a used bike

Lower costs: As the bike industry becomes increasingly expensive, buying a pre-owned bike can save you some money. Buying a bike can be a big financial decision, and buying pre-owned can ease some of the pressure of bike buying.
Environmentally friendly: By buying a pre-owned bike, you are giving a bike that’s no longer being used a second chance at life and potentially saving it from the landfill. So, if being green is at the top of your mind, consider buying a used bike instead of going straight to the bike shop.
More selection: While this might seem counterintuitive (surely, there are more new bikes out there?), buying a used bike means finding models and even brands that no longer exist. It can be a great way to find hidden gems.

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We have a huge selection of gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and road bikes ready for purchase on our shop.

Disadvantages of a used bike

More research: Buying a used bike means you will be responsible for answering all your questions. Of course, you should be doing your own research if you are buying a new or used bike, but with a used bike, there’s no helpful local bike store to walk you through what you need to know. Luckily, we are here to help you through the process and tell you what to look for when buying used.
Less size options: While you might have more brand and model choices when buying a used bike, you can be limited by the size available.

Why should I consider buying a used bike?

Many people jump straight to a new bike when they are thinking about their next purchase, but you should take a moment to consider a used bike instead.

Yes, you may have to spend more time looking for the perfect bike, but ultimately, you will come away from the process with more knowledge about bikes and a bike that you have chosen for yourself, not one that you’ve been sold.

In 2024, does it still make sense to buy a new bike?

new or used bike? — Dreaming of a brand-new bike? It's not always the best plan.

New bikes are often considered the default option when bike shopping and you can see why. The bike industry moves quickly, and it is easy to get caught up in the excitement surrounding the latest tech and frame innovations, like the latest Rose Backroad FF. But with the bike industry getting more and more expensive, do you really need the latest technology devised to help some highly skinny dudes win the Tour de France?

Advantages of buying a new bike

Newer technology: If you are looking for a gravel bike with suspension, a road bike that’ll run wider tires or a mountain bike with snappy electronic shifting, those new trends can be harder to find second-hand.
More sizing and fit options: When buying a new bike, bike shops often keep multiple sizes of each model in stock, making it easier for you to get the size and model that you are looking for.

"Many local bike shops also offer fitting services to make sure that your brand-new bike fits you perfectly. Of course, this can be done with a used bike as well, but an independent fitting session can cost you more money." - Anja Benson @buycycle

Disadvantages of a new bike

Higher costs: Of course, the main disadvantage of buying a brand-new bike is the cost. New bikes are expensive! Bike prices have risen over the past few years, and buying a bike from a local bike shop can add to the cost because of the higher margins.
No eco-friendly: A new bike contributes to environmental harm through its manufacturing process, which consumes resources, emits carbon, and generates waste.
The endless delivery times: The most popular models are often out of stock, and it is quite common to wait weeks or even months before finally receiving the new bike of your dreams.
Return policies: Many bike shops do not allow returns on new bikes. Of course, independent sellers of used bikes often do not offer returns either, but buying from an online used bike seller like buycycle means the option is available to you if you need it.

When should I buy a new bike?

Are there cases where buying a new bike is the best option? Of course! If you have your heart set on a particular model you cannot find used, then buying that new model may be the way you want to go. Additionally, specific sizes, like xxs or xxl bikes, can be challenging to find and use. If you cannot find a used bike in your size, it may be easier to source one from a bike shop.

Things to consider when buying a used bike

new bike or pre owned bike? — With buycycle, the shipping of used bikes is protected by the buyer cover

As we’ve briefly mentioned, there are several things to consider when buying a used bike. You will want to do a good amount of research before deciding. Luckily, if you read this guide, you are already on the right track! Make sure to check out our other guides on what style of bike you should be looking at to make an informed decision.

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Finding the perfect fit: sizing your bike correctly

You will also want to find the right size bike for you. This can easily be achieved with two measurements: height and the length of your inseam. Once you have those two numbers, you can cross-reference them with the sizing chart for the model you are looking at to ensure your new bike will fit perfectly. Look at our bike wheel size charts to learn more about sizing.

Buying a used bike with buycycle

Buying a used bike with buycycle makes the process quick and easy. You can choose from a large selection of every style of bike you could imagine, and our three levels of service ensure that your pre-owned bike will arrive looking and feeling brand new.

"While buying used from an independent seller can come with risks, buycycle eliminates those risks from the buying process." - Alice Huot @buycycle

We verify all our sellers so buyers are safe from scams, and your money is safe with us until you’ve gotten your new bike. Do not worry; your bike is fully insured while in transit.

Browse bikes for sale on buycycle

new bike or used bike — New or pre-owned, we wish you a lot of fun with your new bike!

So, will you buy a new or a used bike?

In short, it’s time to get hyped about your next bike… Before jumping straight into your local bike shop, consider buying a used one instead! Not only will it save you some money (or maybe a lot), but you will also be giving a new home to a bike that may have otherwise ended up as a pile of rust in a landfill. Now, get back to work!

Have a look at our site!

Which bike is for you?

Buying guide

Brands guide

Where to buy a bike?

Sizing guide