bike sale

Bike Sale - Key Points to Consider When Making a Purchase

Buying a used bicycle comes with several advantages but there are also several things to watch out for. With a little savvy, finding your dream bike is easily achievable. There are often top brands with great features available at affordable prices. Here, we outline good reasons why a second-hand bike might be the better choice and what to look for.

When Is the Best Time for Used Bicycles?

During the fall/winter season most manufacturers introduce new products into their lineup. This results in more discontinued models and surplus inventory hitting the market. The technology and aesthetics of bicycle components are constantly being improved for better performance.

As a result the used market often features high-quality items that may not even be particularly old, having only been on sale in the previous season. Ambitious athletes, in particular, eagerly await the release of the latest models in the current collection.

What's on Offer?

This means that you can frequently find top models from every brand that are in excellent condition. Some come with high-quality components such as Shimano gears, Schwalbe tires, or Bosch Powertube batteries. Other well-known brands include SRAM, DT Swiss, WTB, and Yamaha, among many others.

For accessories, clothing from brands like Jack Wolfskin or Adidas is also available. Additionally there are items like bicycle bags to ensure you have everything you need for your trekking tours.

Excellent deals on used bicycles are available in various categories: road bikes, triathlon bikes and even e-bikes. Within the realm of mountain bikes there are several categories including touring, cross-country and enduro, to name a few.

Reasons to Buy a Used Bicycle

1. Cost: The prices of second-hand bikes, whether for mountain biking or road cycling, are significantly lower than those of new bicycles. With a bit of luck you can find top brands like Santa Cruz and top models with a great price-to-performance ratio.

2. Sustainability: Once a neglected factor, environmental concerns are becoming increasingly important over time. Buying a used bike conserves resources and reduces CO2 emissions associated with production.

What to Watch Out for When Buying

• Price: A general rule of thumb is that a bicycle loses 20% of its value in the first year after purchase. One year later it's typically worth only half its original price and the price continues to halve every four years.

• Technology & Components: There are several aspects to consider here. Some of them include:

  • Is the frame, handlebar, or wheels still in the correct shape? 

  • Does the bicycle shift smoothly to the next gear? If the drivetrain doesn't work properly, it can quickly diminish the riding experience.

  • It's crucial to check the brakes for any issues such as locking or frayed cables. If you're dealing with an electronic shifting system you should verify its technical setup.

  • Scratches in the paint are usually tolerable but can be used as negotiation points. If the frame is damaged, especially in the case of carbon frames, caution is advised.

• Is the bike stolen property: When making a purchase it's best to make a contract that includes all seller and bicycle information. In many cases, sellers no longer have the original purchase receipt.

Road Bikes, E-Bikes or Mountain Bikes - What's Best for Me?

With so many options available, finding the right model can be challenging. The most crucial factor is getting the frame size right as this will ensure a comfortable ride. Riding becomes far less enjoyable if you experience back pain or if you can't pedal properly due to an incorrect frame size.

When buying from a private individual there are additional risks compared to purchasing from a certified dealer. These risks include discrepancies in the bike's description and condition as well as payment issues.

With some caution many pitfalls can be avoided, especially when purchasing in person. You can test ride the bike on-site and inspect it for defects. Afterward you can negotiate the price with the seller which is usually easier in a face-to-face setting.

Refurbished Bikes - Almost New Quality at the Best Prices

You can also find great deals on refurbished bikes which you can conveniently pick up directly from our shop in Munich. In addition to being environmentally friendly this also benefits the economy. Most of our bikes come from the local region, helping to stimulate local businesses.

All bicycles undergo a thorough inspection and refurbishment before being shipped. We offer a one-year warranty as well as buyer protection and a 14-day return policy.

At buycycle we are here to assist you in finding the perfect model, whether it's used or refurbished. For more details on brands and models you can also check out our blog or YouTube channel.