Tips for Buying a Used Bike on Facebook Marketplace

Looking to score a great deal on a used bike? Buying second-hand is a smart way to save money, but you’ve got to know what to look for. Tony & I get to see lots of different bikes come through the Neutral Bay workshop requiring various fixes and dollars which could have been avoided if you had some knowledge on what to look for. Generally speaking always approach these “bargains” with hesitation, sometimes you are just buying someone else’s problem that they don’t want to spend the money on.

 Here are 10 simple tips to help you find a solid ride:

1. Inspect the Frame

• Look closely for any cracks, dents, or rust on bolts. Focus on areas where the tubes join together. If you see any big cracks, rounded and or heavily rusted bolts around the stem or serious damage, it’s probably best to walk away—repairing a broken frame is a hassle and often not worth it.

2. Check the Chain and Drivetrain

• A worn-out chain can be a sign of trouble. Check if it’s rusty or stretched out (you can tell if it sags or looks loose). Take a look at the gears too (those are the sprockets on the back wheel and the chainrings up front). If the teeth look sharp like shark fins, they’re worn down and more than likely need replacing. Is it thick of grease and not touched in many years

3. Spin the Wheels

• Lift the bike up and give each wheel a spin. They should turn smoothly without wobbling side to side. A slight wobble can be fixed, but if it’s all over the place, you might be looking at a costly wheel repair. Also, check the tyres for cracks or bald spots.

4. Test the Brakes

• Squeeze those brake levers hard! The bike should stop quickly and smoothly. If the brake pads look thin or the brakes feel soft and mushy, they might need adjusting or replacing. For bikes with disc brakes, make sure the rotors aren’t bent and the callipers are working together (watch the pad movement)

5. Check the Suspension (If It’s a Mountain Bike)

• Got a bike with suspension? Press down on the front forks and rear shock (if there’s one). They should compress and bounce back without making weird noises or leaking oil. Suspension repairs can get pricey, so make sure everything feels right.

6. Try Shifting Through the Gears

• Shift through all the gears while either pedaling on a test ride or spinning the cranks by hand. The bike should change gears smoothly without skipping or making loud clunks. If the shifting feels rough, the derailleur or shifters might need tuning. The cables, inners and outers might be rusted or in a state of decay which would effect the gear shifting also.

7. Check for Loose Parts

• Give the bike a quick shake! Wiggle the handlebars, crank arms, and wheels. If you hear rattling or feel a lot of play, it might mean the bearings are worn out. Repairs here can range from easy to costly, so keep that in mind.

8. Make Sure it Fits & the Frame is the Right Size – we see this often!!

• A bike that doesn’t fit well can make your rides uncomfortable (or even painful). Stand over the bike—there should be some clearance between you and the top bar. Also, hop on and see if you can reach the handlebars comfortably. If it feels too big or too small, it’s probably not the right bike for you.

9. Research the Bike Model

• Before you buy, do a quick Google search of the bike’s make and model. Check its original price and current value. This helps you avoid overpaying and gives you an idea if you’re getting a good deal. If the price seems suspiciously low, it could mean the bike has hidden issues or might even be stolen.

10. Ask Questions and Take a Test Ride

• Don’t be shy—ask the seller why they’re selling the bike, how old it is, and if any major repairs were done. Always take the bike for a spin to see how it feels. Pay attention to how it handles, brakes, and shifts. If it feels off, trust your gut!

Bonus Tips

• If Its been on a trainer: check around the headset, even under the bar tape for salt deposits which leads to corrosion on some components, rust around the levers, we see quite a lot of this as well.
• Check the Serial Number: Most bikes have a serial number stamped on the bottom of the frame. Look it up online to make sure it’s not stolen.
• Bring a Bike-Savvy Friend: If you’re unsure about anything, bring along a friend who knows bikes or ask the seller if you can bring the bike to a local shop for a quick inspection.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit. If you find any issues, use them to lower the price.

Buying a used bike can be a great way to get a quality ride without spending a fortune. Just follow these tips, and you’ll be pedaling away on your new (to you) bike in no time!