The task of buying a second-hand bike may be a little intimidating to people without much experience. How to spot a stolen product and avoid buying something dodgy? How can you ensure that you are not buying something that will soon need repairs and new parts or, even worse, has serious structural problems?

With a little information, it is possible to save a few pounds and grab a bargain though. We have 9 tips to help you out on this daunting task.

Avoid handling stolen goods
1) Ask the seller for the bike’s serial number. With this number, you can check the status of the bike in safety schemes such as the Bike Register or https://www.immobilise.com/. A reported stolen bicycle can be identified. Usually, the serial number is printed on the bicycle frame below the bottom bracket shell.

2) Avoid buying from markets infamous for selling stolen goods. You won’t be supporting an industry that could someday turn you into a victim.

3) If you smell something fishy, walk away. If you can post the information you have on groups of stolen bikes on the internet. Just make sure not to accuse anyone.

Be careful with structural issues
4) Inspect the frame in detail. All the rest can be replaced on a bicycle. Except for the frame. Rust, dents, cracks and broken parts could mean the end of the line for the frame. Remember to pay special attention to parts subject to more tension, such as the connections of the different tubes. Remember that a new paint can hide defects.

5) Make sure that the seat post can be removed, as well as the pedals. In extreme cases of rust, these parts can get seized in the frame and their removal gets nearly impossible.

6) Make sure you are buying an appropriated size frame. The options when buying something used decrease a lot. You can buy something heavier than you expected, with a color that is not your favorite or even a slightly different model than you planned and still live happily with it. But if you buy the wrong size frame, there is not much that can be done to repair this mistake.

Be aware of parts that might need replacing

7) Some parts of the bike need to be replaced more often than others. Tyres, brake shoes and chains wear out; brake and gear cables can seize up over time; rims and spokes need to be replaced. Check each of these components to see how soon they will have to be replaced.

8) Look at the wheels and the spokes. Turn the wheel and expect it to turn without wide lateral wobbles. Check if there are no missing spokes and whether or not they have similar tension. Spokes are like strings on a guitar: if you “play” them they will produce a sound. You want them to all sound quite the same.

9) It sounds obvious, but let’s remind you anyhow: go for a spin. 3 minutes around the block should be enough for you to try gears, breaks and frame fit.

Are those tips useful? Let us know on the box below. Also, share with us what your tips are.

Happy riding,