We get it: Buying a brand new bike might not always be within budget (though there are some really great ones out there for less than $1,000). If you have been itching to cop a new ride this spring—but don’t want to shell out a ton of dough—the next-best move may be to pick up a bike secondhand.

Thankfully, buying a used bike isn’t such an arduous task these days. Follow these tips to find the perfect used bike, give it a new home, and get the most bang for your buck in the process.



This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site.

[Find 52 weeks of tips and motivation, with space to fill in your mileage and favorite routes, with the Bicycling Training Journal.]

Narrow the Search

Whether you want a road, mountain, or commuter bike, identify three or four models that suit your needs. Make sure you know your size, then search cycling forums and sites like eBay and Craigslist. When you find a match, check its price on sites like Bicycle Blue Book to make sure you’re getting a fair deal. (Other websites you’ll want to browse are Pro Tested Gear and The Pro’s Closet.)



Scrutinize the Frame

Small chips and scrapes in the paint are usually okay, but avoid rusty frames and those with dents or cracks on the tubes, says Nick Martin, owner of The Pro’s Closet, which sells used cycling gear on eBay. Look closely underneath the bottom bracket and around the frame joints, where cracks are more likely to form.

Kick the Tires

Replacing wheels, a suspension fork, or a drivetrain can cost thousands, so make sure these critical parts are in top shape, says Barry Luck, director of Changing Gears, a used bicycle non-profit in California. If you’re not sure, take the bike to a shop for inspection or have a friend with a high bike IQ take a look.

3 Inexpensive Essentials For Your New Bike Track Your Rides Wahoo Elemnt Track speed, distance, and time then upload to Strava $100 | Competitive Cyclist Buy Now Adjustments On The Go Topeak Mini 10 It's easy to carry and has a tool to fix common issues $17 | Competitive Cyclist Buy Now Great for Midride Flats Park Tool Mini Pump Will fit in a jersey pocket or a bag to get you going again $20 | Competitive Cyclist Buy Now



Check Feedback

If you buy from eBay, make sure the seller has a return policy and a rating that’s at least 95 percent positive, Martin says. Sites like Craigslist are riskier because they don’t provide seller feedback, so it’s a good idea to buy locally and inspect the bike in person.

Add Final Touches

After finally getting your used bike, take it to a local shop for a tune-up. While there, pick up new tires and grips or bar tape to help make the old rig feel like new. If the bike fit isn’t perfect, consider swapping the handlebar and/or stem. Going with reasonably priced parts should cost less than $200—and could mean the difference between a deal and a dud.

Amazing E-Bikes for Everyone Everyday Commuter Benno

eJoy 9

Carries 88 pounds on the rear rack; lasts 80 miles.

$3,400 Full Review Singletrack Ripper Specialized

Turbo Levo

All the fun of a mountain bike—with a boost.

$5,600 Full Review

Midtail Errand Runner Felt

Tote’m

Has everything you need to ditch your car.

$4,000 Full Review Passengers Welcome Riese & Müller

Load Touring

Two batteries + 220-pound capacity = fun

$7,755

Full Review

This content is created and maintained by a third party, and imported onto this page to help users provide their email addresses. You may be able to find more information about this and similar content at piano.io