Second-hand bikes: where to find them?

If you are after a serious bargain, second-hand bikes are a great option.

• Many bike shops sell restored second-hand bikes. This is a great option as you can be sure that they are safe and functioning well.
• There are also specialist second-hand bike dealers which have a range of bikes in various stages of disarray and restoration. A good source if you after a specific model.
• Volunteer bike repair centres (such as CERES in Melbourne) have a constant stream of bikes, parts and accessories through their doors and can be a great place to pick up a bargain.
• Police auctions occasionally have high-end expensive bikes for a fraction of the retail price. The majority of the stock is kid’s bikes and old BMXs.
• Keep and eye out for garage sales and hard rubbish collections in you area. These are a great resource for cheap or free bikes and parts.

Online

eBay. The original and the best. Bargains galore, but make sure you know what you are getting. If possible, arrange with the seller to visit and ride the bike before you buy.

Gumtree. A buy-swap-and-sell site with loads of bikes. Again, see if you can try before you buy.

Trading Post. A wide variety of bikes, from kid’s BMXs to vintage classics ready to be turned into an urban singlespeed.

Craigslist. Enormous site with a moderate range of bikes.

Bike Exchange. Similar to Gumtree, this bike-specific site allows you to search for specific bikes or categories.

 

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