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Sadly, many of us have been on the other side – having a bike stolen. I’d like to think that no-one bought my stolen bike having done some due diligence, but how do we even know what to look for when buying a second hand bike, to make sure we don’t get screwed over?!
How to Buy a Used Bike Safely: Your Checklist
Buying a second-hand bike can feel like navigating a minefield, but a few simple checks will save you from major headaches. Someone recently came to me asking for tips and whilst I had a few, I reached out to the community to see what else they could add.
Check It’s Not Stolen
Before you even think about pedals or paintwork, plug the frame number into BikeRegister (or your local equivalent). If it comes up flagged, walk away—fast. And if the seller can’t produce a purchase receipt, consider that another, potential, red flag.
I say potential because I personally don’t have receipts for my bikes having gotten them directly from Liv Cycling UK through my role as an ambassador but I can show a rich timeline on my social accounts of life with any bike I’ve ever owned.
Verify the Seller
If you’re shopping on Facebook Marketplace or Ebay, make sure to take a quick peek at their profile. Someone flogging half a dozen different bikes in one go is usually a dealer (or worse, moving on stolen stock).
The ideal seller lists one bike and can rattle off its backstory: when they bought it, how often it’s had a tune-up, and any crash scars it’s picked up along the way.
Ask About Service History and Crash Damage
A good seller will proudly recite service dates, show you stamped service book pages or invoices, and maybe even share a snap of that headset replacement. If they hesitate, mumble, or dodge the question, there’s probably something they don’t want you to see.
more on bike security and insurance:
Inspect Originality
Bikes are like people—you notice when parts don’t match. Make sure both wheels are the same make/model, and that components look consistent. Mismatched bits often mean corners were cut, and uneven wear can hide bigger issues.
I’d also double check that they’re including everything in the pictures, in the sale. They might be planning on swapping back the stock saddle for example, to don’t hesitate to ask the question.
Mind the Price
If the price looks suspiciously low, there’s usually a good reason: stolen, wrecked, or just plain knackered. If it’s on the high side, bookmark the listing and stalk it for a week or two—you might catch a price drop. A little patience can bag you a decent deal.
Ask Why They’re Selling
“Upgraded to carbon for racing” is a perfectly sensible answer. “Uh… reasons” is a total deal-breaker. A straight answer tells you they’re confident in both the bike and its condition.
Meet in a Safe, Public Spot
Dark alleys and sketchy car parks are a no-go. Opt for a busy café car park, a well-lit petrol station, or even your local police station’s “Safe Trading” zone. Stay sharp, keep your wits—and your wallet—on you.
I’d suggest maybe taking a friend with you too, for the extra peace of mind.
Trust Your Gut (But Verify with Your Eyes)
Last but not least, if something feels off, it probably is. Goto trust our senses, or women’s intuition (if you’re a woman lol)
Anything you’d add to this checklist?!
Elle
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