| Buying a second hand bike doesn't have to be a | | | | seller ride the bicycle 20 miles a day to and from |
| stressful experience. It's a great way to save | | | | work, or only 5 miles once every three months? |
| money, enjoy the outdoors, and get some much | | | | When was the last time the previous owner replaced |
| needed exercise. That said, there are a few | | | | the chains and tires? Your objective with these |
| important factors to keep in mind. Below are three | | | | questions is to gauge the prior owner's maintenance |
| tips to help make buying second hand bikes as easy | | | | track record. If you're buying second hand bikes |
| an experience as possible. | | | | online, assuming you're dealing with a reputable seller, |
| First - and this can't be stressed enough - make sure | | | | these should be easy questions to have answered |
| you do your research on the seller. Buying from | | | | by email. |
| reputable sellers is extremely important when | | | | Lastly, think about type and brand before you begin |
| purchasing second hand bikes online. Try and gauge | | | | your search for the perfect second hand bike. Are |
| the seller's motivations for selling his or her bike. The | | | | you looking for a mountain bike or a beach cruiser? |
| objective here is to avoid purchasing stolen bicycles. | | | | Do you prefer a Trek or a Cannondale? Once you |
| If you're purchasing a second hand bike on an online | | | | get to look at second hand bikes online, you may |
| auction site, review the sellers ratings and feedback. | | | | find yourself overwhelmed with all the possibilities. |
| As a rule of thumb, look for sellers that have at least | | | | Consider visiting a local bike shop to get familiar with |
| 20 positive reviews, if not higher. Stolen second hand | | | | the different brands and styles. Once you know |
| bikes are even more common on Craigslist, so here | | | | what you want, get online and start hunting. |
| to be sure to do your research. Ask for papers and | | | | Do your research, use common sense, and have fun! |
| or sales receipts. | | | | Buying second hand bikes is a great way to get a |
| Second - consider the bicycle's wear and tear. Did the | | | | bargain. Ask the right questions and you'll be fine. |