Thinking about buying a bike but not sure whether to go new or used? You’re not alone. In fact, searching “buy a used bike” is one of the most common queries among riders looking to save money and get rolling. Whether you’re commuting, exploring trails, or just trying something new, a second-hand bike can offer unbeatable value—if you know what to look for.

Let’s break it down simply and honestly.

In a word: yes! When you buy a used bike, you can save up to 30–70% off retail prices! That means more bike for your budget. And if you shop smart, you can get a quality ride that lasts for years.

What you’re really paying for in a new bike is box-fresh paint and a warranty. But many bikes depreciate fast, even when lightly used. With a bit of know-how, you can sidestep that price drop and scoop up a solid deal.

A good used bike should feel smooth, safe, and ready to ride. Here are key things to check:

• Frame condition — Look for cracks, dents, or rust. The frame is the backbone of the bike; damage here can mean serious safety issues or costly repairs. Aluminium and carbon frames, especially, shouldn’t have any cracks — it could compromise ride quality or even lead to failure.
• Wheels spin true — Spin each wheel and watch for wobble. A true (straight) wheel improves stability, braking, and overall handling. If it’s badly out of true, you might need a wheel rebuild or replacement, which adds unexpected cost.
• Drivetrain — This includes the chain, cassette, crankset, and derailleurs. Check that the gears shift smoothly and that the chain isn’t rusted or stretched. Worn drivetrains can cost £100+ to replace and often get overlooked by casual sellers.
• Brakes — Whether the bike has rim or disc brakes, they should feel responsive and stop the bike quickly. Spongy or sticky brakes can indicate air in the lines (for hydraulics) or worn pads/cables (for mechanical setups). Good brakes are non-negotiable — they’re your first line of safety.
• Suspension (if any) — Press down on the fork or rear shock. It should compress and rebound smoothly with no squeaks or oil leaks. Suspension parts are some of the most expensive to service. If it feels stiff, sticky, or leaks oil, walk away unless you’ve budgeted for a rebuild.

Doing these checks helps you avoid buying a money pit — and gives you more confidence when asking questions or negotiating with sellers. If you’re unsure, we will soon have a Bike Buyer’s Due Diligence Checklist you can use and share.

There are a few options, and each has its pros and cons. Here’s what makes them different:

• Facebook Marketplace & Gumtree — These platforms are easy and free to use, and you’ll find lots of local deals. But listings aren’t verified, and scams are common. If you’re not confident inspecting a bike in person, it’s easy to overpay or get burned.
• eBay — Offers a massive selection and access to sellers across the country. You can see seller ratings, which helps—but buyer protection only goes so far. Bidding wars can also inflate prices beyond what a bike is worth.
• Bike Shops — Usually the safest offline option. Reputable shops vet and service bikes before resale. You’ll likely pay a premium, but peace of mind and mechanical support are included.
• Shifta — This is where we flip the script. Every listing on Shifta is checked against fraud signals, sellers are rated by real buyers, and filters help you dial in by brand, size, and style. Plus, you can share listings and earn rewards—so even if you’re just browsing, you’re building value.

On Shifta, you can buy a used bike by searching by size, brand, type, price, and even earn rewards while you browse! It’s second-hand, made smarter.

The new bike market is at a 39 year low! This is since the 2020 boom of new bikes flooding the market during lockdown. There has steadily been a rise in used bike sales since that time, which demonstrates the opportunity for you to grab yourself a bargain when you’re thinking of making the investment to buy a used bike.