the 4 best platforms to find your second-hand bike equipment of choice!

Ecological and economical, the second-hand market has never been so healthy and the cycle is no exception to this trend.

With expensive basic equipment, the second hand is theopportunity to live your passion without breaking the bank.

Consequences: platforms and ads are multiplying scams and profiteers too.

Here are some valuable tips for investing in used equipment.

#1 Buy on a specialized platform

Bicycle parts and accessories are technical equipment whose purchase should not be random.

Otherwise, you might encounter some mishaps on the road.

With the exception of clothing, it is therefore still advisable tobuy on a specialized platform.

Preferred by passionate cyclists, they make it possible to find products that are generally well maintained.

You’ll also have less difficulty getting help when in doubt.

Four second-hand platforms where to buy (almost) with your eyes closed

Barter Bike. The #1 platform for used cycles.

Both individuals and professionals offer hundreds of bicycle parts and accessories.

The payment is secure and the return policy is effective.

Ideal for buying with peace of mind.

Biked.

Created by Probikeshop, the platform brings together ads for spare parts and equipment (bikes and cyclists).

Free return within 48 hours and secure payment directly online.

Second Life Alltricks.

Offered by Alltricks, this site offers refurbished devices by the brand itself.

Each product has a two-year warranty.

Barooders.

The multisport site displays an interesting partnership with several brands of cycles.

The opportunity to take advantage of discount prices when the collections are destocked.

Other second-hand platforms such as Campsider, Linknsport, Sporteed and Sportydal are also references in this area.

#2 Check the photos carefully

As with any second-hand purchase online, pay attention to the quality of the photos.

Blurry or poorly framed shots can hide a major defect.

Likewise, beware of the catalog photos of the product in new condition.

Give preference to advertisements accompanied by clear, descriptive photos and showing potential points of wear or defects.

If in doubt, ask to see more shots before finalizing your purchase.

#3 Check the initial price of the equipment

When buying second-hand, don’t hesitate to do a quick search on the web. by simply typing the product reference in your search engine.

Of course, if the price offered is higher than new, go your way!

For the oldest models, ask the seller for details: exact reference, year of purchase, etc.

You should quickly be able to get an idea of ​​the initial price and judge the consistency of the proposed price.

#4 Opt for a secure payment service

The secure payment service may generate some additional costs.

However, whether you buy on a generalist or specialized site, it remains the best option, especially for expensive parts and equipment.

The advantage?

You will be debited only after receipt and validation of your package.

In the event of a problem, you can also return the item and benefit from an exchange or a refund (depending on the terms offered).

Essential to secure your purchase.

#5 Professionals or individuals: weigh the pros and cons of each type of seller

Today, many brands offer a “used”, “reconditioned” or “second-hand” tab on their site, when they do not post directly on second-hand platforms.

In particular, they sell old collections there: an opportunity to unearth small nuggets in new condition or verified by professionals.

The advantage: risk-free enjoyment of quality products.

Disadvantage : a displayed price often higher than individuals, who want to quickly get rid of their equipment that has become cumbersome. Up to you !

Investing in second-hand bicycle equipment: our advice product by product

Clothes

It is difficult to judge the condition of a garment on photos and even if it appears to be in good condition, it may have been poorly maintained.

Thus, a fabric washed regularly with a fabric softener at more than 40°C will tend to deteriorate more quickly.

The risk : a water-repellent jacket that’s more waterproof, gloves that no longer keep you warm or hardened foam padding.

For textiles, we therefore advise you to turn to advertisements for new products, never worn or declawed.

Helmet

Attention vigilance !

We do not joke with the helmet and its purchase must be the subject of caution.

Before buying :

Carefully compare the photos of the announcement with those of the official sites; Ask the seller for details on how it has been stored (preferably in a bag, protected from light); Check the date of manufacture of the model (a helmet has a lifespan of between 3 and 5 years). Equipment that has never been worn (wrong size, for example) can be acquired second-hand. However, the best thing is to go there to check its condition firsthand. If you are not reassured, turn to the destocking announcements.

The shoes

Shoes are more easily bought second-hand than clothes and helmets.

Good news when the price of a pair can exceed 400 €!

Before buying :

Check the condition of the points of wear: heels, outer and inner soles, toes of the shoes; Check the condition of the cleat fixing system; Check the proper functioning of the rod clamp.

Over time, leather cycling shoes tend to stretch.

Also, cutting edges vary from brand to brand. It is therefore best to try them out before making your purchase.

The tires

Tires can be purchased second-hand, provided they have been used little or have been stored in good conditions for less than five years (cool, away from light and humidity).

In particular, check that there are no cuts or marks on the tread.

You can also find good deals on unsold or destocked items from the major cycle brands.

The small parts

Pedals, handlebars, stem, etc. : the second hand is an opportunity to upgrade a machine without breaking the bank.

Be careful thoughbecause it remains difficult to judge the condition of a part on a photo.

Pay particular attention to the condition of the screws. Worn screw threads testify to repeated handling.

Also check the scratch lines on the carbon stems which can be weakened after a shock and break more easily.

We advise you to buy only parts that you know and after having established a good contact with the seller.

Otherwise, prefer small parts destocked by brands.

To conclude

With individuals and professionals alike, there is no shortage of good deals, provided you know how to do it.

Thanks to these few tips, you are well informed to equip yourself with peace of mind.

Take advantage of the second-hand boom to invest in equipment at bargain prices and upgrade your machine (and its rider) at unbeatable prices.

Your banker will be happy!

Updated by Quentin on: 05/07/2023

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