Bikechain

Bikechain's guide to buying a quality used bike

Where to go for a quality used bike

Below are some shops that sell used bikes, and of course make sure to

take it for a test ride. This is a very important step.

There are other shops that sell used bikes in Toronto. Some (but not all) of these shops can be somewhat shady, both in means of acquisition and safety standards. This is not the case with all used bike shops, and we apologize for any omission. If you know of a shop that is reputable, please inform us and we'll happily recommend it!

Craigslist is an option, but is not a reliable one. You have little recourse is you end up buying something that turns out to be total garbage. If you do buy a bike from Craigslist, make sure that it receives a check-over by a competent mechanic before you ride it around lots.

We strongly recommend buying a quality name brand lock for your new bicycle. While no lock is thief-proof, a a decent U-lock will significantly reduce the chance of your bike disappearing. Always lock it up, and register your bike with the Toronto Police. If you have questions or concerns, learn more about bike security by speaking with us or the shop you are buying from.  Paying $50 or $100 for a quality U-lock may seem like a lot of money, but settling on a $20 lock might mean buying a bike sooner than you think.

What to look for:

If you can avoid it, do not buy newer Supercycles, Triumph, or CCMs.or other department store bikes. Older bikes from these brands are okay, but the new ones are not of good quality. They are often not worth the money paid even when they are brand new. If you have a limited budget, consider a used bike instead of a cheaper new bike.

Frame:

No bends, big dents, or cracks. Look at the drop-outs (where the wheels attach to the frame) in particular. Examine where tubes meet on the frame for cracks in the paint or discolouration, this can indicate frame damage. Ask to see the seatpost height adjusted to make sure it is not rusted stuck within the frame. Ask for the stem (connects the handlebars to the bike frame) to be moved as well, to make sure it isn’t rusted stuck as well.

Wheels:

Pick up the front end and spin the front wheel. It should be fairly straight. Do the same with the back wheel. Squeeze the spoke to check for broken or loose spokes. Inspect the tires for big cracks or holes. Small cracks and cuts are normal in wear and tear, but you may wish to replace the tires.

Cables & Housing:

Inspect the housing to look for cracks or splits. Try squeezing the brakes and shifting the gears to see if the cables move through the housing smoothly.

Take it for a test ride!

The frame should be an appropriate size for you. You should be able to extend your leg fully while pedaling. If you are struggling to reach the pedals or your knees stay bent during the entire pedal rotation, the frame is likely the wrong size for you.

Consider the price:

While someone might be able to get a gem of a bike for very little money, this isn't often the case, especially if you're not sure what makes a bike a gem. Be realistic about what your budget will get you and shop around to consider your options. A bike is a vehicle, and you are trusting your life to it. Be an informed consumer and spend wisely.