Buzz
1. Why Choose a Used Bike
The sport of cycling is increasingly popular not only among the youth but also among adults. Now you can easily spot people over 40 or 50 in tight-fitting gear riding expensive sports bikes on the streets, or young folks cycling around West Lake or Hoan Kiem Lake for exercise. However, not everyone can afford a high-end sports bike. Although there are many new sports bike models on the market with prices starting from 3 million dong, to truly appreciate this sport, you need models costing tens of millions of dong or more. Hence, people seek out used bikes.
There are various types of used bikes. Some may be from individuals who bought new bikes but after a while, they either didn't like the bike or were too busy to ride, so they sell it, usually referred to as second-hand sales. Such bikes are often in good condition as the previous owners used them sparingly. The second form is purchasing from stores selling used bikes. Store owners import bikes from developed countries like Japan, China, the USA... each time bringing in hundreds of bikes, known as yard bikes. The advantage is that the prices are usually cheaper than second-hand sales. The downside of these bikes is that the quality is not consistent as the importers do not thoroughly inspect each bike upon importation.
Summarizing the Pros and Cons of Buying Used Bikes:
Advantages
- Affordable price, you spend less money but still have the opportunity to own a high-quality bike.
Disadvantages
- Limited options in terms of models because some models are not available in the used bike market. Usually, these are models that have been introduced several years ago.
- Requires knowledge in selecting used bikes to avoid purchasing a defective bike, leading to financial loss.
- Requires knowledge in repairing and operating bikes to prevent issues during operation.
2. Tips for Choosing Various Types of Sports Bikes When Buying Used Bikes
- Choose the sports bike model you like. Whether you prefer MTB mountain bikes, Road bikes, Touring bikes, Folding bikes... Even when buying used bikes, you will be with it for the long term, so make sure you love the bike.
- Check the bike frame. The bike frame is like the backbone of a human, one of the most expensive components of the bike. Check if the size fits you well, if not, riding will be uncomfortable, leading to injuries like back pain, knee pain. Choose from sizes S, M, L. A tip is to have the saddle at hip height when you stand with the bike frame between your legs, you can sit on it to see if it's comfortable. Arms should not be too stretched out, as it will cause back pain, abdominal pain.
- Carefully inspect the frame for cracks. If there are cracks, it indicates that the bike may have been in an accident. You should reconsider buying that bike. Pay attention to the lowest point, closest to the road surface of the bike frame.
- Check if the wheels are warped. Spin the wheels, if they wobble, they may be bent. Meanwhile, listen for any unusual sounds from the bearings, if the wheels spin smoothly, it's good.
- Check if the brakes are worn out, if they bite properly.
- Check if the front and rear derailleurs are straight, if the gears are excessively worn.
- Check if the cassette is scratched, if the gear shifting is smooth.
- Check if the pedals are warped, if they are secure.
- You should ask the seller how long they have been using the bike, and why they are selling it.
- You should request a test ride to assess the actual performance, a meeting at the park is most reasonable.
3. Conclusion
These were the tips I compiled when buying a used sports bike. Be very careful when making your decision as you could easily lose money. Choose reputable bike shops or buy from acquaintances for more peace of mind when buying a used bike. Wishing you all success.
