[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Thanks to the exceptional human invention of ‘bicycle’! They are fuel-free and external energy-free, at least. Bicycles, fortunately, do not have any negative impact on our environment, except for its operational costs of production.
A second-hand bike could be a great idea for all those kids who are beginning their ‘riding’ journey and for those parents who are on a tight budget to get new gear. On the other hand, it is quite tricky to spot a good used bike out in the market. Since the bike is already used by someone else, you may have to tone down on your high expectations, and perhaps, overall quality of the product as against a new one.
The developmental truth is – children outgrow bikes pretty fast. Indefinitely, it makes sense to buy second-hand bikes instead.
As for the used bikes, there is a great level of carefulness required before buying one. You need to ensure bikes are in good condition, safe and fully-functional before you pay for it. Let alone aspects such as fading colour or a few scratches here and there.
This article is aimed at guiding you on how to buy a second-hand bike for your kids.
When you consider buying a second-hand bicycle, try keeping the following hints in mind. They may come in handy at some point of your purchase cycle.
It is necessary to know exactly what you are looking for in the market. Are you looking for a bike to just hop on and go, or are you ready to spend money and time on the used one instead? There is a difference here. As for the second-hand bikes, there are possibilities for you to end up spending the same amount as the purchase price if you are not watchful in what you are getting into. Have clarity.
Look for a seller who is honest and accurate in his specifications of the used bike. The point here is for you to be aware of what you are considering to invest in. Don’t think too much to ask these questions (if required):
- Do you have the service details, purchase receipt or manuals to accompany the bike?
- How many owners did this bike have?
- When was the last time the bike was serviced?
- What is the bike needs replacing? Was there any wear on the tyres, gears or brakes?
A seller who is upright shouldn’t have a problem providing the details you ask for.
Beware of stolen bike sellers. If you are considering second-hand kids bike, then you could check for the serial number (found most oft on the bottom bracket of the frame) of the bike. Another way to verify is to look for tampering signs on the bike.
You may probably see scratches on the frame or damage on the tyres, gears and grips in a used bike. If you are not comfortable with it, you shouldn’t be going for it.
Specific Points of Investigation on a Second-hand Bike for Kids
- Run through the wheels and tyres. Bald and flat tyre(s) is a sure no-no! Tyres and wheels make up for the most important part of the bike. Thus, leave no stone unturned to completely scrutinize those two aspects, whatsoever. Ensure the wheels don’t wobble and spokes aren’t loose/broken. You deserve a huge discount if tyres and/or wheels are ‘bad’. Remember, this is only going to hike up the expense on your head to get new ones fixed.
- Say NO to a ‘rusty bike’. Arrest the rust if you find any on the chain, wheel, handle or elsewhere on the bike. This indicates poor maintenance and negligence of the owner towards their bike. Rusty nature of the bike could lead to more hidden issues, who knows?
- Are the brakes working well? If not, check if the brake pads are worn. Let your kid ride and check if they are working well.
- Check for the smooth spinning of pedals. If the pedals don’t spin properly or if it makes any kind of noise or rattle sound, then voice it out. These signs sure give away the negative condition of the bike.
- Watch out for the chain. If the bike’s chain is properly worn out, then there is no use of buying it. Also, make sure it isn’t too greasy.
- One way to make out if a bike has had a crash is to check if the frame is dented and if the forks are bent. If you see a dent or more, don’t hesitate to ask the seller about it. Also, ensure to see no other problem with the bike’s vital mechanisms other than the dent or bent.
Where to find a second-hand kids bike?
1. Find a seller within your circle of friends and family to see if anyone is willing to sell their kids bike or even willing to give it off for free(if you are lucky enough though). Some parents with older children offer to hand down their kids’ stuff, if their children have outgrown them and when they have no use of it anymore. So, why not?
2. Check out for local second-hand shops. They would have sales or discounts on second-hand bikes. If you find people who are willing to trade off or swap their bikes for something else, you could try that as well.
3. Post your need on Facebook or Whatsapp groups. See if you have someone who is selling off their used bikes. Get in touch, check for the pictures and rate etc.
4. Craigslist or other local classifieds are other options if you don’t find second-hand bicycles on eBay, Amazon or other online classified sites.
5. Join a local cycling community and post you need to buy a used kids bike.
Second-hand Bike for kids
Spotting a cheap and decent quality second-hand kids bike is not easy. But at the same time, it is available in plenty if only you put efforts in picking what is apt for your children. Hope this article was of benefit to you. We wish you get the best for your kids.
If you would like reading our other articles on Kids Bikes, visit the link below:
kidsbikesadvisor.com/[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]