Used bicycles are a terrific alternative to new bicycles. You are getting more excellent value for your money, but you're also potentially preventing a bike from being relegated to the garage or, worse, being dumped in a landfill. 

Naturally, there are a variety of amazing discounts for potential second-hand consumers on the internet. However, it is home to a few individuals attempting to take advantage of you, so have your wits about you. 

Here are some of our recommendations for buying second-hand bicycles.

Get yourself ready for some upgrade.

Here's the thing about second-hand bikes: you need to do some upgrades that may require a few extra bucks.

You must first check your bicycle's basic mechanisms—the shifting gear, the handbrake, the chains, etc. 

After that, it's best to look for cycling accessories required by your cycling laws–such as bike lights. Most states and countries require a white front light and red rear light for major roads.

Go for trusted second-hand sellers or verified online portals.

Online platforms like eBay are a brilliant place to start when buying used bicycles. Accountability is established by requiring sellers to offer past buyers contact information or housing comments. 

Using well-known classified services helps fight internet fraud by allowing purchasers to meet before handing over any money. When meeting a stranger, select a safe location, especially if you're accepting cash.

Be very nit picky when checking for damages.

Check whether the bike has been neglected and damaged the frame. These are two vital things a buyer of a used bike can do. On the other hand, looking for these items may be complicated and intimidating, especially if you're new to buying used bikes or aren't an expert. 

It's crucial to start with the most expensive components and work your way down the bike to the less costly pieces.

Make sure it's the right size for you.

Another clear point to keep in mind is to make sure you're ordering the correct size. 

If possible, measure the frame size of a similar (or identical) type of bike before purchasing to ensure you're getting the correct frame size. Don't be swayed by a low price into buying a bicycle that's too big or too little for you.

If you can test drive it, that's ideal, but expect to be requested to leave your phone, wallet, or identification with the vendor.

Check if it's stolen.

Last but not least, check the legality of your second-hand bike.

It's possible that a deal that seems too good to be true is precisely that, and you're purchasing a stolen bike. Check to see if it's been tagged for security. 

Checking the frame number or BikeRegister ID's free BikeChecker tool on the BikeRegister database to ensure the bike is not classified as stolen is excellent. Alternatively, if the bike is relatively new, request any purchase documentation.

Buying a second-hand bike isn't always a bad idea. You need to be careful in doing it.