The demand for used bicycles increased during the corona virus crisis. Find out what you should consider when buying here.
- The demand for used bicycles has risen sharply in online portals such as eBay classified ads.
- This is also due to the Corona crisis, which is why many people want to avoid public transport.
- There are a few things to consider before buying a used bike.
Spring is here and the weather is ideal for cycling. This and the fact that many people are no longer using public transport due to the Corona crisis means that the demand for used bicycles is currently particularly high .
A press release from eBay Classifieds states that search queries are almost half higher than last year. According to this, around 300,000 used bikes are offered there. However, some things should be considered before buying. The General German Bicycle Club (ADFC) and the Berlin State Criminal Police Office have five helpful tips for buying a used bicycle.
1. Buy a used bike: is the bike still safe?
First of all, interested parties should make sure that the bike is still roadworthy and safe . Anyone who overlooks shortcomings here might be annoyed with the supposed bargain. You should definitely take a test drive. This way you not only recognize whether it is roadworthy, but whether it is generally suitable for you.
René Filippek from AFDC explains to eBay classified ads that the individual parts must be examined before buying . "If damaged or worn parts are not recognized, a repair can quickly exceed the purchase price," says Filippek. Therefore, interested parties, especially the brakes , bicycle chain , frame and handlebar should be checked for cracks, rust or other wear. A closer look at the tires is also recommended.
According to Filippek, typical weak points are also hubs and bottom brackets: "When checking bicycles, buyers should press the cranks and the wheels each across the bike and thus check whether there is play in the bearing. If there is a lot of jerking, a repair is due - and this is not Cheap,"
2. Check the frame number before buying
When buying a used bike *, it is also very important to check the frame number . This is usually located on the frame bar or under the bottom bracket. According to Michael Lisowski of the Berlin State Criminal Police Office, if it is not there, it means that it may have been removed on purpose. That would be an indication that it was stolen and it would be better not to buy it.
Asking the police to check the frame number would also not be worthwhile. Even if it has not yet been reported as stolen, you would still be liable as a buyer afterwards. The fact that the police have been asked to check them is not enough to secure them.
If you suspect that the bike on offer is a stolen bike , you should never buy it. Otherwise you are complicit in the stealing. The police should also be informed.
3. How expensive can a used bike be?
Many people prefer to buy a used bike because they are significantly cheaper than a brand new one. But the question is: what is a reasonable price for a used bike? According to ADFC, a bike could lose half of its original value in the first two years after purchase. Other factors include the brand, the condition and how large the current offer is. You can of course still negotiate before buying.
Also read: Tips for shopping in bike shops in Corona times .
4. Request a proof of purchase
To be on the safe side, interested parties can request proof of purchase of the bike. If the seller no longer has this, repair documents are also sufficient , should the frame number be noted on it. If there are no receipts, you should critically ask: When and where was the bike bought? How often has the owner driven it? Why is he selling the bike?
If the seller drops the price too quickly or makes contradicting statements, this is also an indication that it may be a stolen bike.
5. Conclude a purchase contract
If you are convinced of the bike and the seller proves to be trustworthy, you should nevertheless insist on a purchase contract before buying . The ADFC offers templates for this free of charge online for download. Before signing, make sure the seller is really who they say they are. Therefore, have your ID card or other document shown. Lisowski from the Berlin State Criminal Police Office warns that excuses like "I didn't have it with me" could also refer to possible fraud attempts.
Also interesting: StVO amendment 2020: These street signs are new to traffic from today .
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* tz.de is part of the nationwide Ippen-Digital editors network