A bike that has been standing in the shed for a couple of years may be exactly what someone else is looking for. Selling it is better than leaving it to rust, and it gives the bike a second life. But a bike sells more easily, and with less trouble, when it has been cleaned, checked and described honestly. A little preparation is well worth the time.
Begin with a thorough clean. Wash the frame, wipe the chain, and polish the saddle and handlebars. A clean bike is much easier to assess, and it shows a buyer that you have looked after it. Pump up the tyres, oil the chain, and check that the brakes, gears and lights work. Small repairs that you can do yourself, such as tightening a loose bolt, make a good impression.
Photographs and description
Take photographs in daylight, against a plain background, from both sides and from the front. Add a close view of the gears, the tyres and any marks or scratches. Do not hide the faults; it is much better for the buyer to see them beforehand. When you write the description, say what kind of bike it is, how it has been used and what has been changed or replaced.
Be honest about the condition. If the brakes are worn or the saddle is torn, say so. A buyer who knows about a problem will not be disappointed, and you will avoid disputes afterwards. Remove any personal items such as bags, stickers or the lock, and keep the spare key handy so that you can hand it over.
Meet buyers in daylight, preferably at home with someone else present, or in a public place. Let them have a short test ride nearby, and stay close by. Do not feel obliged to accept the first offer, and do not hand over the bike until you are sure the payment is complete. If something feels wrong, you are free to say no and walk away.
When the bike goes, give the new owner a few tips: how to look after the chain, how the gears behave and where the tyres tend to lose air. Knowing that the bike has gone to someone who will enjoy it is a satisfying moment.
