Are you looking to sell your current bike? Impressions matter. Think about the state of your bike, the state of your listing and the state of your replies – all of this will make a difference to how much money you’ll be rolling in, to buy more cycling stuff, am I right?
We have shared tips for buying a used bike and what to look for in a second hand bike, and so if it’s you that’s doing the selling you’re going to want to be taking these points into consideration – you need to think like the buyer.
Many of us selling our current bikes are doing so because we have our eyes on a shiny new one. If you sell your bike for more, that leaves you with more cash for investing in one of the best road bikes – or buying upgrades for another one of your trusty steeds that are currently taking up space in what by now might as well be called a ‘bike shed‘.
Clean your bike
(Image credit: Getty Images / Johner Images)
Whilst it’s important to clean your bike after every ride to maximise the life of your components, after you get through the door it’s very easy to be distracted by thoughts of food and the bike gets forgotten about. You say you’ll do it after the next ride, but we all know what happens that next time…
Every time you put it off, your bike will become even harder to clean. It’s a vicious cycle.
But before you take the photos of your bike for the listing, a complete scrub down is an absolute must. Wash your bike so it looks like new – well, as close as possible to.
Fortunately, cleaning your bike properly can be done in just a handful of minutes once you have a clear idea of the procedure and the right equipment – the best bike cleaning kits can make this messy job quicker and simpler. Follow our step by step guide on how to effectively clean your bike here.
Neaten it up by replacing the finishing kit
(Image credit: Future)
After you’ve cleaned your bike you’ll be able to clearly see which parts of the bike are still looking a little less than perfect – typically this’ll likely include grubby and scuffed bar tape.
A fresh and neatly wrapped set of bars is perhaps one of the cheapest and most effective way to boost the desirability of your bike. The best handlebar tape can start from as little as $17 / £13, for Sram’s Supercork Bar Tape for example.
Service the components or replace
(Image credit: Future)
If/when any prospective…