Summertime is officially in full swing! Woo-hoo!! The South Georgia in me loves this time of year. There’s lots of sunshine, super long days and all kinds of local events on the calendar. Folks… start enjoying your town and really take on everything summertime has to offer by buying a vintage bicycle, otherwise known as a used or second-hand bike.
Regardless of whether you live in a small town with one red light, or one of the largest metro areas in the US, nothing beats exploring your town and all it has to offer on a vintage bicycle!!!
It doesn’t have to be fancy or perfect, after all a scratch or two isn’t a bad thing. The great thing about buying a used bike is the cost. New bikes can range from $400-$1200, and there are some super amazing deals on used vintage bicycles for around $100.00, folks.
And I gotta be honest… if you just wanna mess around at the park or go on short ride to meet friends for a late breakfast, why spend all that money on new when you can ride around in style or on a vintage bike for way less? Really look into buying something that suits your individual style. Bikes come in all different shapes and sizes.
Here is my how-to guide for buying a Vintage bicycle, and 5 must have accessories that help you customize your bike and make it completely yours!
1) Sources to buy a used bike:
Personally I favor 2 online resources, not that there aren’t others, but these are my favorites. One is Craigslist and the second is Offerup. Both are online sources that allow you to search in your nearby area for products in your price range.
2) Bike Frames:
Next, you need to know the size of the frame to fit your body. Bikes come in different frame sizes that vary to a person’s height. I’m 5’6 and need a woman’s small bike frame. If the frame is too large you can’t lower the seat enough to push the pedals. Guys, this is an important step!! You need to know what your frame size is before you start looking for bike sizes online.
Here is a great link from bicycling.com that will help you understand what frame size you need to be looking for!!
3) Negotiating Cost:
First step is to reach out to the sellers of the bikes you’re interested in. Do not pay the asking price. Do a little research on the sampling of bikes you’re interested in to see what the cost of the bikes should be. Then message the seller and make a respectable counteroffer. They may decline the offer or come back with a counteroffer. Finally, let the negotiations begin. Just a reminder to keep your personal info limited during communication. Keep in mind the purpose of buying a used bike is to experiment with what you like, and how much you will actually ride the bike, with little financial commitment.
4) Go on a Test Ride:
If you and the seller come to terms on a price, now it’s time to go see the actual bike.
Be sure you meet in a public location where you could actually ride the bike. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes you can bike in.
I recommend a busy cafe, public space, or even a police station, which are all great locations to meet your potential buyer. Preferably bring someone with you, but, at the very least, bring your cellphone and let a close friend or family member know when and where you’re going.
Insist on riding the bike folks!! Ask the seller to be sure the tires are inflated before hand. If the tires are flat or there is no seat (a clue the bike maybe stolen), personally I would pass on this bike. You truly need to be able ride the bike to assess its value.
5 items to check on the bike:
- Tires
- Brakes
- Rust. Inspect the frame of the bike.
- Seat
- Smooth Gear shifting
5) Final step:
If you still feel satisfied that you’re getting a deal, pay the price earlier agreed upon. Otherwise renegotiate based on the info from your test ride. Take the bike with you that day, but before you leave, ask if someone local has been servicing the bike. It’s always good to know the history of the bike.
Here are my top 5 favorite accessories to customize your vintage bike – and not break the bank!!!
Links are attached below the photos if you want more details!!!
1) Minimalistic front or rear mounted basket. $70.00
I LOVE the look of this basket! The clean design works with any bike style.
2) Natural Cork handlebar tape, available in 2 gorgeous weather resistant colors. $13.98
3) Seat mounted bottle opener by Chromoly, available in 6 different metal finishes. $39.00
4) Handmade Wicker cup holder for the handlebars. $46.61
How perfect is this for early morning coffee runs?
5) Leather/brass carrying strap. $25.00.
Trust me… this is a game changer when you’re trying to carry your bike up stairs!!!
Y’all get your butts outside and enjoy every bit of this gorgeous Summer weather! Send me pics of you on your vintage bike!! I wanna hear all about it!
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