Cycling does not have to be expensive
A bike can be one of the cheaper ways to get around, but costs can climb if you buy things you do not need. The aim of this article is to help you start cheaply without cutting corners on the things that keep you safe. Prices vary widely by country and over time, so rather than quoting numbers we will focus on how to decide.
Buying a used bike carefully
A second-hand bike can be good value, and it avoids paying for the fast drop in value that new bikes often have. It also carries risks: hidden damage, stolen bikes and parts that are close to wearing out.
Choose the right size first. A bike that does not fit is not a bargain. Standing over the frame, you should have clear space between you and the top tube, and you should be able to reach the bars without stretching. Reading up on how to choose the right frame size before you shop helps you ask the right questions. If you can, test ride it.
Look for obvious damage. Check the frame and fork for cracks, deep dents or signs of repair, especially near joints. Look at the wheels spinning for wobble and at the tyres for cracks. Squeeze the brakes and see whether they grip and release smoothly. Check that the gears change without slipping. If you hear grinding, or if parts feel loose, factor in repair costs or walk away.
Check the chain and drivetrain. A worn chain, cassette and chainrings can be expensive to replace. Learning how chain wear shows up will help you judge a bike’s real condition.
Ask questions. How long has the seller had it? Why are they selling? Does it come with any paperwork or a receipt? A seller who cannot answer basic questions about a bike is a warning sign.
Be careful about stolen bikes. If the price seems too good to be true, or the seller is vague about where it came from, think twice. Local rules differ, and buying stolen goods can cause legal trouble. Meeting at a seller’s home rather than a car park is often a good sign. Some areas have community bike schemes or charity workshops that sell checked used bikes, which can be a safer starting point; look for one locally.
Budget for a service. Even a good used bike may need new cables, brake pads or tyres. Setting a little money aside for this makes the bike safer and avoids nasty surprises.
What is worth paying for
When money is tight, spend where it protects you.
A helmet. It is the first thing to buy. A good helmet fits snugly and sits level on your head. It does not have to be the most expensive one, but it should meet the safety standard used in your country and be in good condition. A helmet that has been in a crash should be replaced, and used helmets are best avoided because you cannot know their history. Choosing a helmet and bike helmet fit tips are worth reading before you buy.
Lights. If there is any chance you will ride at dusk, at dawn or at night, a front light and a rear light matter far more than most accessories. Even in daylight, a flashing rear light helps others see you. Look for lights that are bright enough for your conditions and that have a fitting that holds them firmly. Rechargeable lights can be cheaper over time than batteries, but check how long they last. See also notes on bike lights and riding after dark.
Good brakes. If a used bike has brakes that are weak or worn, budget to fix them. Brake pads are usually modest compared with other parts, and keeping an eye on brake pad wear is a cheap habit.
A lock. If you leave the bike anywhere, a decent lock is far cheaper than losing a bike. Use it every time and learn how to lock a bike securely.
What you can skip or delay
- Special clothing: ordinary comfortable clothes are fine for short, relaxed rides. Padded shorts and technical jackets can wait.
- Gadgets: a bike computer or fancy accessories are nice but optional, and your phone may do most of the job.
- Upgrades: lighter parts and carbon bits are not needed to enjoy riding.
- Special shoes and pedals: ordinary shoes work well on flat pedals for beginners.
DIY upkeep that saves money
A few basic jobs are within reach for most people, and they extend the life of a bike.
- Keep the tyres properly inflated, within the range printed on the sidewall.
- Wipe and lubricate the chain regularly. Chain cleaning is a good habit to learn early.
- Learn fixing a flat, since a puncture is the most common problem. A patch kit and a basic set of tools cost little.
- Check bolts and quick releases before riding, using the pre-ride bike check as a guide.
For anything you are unsure about, brakes, wheels that are out of true or a loose headset, pay a bike shop. A modest repair fee is better than risking a crash. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any part you do touch.
Saving on everyday running costs
Use the bike for short trips you would otherwise make by car or public transport, if it is safe and practical where you live. Store the bike indoors or somewhere dry to slow rust, and clean it after wet rides. Look out for community repair sessions, where volunteers sometimes help people learn simple repairs.
The best budget approach is steady and unglamorous: buy what is needed to ride safely, learn to look after it, and add extras only when you find you really need them.