Sell a Used Bicycle or Kids Cycle Online: Size and Condition

If your child has outgrown a cycle or you no longer ride to work, the first question from a buyer is often about size. Put that answer near the top of your ad, alongside the condition, the pieces included and the pickup area. A picture of the whole cycle is useful. A close-up of the tyre marking tells the buyer something the full photo cannot.

Give the buyer two different size details#

Read the marking on the side of the tyre and photograph it. If the frame has a size label, show that separately. A 26-inch wheel does not tell someone how large the frame is. On an adult cycle, include the brand, model and frame size as marked. Say whether it is a single-speed commuter, geared bicycle, road cycle or mountain bike. If you cannot confirm the frame size, say so and offer a clear picture of the label or a measurement with its start and end points shown.

For a kids cycle, write the wheel size and say whether training wheels, pedals, a bell or a basket come with it. A parent can compare the manufacturer's height guidance for that model with their child's height. “My daughter rode it at seven” is useful background, but two children of the same age may need different cycles. Let the parent check fit and reach before making a decision.

Explain what you have actually checked#

Look for visible damage around the frame and fork, wear on the tyres, a loose saddle or handlebar, and anything you already know about the brakes, chain or gears. State when it was last ridden. Describe the issue in one sentence a buyer can use, such as “The rear tyre loses air overnight” or “The gears shift on a short ride, but the front brake needs attention.”

A cycle that has spent months in storage needs its own check. If the frame looks damaged, a wheel is loose, or braking feels unreliable, keep it off the road and ask a cycle shop to assess it. Describe the problem plainly if you list it for repair. Keep a recent service receipt handy if you have one. A receipt can explain what was done, while the buyer can still check how it rides today.

Show the cycle and the pieces that go with it#

Take both side views in daylight. Then show the size marking, tyres, brakes, chain and gears, and any bent guard, worn grip or scraped frame. For a kids cycle, photograph both training wheels and the fittings if they are included. If the lock stays with you, remove it for the picture or say it is excluded. Keep addresses, children's faces and school labels out of photos. The photo guide has tips for making small details visible.

Set the asking price and write the ad#

Compare used bicycles or kids cycles of a similar size, type and condition. Check the current new price for the same model if it is still sold. Allow for an immediate tyre, brake or chain repair where relevant. Other sellers' asking prices are reference points. A buyer will still consider fit, condition and the cost of collecting it.

Here is an example of what a useful ad might say: “20-inch single-speed kids cycle. Both training wheels and fittings included. Frame has a scrape near the stand, shown in the photo. Last ridden last week. Asking price and pickup area are in the ad.” Use your own observations, photos and numbers.

Plan the visit and pickup#

Agree on a daylight meeting with space to look at the cycle. A parent can check the child's fit and comfort in person. Allow a short test only where it is appropriate for the rider, the condition of the cycle and the setting. Agree who brings transport if the buyer cannot ride it home. Confirm what comes with the cycle and check payment in your own account before handing it over. Use the safe meeting guide if you need help planning the visit.

Post your cycle on Zutilo in English or Gujarati. Free posting is available within the current category allowance. Once it is collected, update the ad so people can see it is gone.