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The Used Kids’ Bike Checklist (a.k.a. How to Buy a Bike Without Regretting It Later)

Updated: Apr 2

Buying a used bike for your child can seem like a great idea. It’s eco-friendly, budget-conscious, and comes with that feel-good “I scored a deal” glow. But before you high-five yourself, let’s talk about what you should actually be checking before handing over your hard-earned cash for that pre-loved two-wheeler.


Safety First (No, Really, First)

Nothing kills the joy of a new-to-you bike faster than realizing it’s a death trap on wheels. So, before you commit:

  • Check the brakes. Squeeze the brake levers. Do they move smoothly, or do they feel like you’re squeezing a rock? Brake cables should be intact — not frayed — and the brake pads should have some actual life left in them.

  • Tire inspection. Worn-out tires are bad news, especially if they’re so bald they could double as a cue ball. Look for excessive wear, cracks, or evidence of past skidding contests.

  • Handlebar and fork stability. This one’s crucial. Squeeze the front brake to lock the front wheel, then gently push the bike back and forth while holding the handlebars. If you feel a knocking or rocking motion, that’s a red flag.

  • Handlebar grips. This is non-negotiable. If the ends of the handlebar grips are missing, you’re looking at a serious safety hazard. Exposed metal bar ends can be dangerous in a fall — avoid at all costs.



Not a bike GroBikes recommends!


Beyond Safety — The Ride Matters Too

Okay, so the bike isn’t actively trying to eject your child into the pavement. Great. Now let’s make sure it actually rides well:

  • Smooth pedaling. A bike shouldn’t feel like you’re churning butter when you pedal. If it does, something’s off.

  • Straight wheels. Spin the wheels — if they wobble or rub against the frame, that’s a problem.

  • Gears that actually work. If the bike has gears, test them. Do they shift smoothly, or do they feel like a stubborn old vending machine?

  • Adjustability. You’ll want to be able to adjust the seat height, so make sure bolts and quick-release levers aren’t rusted shut.


But There’s More (yes, seriously)

Even after all these checks, unless you moonlight as a bike mechanic, you should take the bike to your local shop for a tune-up. It’s worth the time and money to ensure it’s safe and rides well.


Sounds like a lot, right? That’s because it is. And this is exactly why every GroBikes trade-in gets fully cleaned and maintained before another child rides it. No guessing, no sketchy Facebook meetups, no unexpected repair bills. Just pick it up and go.


So if you're in the market for a used bike but would rather spend your time actually riding instead of inspecting, tuning, and fixing, maybe it’s time to subscribe to GroBikes instead.

 

Click here to learn about our bikes.

Click here to learn about why for kids bikes, subscribing is better than owning.

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