Home dealers push second hand bike prices up
04-17-20, 04:49 AM
#51
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04-17-20, 05:56 AM
#53
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04-17-20, 06:34 AM
#54
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Intervention? Really? If a flipper adds real value (washes and waxes the frame, does minor de-rusting, bearing overhauls, trues the wheels, smooths rim dents, ensures sound braking, new tires/tubes) and sets pricing to contain those efforts, then there is no robbery or price gouging - tangible value is added. It's not illegal or underhanded to collect a used bike in the rural towns (barn finds), refurbish it, and sell it to a college student (well, we don't have those in-town so much any more) for less than half the price of a decent utility bike at the LBS. Competing with these better ones were some LBSs who did not deliver a sound, serviceable bike.
04-17-20, 06:56 AM
#55
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Buying something and then selling it for more money.
Pretty sneaky. Thank goodness we don’t have businesses set up around this model.
Pretty sneaky. Thank goodness we don’t have businesses set up around this model.
04-17-20, 07:25 AM
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04-17-20, 08:16 AM
#58
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04-17-20, 08:45 AM
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Yes, the rules you agreed to when signing up for the forum. Big surprise. It would be great if we could stop this line of discussion. We do have rules, we do enforce them. Most people don't have any problem staying within the rules and never find out about us enforcing them.
Just checked the local craigslist, if there are any flippers they are real bottom feeders. Not much other than junk. One very small Centurion Ironman, which is a reasonably good bike. But I'm pretty sure that's from the original owner.
Just checked the local craigslist, if there are any flippers they are real bottom feeders. Not much other than junk. One very small Centurion Ironman, which is a reasonably good bike. But I'm pretty sure that's from the original owner.
04-17-20, 08:53 AM
#60
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I actually agree with this but it seems like today that depends on the rules in question. If someone decided to make a pro-free speech forum with minimal moderation and a clear warning that anyone who decides to use it risks being offended, it would probably be taken down for promoting hate speech. What happens to "their forum, their rules" then?
04-17-20, 11:35 AM
#61
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Don't worry, that has been tried and they all end up dominated by hate speech. And they have a real hard time finding hosting.
04-17-20, 01:10 PM
#62
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Not that I worry per se, I was just pointing out that that argument seems really one sided. Any further discussion of this is pointless anyway because it's not like I'm out to break the rules or to encourage doing so.I think they protect orderly discussion on the forum for the most part. I read through the guidelines and my only criticism is that they sound as if they were written by my boss or the HR department at work. We don't have to be here you know? Everyone that attends the forum does so out of their own courtesy and free time. A little more courtesy on their part would be nice. I would prefer if mutual respect was asked and not demanded of me.
04-17-20, 02:10 PM
#63
Senior Member
I want to explain this, so some of those buying a second hand bike for the first time, understand that the prices the are asking are higher than they would be if you were buying from a genuine private seller. In some places they have a monopoly on the market, so all second hand bikes are expensive. Some people don't know how much is reasonable for second hand bikes.
04-17-20, 02:23 PM
#64
Junior Member
There are some people, often pensioners, who like to make a little extra money to supplement their pension. Some of these deal in second hand bikes. They read the local for sale pages often. When they see a bike cheap, they quickly pick it up. Some even get bikes from the trash. On some bikes they may swap parts. They then sell these bikes at higher prices.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
In places where you don't have these home dealers, you can find cheap bikes. Where you have these home dealers, second hand bikes are expensive.
Other home dealers do this with computers. In some places, it is impossible to buy a second hand computer at a reasonable price. Only those with little understanding of computers buy them.
Some car dealers also snap up cheap second hand cars for sale privately. Some also sell the worst cars from home, not at the dealership.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
In places where you don't have these home dealers, you can find cheap bikes. Where you have these home dealers, second hand bikes are expensive.
Other home dealers do this with computers. In some places, it is impossible to buy a second hand computer at a reasonable price. Only those with little understanding of computers buy them.
Some car dealers also snap up cheap second hand cars for sale privately. Some also sell the worst cars from home, not at the dealership.
04-20-20, 11:23 AM
#65
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So?
There are some people, often pensioners, who like to make a little extra money to supplement their pension. Some of these deal in second hand bikes. They read the local for sale pages often. When they see a bike cheap, they quickly pick it up. Some even get bikes from the trash. On some bikes they may swap parts. They then sell these bikes at higher prices.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
In places where you don't have these home dealers, you can find cheap bikes. Where you have these home dealers, second hand bikes are expensive.
Other home dealers do this with computers. In some places, it is impossible to buy a second hand computer at a reasonable price. Only those with little understanding of computers buy them.
Some car dealers also snap up cheap second hand cars for sale privately. Some also sell the worst cars from home, not at the dealership.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
In places where you don't have these home dealers, you can find cheap bikes. Where you have these home dealers, second hand bikes are expensive.
Other home dealers do this with computers. In some places, it is impossible to buy a second hand computer at a reasonable price. Only those with little understanding of computers buy them.
Some car dealers also snap up cheap second hand cars for sale privately. Some also sell the worst cars from home, not at the dealership.
What's "reasonable"? I spend the time and overhaul the bike usually with a new chain, cabling, re-greasing, new bar tape, etc. (and I've also done this with computers), and provide "after sale" service for free because most of the people who buy these 2nd hand need that reassurance.
There is no law being broken, nor have I had any problems. In addition, I've made several new friends.
How's this any different from The Pro's Closet whose been on eBay for at least 10 years and now through a website? They even advertise to buy your old bike to resell.
04-20-20, 11:32 AM
#66
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04-20-20, 11:38 AM
#67
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Well if I keep finding deals like I did 2 weeks ago, I may very well turn into a part time flipper.
The deal I am speaking of was a Medici Pro Strada that happen to come with some vintage Scott Superbrake calipers and pads. When I saw them I was like "yuck" because they weren't the original Campy SR's. But soon I discovered the calipers and pads alone are worth more than double the $200 I paid for whole bike. These Scott's are in the Bike Museum of America. Not to mention the Mavic 630 crankset and arms, Suntour Cyclone BH2200 hubs and Japanese Araya rims in front and back. I was blessed with a $200 mint and rideable bike that I can make over $600 on just from those 4 parts.
The deal I am speaking of was a Medici Pro Strada that happen to come with some vintage Scott Superbrake calipers and pads. When I saw them I was like "yuck" because they weren't the original Campy SR's. But soon I discovered the calipers and pads alone are worth more than double the $200 I paid for whole bike. These Scott's are in the Bike Museum of America. Not to mention the Mavic 630 crankset and arms, Suntour Cyclone BH2200 hubs and Japanese Araya rims in front and back. I was blessed with a $200 mint and rideable bike that I can make over $600 on just from those 4 parts.
04-20-20, 11:40 AM
#68
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Flippers
I would think the bigger concern would be having your bike stolen & sold by flippers. Since when did recycling become a dirty word?
If someone doesn't want to pay the asking price there's always Walmart for a cheap bike. People buy & sell privately anyway & in the case of bikes some find it's more effort or time then they are willing to dedicate. Whether the sale is a one time occurrence or a Pensioner keeping his bills paid I think the original poster should focus more on being GREAT at what he does & winning customers from your reputation.
If someone doesn't want to pay the asking price there's always Walmart for a cheap bike. People buy & sell privately anyway & in the case of bikes some find it's more effort or time then they are willing to dedicate. Whether the sale is a one time occurrence or a Pensioner keeping his bills paid I think the original poster should focus more on being GREAT at what he does & winning customers from your reputation.
04-20-20, 11:41 AM
#69
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There are some people, often pensioners, who like to make a little extra money to supplement their pension. Some of these deal in second hand bikes. They read the local for sale pages often. When they see a bike cheap, they quickly pick it up. Some even get bikes from the trash. On some bikes they may swap parts. They then sell these bikes at higher prices.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
In places where you don't have these home dealers, you can find cheap bikes. Where you have these home dealers, second hand bikes are expensive.
Other home dealers do this with computers. In some places, it is impossible to buy a second hand computer at a reasonable price. Only those with little understanding of computers buy them.
Some car dealers also snap up cheap second hand cars for sale privately. Some also sell the worst cars from home, not at the dealership.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
In places where you don't have these home dealers, you can find cheap bikes. Where you have these home dealers, second hand bikes are expensive.
Other home dealers do this with computers. In some places, it is impossible to buy a second hand computer at a reasonable price. Only those with little understanding of computers buy them.
Some car dealers also snap up cheap second hand cars for sale privately. Some also sell the worst cars from home, not at the dealership.
Second Life Bikes sells restored and tested bikes at a fair price while helping the community. They back what they sell.They are also a full service bike shop for all cycling needs short of selling brand new bikes. More communities should have a bike shop like this.
04-20-20, 11:54 AM
#70
Junior Member
In my area there are as many delusional original owners listing their bike at near retail, as there are people trying to "make a buck" on a bike they might have fixed up.
It's the buyer's job to put in the effort to separate the junk from the gems - not the seller's.
If you aren't very technical or feel somebody's price might be way off, then I suggest using bicycle blue book as a starting point for negotiations.
Folks might argue the blue book is a bit low, but at least it can be used to bring somebody down out of the clouds and improve your chances of hammering out a deal.
If not, be patient and keep looking.
04-20-20, 11:55 AM
#71
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04-20-20, 11:57 AM
#72
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There are some people, often pensioners, who like to make a little extra money to supplement their pension. Some of these deal in second hand bikes. They read the local for sale pages often. When they see a bike cheap, they quickly pick it up. Some even get bikes from the trash. On some bikes they may swap parts. They then sell these bikes at higher prices.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
Just sayin’.
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04-20-20, 12:02 PM
#73
Junior Member
There are some people, often pensioners, who like to make a little extra money to supplement their pension. Some of these deal in second hand bikes. They read the local for sale pages often. When they see a bike cheap, they quickly pick it up. Some even get bikes from the trash. On some bikes they may swap parts. They then sell these bikes at higher prices.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
In places where you don't have these home dealers, you can find cheap bikes. Where you have these home dealers, second hand bikes are expensive.
Other home dealers do this with computers. In some places, it is impossible to buy a second hand computer at a reasonable price. Only those with little understanding of computers buy them.
Some car dealers also snap up cheap second hand cars for sale privately. Some also sell the worst cars from home, not at the dealership.
So when an ordinary average person looks for a second hand bike, on the rare occasion they see a cheap bike, it is sold before they have a chance to buy it. The only bikes they can buy are these more expensive second hand bikes from the home dealers. Those who don't know, think these are normal prices for second hand bikes.
In places where you don't have these home dealers, you can find cheap bikes. Where you have these home dealers, second hand bikes are expensive.
Other home dealers do this with computers. In some places, it is impossible to buy a second hand computer at a reasonable price. Only those with little understanding of computers buy them.
Some car dealers also snap up cheap second hand cars for sale privately. Some also sell the worst cars from home, not at the dealership.
04-20-20, 12:09 PM
#74
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Okay, I realize this was beaten to death days ago, but as a senior/retiree/old fart myself, am I the only one puzzled at “pensioner”? I thought I was in Buckingham Palace, listening to Queen Elizabeth (who I would consider a pensioner, FWIW). Another thing: are we “pensioners,” if you will, not considered “ordinary average” people? Even if we also ride bikes?
Just sayin’.
Just sayin’.
Little known fact that the entire Social Security system is just a deep state plot by the government to finance the acquisition and hoarding of all the cheap bikes.
Don't pretend you don't know what I'm talking about.
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04-20-20, 12:12 PM
#75
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I too have been collecting old bikes and restoring (not flipping) them for resale or just to ride for a while. Maybe one in ten make any money and a big profit would be $50 to$80. When they leave my garage they usually have new tires , new bearings, new cables and pads, grips and even a saddle. That's easily $100 in parts!
I do it because I like doing it and people are always coming to me and asking for bikes. So much so, I generally do not advertise. There is a limit to what these people will pay and seems to be in the area of $250.
Last fall my wife decided on a new ebike to replace her perfectly maintained but well used 2015 Giant Sedona. I asked our local dealer to take it on consignment to see how he could do. I asked him not to go lower than $200 and a week later he called to say he got $300! Surprised the heck out of me.
Every old bike I save for others to enjoy makes me a "Better Boomer". This one shown was just picked up by a family member. She was thrilled as she had virtual input during the build in these pandemic times.
Saving the world, one bike at a time!
I do it because I like doing it and people are always coming to me and asking for bikes. So much so, I generally do not advertise. There is a limit to what these people will pay and seems to be in the area of $250.
Last fall my wife decided on a new ebike to replace her perfectly maintained but well used 2015 Giant Sedona. I asked our local dealer to take it on consignment to see how he could do. I asked him not to go lower than $200 and a week later he called to say he got $300! Surprised the heck out of me.
Every old bike I save for others to enjoy makes me a "Better Boomer". This one shown was just picked up by a family member. She was thrilled as she had virtual input during the build in these pandemic times.
Saving the world, one bike at a time!
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We are what we reflect. We are the changes that we bring to this world. Ride often. -Geo.-
We are what we reflect. We are the changes that we bring to this world. Ride often. -Geo.-