Used vs. Refurbished

The terms "used" and "refurbished" often get mixed up when it comes to bicycles. However, there's a significant difference between the two. When you're looking for a bike that's both budget-friendly and eco-conscious, you should focus on one term — refurbished. That's because a used bike is sold "as is," while a refurbished bike from Nearly New Bikes has been restored to a condition close to new.

What to Expect When Buying Used Bicycles

Used bicycles can be a gamble. When you buy a used or secondhand bike, you're purchasing it in the condition the previous owner left it in. Any wear and tear, scratches, or mechanical issues? They're all yours. And while the seller may assure you that the bike is in working order, you won't truly know until you've taken it for a spin. Used bikes are typically sold without any warranty or return policy.

What Does Refurbished Mean?

Refurbished bikes, like those sold by Nearly New Bikes, have been used before, but they don't go straight from one owner to the next. They're given a thorough overhaul by expert technicians who check and repair any issues, replace worn-out parts, and ensure the bike is in top shape. Once the refurbishment process is complete, the bike functions just like a new one. Plus, all our refurbished bikes come with a warranty and a 30-day return policy.

Nearly New Bikes' Commitment to Quality

At Nearly New Bikes, we take refurbishment to the next level. We have our own set of standards and procedures for the bikes we sell. We conduct rigorous testing and make sure our bikes are ready for the road. We also continually monitor our processes through customer reviews and feedback. And because we know that issues can sometimes only surface after regular use, every bike we sell comes with a 30-day return policy and a 1-year warranty.

How Nearly New Bikes Categorises Refurbished Bicycles

At Nearly New Bikes, we grade our bicycles based on both their appearance and technical condition. This way, you'll know exactly what to expect when your bike arrives. Depending on the grade of the bike you choose, you can expect varying degrees of cosmetic wear and tear, or none at all.

  • Grade: Fair

    Appearance: Frame/equipment may have micro-scratches that could be slightly noticeable.
    Technical Condition: Equipment has signs of wear but is fully functional and reliable.
    Kilometers: The bike has been ridden for more than 5,000 kilometers

  • Grade: Good

    Appearance: Frame/equipment is in perfect condition, looking sharp.
    Technical Condition: Equipment is in good shape, with minor signs of use but performs excellently.
    Kilometers: The bike has been ridden between 500 and 5,000 kilometers.

  • Grade: Excellent

    Appearance: Frame/equipment is in perfect condition, practically gleaming.
    Technical Condition: Equipment is in near-mint condition, with minimal signs of use and operates as if brand new.
    Kilometers: The bike has been ridden less than 500 kilometers.

Why Refurbished is Better Than New

Refurbished bikes are not only a better choice than used ones, but they're also a more sustainable option than buying new. When you purchase a refurbished bike from Nearly New Bikes, you're not just getting a bike that's as good as new for a fraction of the price. You're also reducing your environmental impact. Refurbished bikes use fewer resources and produce less waste, making them a win-win for both your wallet and the planet.

Now that you understand the difference between used and refurbished, you're ready to make an informed decision. Explore our selection of refurbished bikes or read our customer reviews to learn more about the quality and reliability of our products.