Questions to Ask Before Buying Your Next Bike

You’ve found a bike you like. The price is right, it looks great, and you’re ready to buy.

Before you tap your card, ask these five questions. They’ll save you hassle, money, and disappointment down the track.

1. Does this bike fit me properly?

Don’t assume the bike fits just because you can ride it around the block. Ask the shop to check:

• Saddle height
• Reach to handlebars
• Standover clearance

Many shops include a basic fit with purchase. If they don’t offer, ask. A few minutes of adjustment makes a massive difference to comfort and performance.

2. What’s included in the warranty?

Bikes come with manufacturer warranties, but coverage varies:

• Frame: Often lifetime or 5+ years
• Components: Usually 1-2 years
• Wear items: Typically not covered (tyres, brake pads, chains)

Ask what’s covered, what’s not, and how warranty claims work. Do you deal with the shop or the manufacturer directly?

3. Do you offer a first service?

New bikes need a check-up after the first few weeks of riding. Cables stretch, bolts settle, and gears need tweaking.

Many shops include a free first service (usually within 4-6 weeks of purchase). Ask if it’s included, and if not, what it costs.

4. What accessories do I actually need?

Some accessories are essential:

• Helmet: Non-negotiable. Required by law in Australia.
• Lock: If you’re leaving it anywhere, ever.
• Lights: Required for night riding, useful anytime.
• Pump and repair kit: For roadside emergencies.

Other accessories are nice-to-have but not urgent. A good shop will tell you what you genuinely need versus what can wait.

Ask about bundle deals — many shops discount accessories when purchased with a bike.

5. What if it’s not right?

Understand the return and exchange policy before you buy:

• Can you exchange if the size isn’t right?
• Is there a cooling-off period?
• What condition does the bike need to be in?

Policies vary between shops. Knowing upfront prevents awkward conversations later.

Bonus: Is this the right bike for what I want to do?

Be honest with the shop about how you’ll actually ride — not how you imagine you might ride someday.

A shop that talks you out of an expensive bike you don’t need is a shop worth returning to.

Ready to buy?

Find bikes from local shops on Bike Yard. Check what’s available, compare specs, and visit a shop to ask these questions in person.