A city bike is the perfect bicycle for the city, work, and leisure . It's practical, comfortable, and uncomplicated – and often a real bargain when bought used. In this article, you'll learn what to look for when buying a used city bike and why it's the smart choice.
✅ Why a city bike?
City bikes were designed for everyday urban life: short trips, shopping, commuting to work, or spontaneous visits to a café. The advantages:
- Upright sitting position → comfortable & back-friendly
- Mudguards & luggage racks → ideal for everyday use & bags
- Low step-through frame (often found on women's bikes) → practical in city traffic
- Light & maneuverable → perfect for narrow streets and short distances
🔍 Buying used is worthwhile!
A new city bike often costs €400–€800. You can get a well-maintained used bike for half that price or less – without sacrificing quality.
Pay attention to:
1. Frame & Geometry
- No rust, no cracks
- Suitable frame size (important for riding comfort)
- Lightweight aluminum frame, ideal for city traffic
2. Lights & Reflectors
- Functioning lighting system (compliant with German road traffic regulations)
- A hub dynamo is more durable than a battery light.
- Are there reflectors on the tires and pedals?
3. Tires & Brakes
- Tires with good tread and no cracks
- Rim brakes or coaster brakes – depending on your preference
- Brakes pull cleanly and evenly
🔄 When is a used city bike particularly worthwhile?
| situation | Why buying used makes sense |
|---|---|
| New in town | Fast & affordable mobile |
| Transitional cycle (e.g., university studies) | Invest little, remain flexible |
| Second bike for the office | Less worry about theft |
| Sustainability is important | Conserve resources through reuse |
💡 Our recommendation
At BiciNo.1 you will find a large selection of used city bikes – tested, ready to ride and with a 12-month warranty.
Our bikes are:
- 🛠️ Technically obsolete
- 🚲 Ready for immediate use
- 🔐 With return policy & warranty
