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Bicycling is the most economical mode of transportation available. Bicycles require no fuel, very little maintenance, last for decades, don't pollute, can be ridden almost anywhere, provide healthy exercise, and don't require a license or insurance. The guidelines below for purchasing a used road bicycle are intended to help people who are seeking options for less expensive transportation.

Because bicycles last for decades with little maintenance, used road bicycles in good working order are widely available for very little money. Although new bicycles are usually sold with a warranty, by careful inspection, quality used bicycles can be purchased for less than the cost of a week's worth of groceries.

The best place to find used road bicycles is the local bicycle shop. The discount bicycles available for sale at local bike stores should have already been inspected, adjusted, and checked to make sure they are in good working order. Private sales through newspapers, websites, garage sales and flea markets are another good option, so long as the prospective purchaser feels comfortable inspecting the bicycle first.

When you check out used road bicycles you need to evaluate their main parts. Begin with the frame. Dents and scrapes on a frame are generally the result of simple usage. On the other hand, if a frame is cracked or has a bend in it, you are probably looking at a grave structural defect which could cause the frame to collapse under the weight of the bicyclist. A failure of either frame, handlebars or braking mechanism can result in a bruising, crippling, or even fatal accident.

The handlebars must be set securely in the steering column. Handlebars that shimmy may lead to steering trouble. If the frame, seat and handlebars seem to be in good shape, it is time to test the brakes. To do this, you should stand off to the side and give the bike a little shove, then alternately try each of the brake levers.

Front and rear brakes should grab firmly enough to make the wheel come to an immediate and complete stop when applied with full force. Try the same thing while seated on the bicycle, but be careful not to throw yourself off the bike by grabbing the lever too hard. Worn out brake pads should be replaced.

Subsequently, inspect the drivetrain. Wiggle the gear sets by the pedals, along with the gear set fastened to the rear axle. Side-to-side movement of the gears or the pedals means damaged bearings. Inspect the chain for some odd indications of damage. Inspect the gear shifting equipment to ensure every gear can be engaged in a precise manner.

Lastly, the wheels and tires should be inspected. The wheels should be a round shape, not oval. When the spokes are grabbed they should be even and firmly seated. While looking straight down, spin the wheel. There should be little to no side-to-side motion if the wheel is good. Take the bike for a quick a ride if it passes inspection before making a final decision if it should be purchased.