A few years ago when we decided that bike riding is something we want to do as a family, we sure didn’t have a lot of money and couldn’t afford to spend thousands of dollars on good bikes, trailers, and gear. As a matter affect our first bikes came from the craigslist with a value tag of $80 for both my husband’s and my bike. However, when it came to the children trailer, we were seriously puzzled. We knew there were plenty of people out there, who spend $500+ on a trailer that ends up collecting dust in the garage for years.
To this day we still are not positive that we got the best trailer for the money, and every time friends ask which trailer is the best, we are hesitant to answer.
There are a few things to take into a count, when shopping especially for a second-hand trailer:
Things to consider when buying a used bicycle trailer.
Recalls
As you all are aware children’s product are subject to recall more so than any other product. Many of these recalls are minor, but some are not. You should check with the CPSC to make sure that the trailer you are looking at has not been recalled. If it has – that is not the end of the world, but make sure the recall issue was taken care of. Many times it is a simple as adding a small part or even an easy as removing a label or sticker. Just so you know, there are few Smartphone apps out there, like Recalls, All Recalls, Recalls Plus, and Consumer Product Safety Commission, so if you love garage sales, you should definitely download one of these free apps.
Things You don’t know
You just don’t know how the previous owner treated the trailer. Was it left outside, ridden over by a car in the garage, or damaged in use? Look for any signs of wear or damage that could affect the structural integrity. Ask the owner if they are the first owner? Ask if it has been stored outside? Ask if it has been in an accident? Check all moving parts for wear and damage, check wheels, breaks, folding system and so on. Don’t be afraid to ask many questions – it is about the safety of your family.
What are You Saving?
What is the saving you are going to get by buying this particular trailer? If it is $50 -100, you might want to go with a new trailer and get all the perks of new ownership such as the warranty and peace of mind. Do your homework and know your prices.
Concerns
If you have ANY concerns, do not hesitate to contact the manufacture of the trailer you are looking at.
Safety first, and if you are in the market for a used trailer, see if your friends or neighbors are selling their old trailer. Always try and buy from a trusted source when buying used. Put a note up in your child’s day care or community board asking if anyone has one available.
It sounds a lot like buying anything else secondhand, great consumer tips in general!
It’s true – it could be pristine and you could be getting a great deal or it could have some unseen damage. You just need to be careful. Great post
We considered buying one of these when my kids were babies after riding on the Creeper Trail. My daughter didn’t enjoy it as much as we expected, though, so we never splurged on one. It would definitely be something I’d be willing to spend more on, since my kids’ safety is concerned.
I always thought these looked so fun for kids, and I want to get one for Ella. If I saw a secondhand trailer that looked really good, I would consider it. I am leaning toward buying new though.
This be something cool to look into when I have children!
Good point about checking the recall list when shopping at a yard sale. I didn’t realize there was an app!
I would say take your bike and take it for a spin after you have done you other homework. Seems like you could tell a lot with that as well.
There are certain things that I insist on buying new. This would be one.
Can you believe I don’t remember how to ride a bike? Isn’t that crazy? I think these trailers are so cool though. I didn’t know the difference between buying new and used.
These are some great tips. You can’t be too careful when it comes to the safety of kids!
What great tips!! Safety of kids is so important!
I’ve seen many people using these lately, but they scare me a bit especially when crossing a street.
First of all I would like to say superb blog! I had a quick question that I’d like to ask if
you do not mind. I was interested to know how you center yourself and clear your head before writing.
I’ve had a hard time clearing my thoughts in getting my ideas
out. I do take pleasure in writing but it just seems like the first 10 to 15 minutes tend to be wasted just trying to figure
out how to begin. Any ideas or tips? Many thanks!
Why users still make use of to read news papers when in this
technological world the whole thing is presented on net?