08/02/2026
One of the best ways to save money in cycling is buying a bike secondhand.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is riding it as if it’s already set up for you.
Every used bike was fit to someone else’s body. Their saddle height, fore-aft position, handlebar reach, and cockpit setup were all based on their anatomy—not yours.
Your inseam, torso length, arm length, flexibility, mobility, injury history, and riding goals all influence your ideal position on the bike. Even two riders of the exact same height can require completely different setups.
A professional bike fit transforms a “used bike” into your bike.
If you recently picked up a bike from Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or another secondhand marketplace, don’t stop after the purchase. Invest in making the bike fit you.
Your bike may be pre-owned, but your position shouldn’t be.