We get lots of calls and emails about buying a used Gunnar bicycle or frame. Of course, we’d be happier if you were buying a new one, but we know that a sold Gunnar as often as not makes room for a new one in the stable.
Here are some important tips:
1. Know your best framesize before you shop: Money spent on a Gunnar that doesn’t fit is money wasted. You can use “My Gunnar” to figure out what size works for you. Though geometries have evolved through the years, you won’t be more than a centimeter off on fit, even if you are buying an older bike. Do be careful about standover heights, as the Roadie and Sport are two centimeters shorter than they were in 2004. If you’re not sure about your fit, invest in a fitting at your local bike shop. If you’re not buying a bike from them, you should pay for the fitting. Be up front and you’ll keep harmony with the relationship. This could come in handy when you need service or when you upgrade to a new Gunnar.
2. Get a serial number: This is important. Just about every Gunnar is traceable – at least to the initial owner – by the serial number. You should be suspicious if they are unwilling to give it to you. The serial number takes the form of “M YYSSS” where M is a month code from A to M, YY is the last two digits of the year and SSS is a serial number for the month. Our FAQ section has information on the serial number format and location.
3. Warranty: The Gunnar Loyal Friend warranty extends to the original owner only. This means you’ll want to know that the bike or frame was well cared for. Ask about how the bike was used and maintained. We recommend a 1-2 week inspection period, though you should be prepared to pay for return shipping, if needed.
A used Gunnar is a great way to join our family of Gunnar owners. It may be just the right stepping-stone for a new one.
Thanks,
Richard
{ 5 comments }
Interested in a used 62cm Tire biter. Is there any information on the website about the angles and dimensions for older models? I would like to know what the chainstay length and the standover would be for a 62cm.
also curious what the cost is for a refinish? It would just be the frame. Would then like to buy a gunnar fork to match.
Good luck on your potential Tirebiter purchase. Even if you register your bike, you won’t get the detailed stats because your bike dates from before we kept frame details on-line. The basic fit and handling of the Tirebiter hasn’t changed with the following exceptions:
1. The head tube is 10mm longer.
2. The seat tube is 30mm shorter.
This means that the Gunnar Fit Tool will pretty much work. You’ll need to plan 10mm of additional headset spacers. It looks like the standover height only dropped 3mm. One of these days we hope to add historical geometries to the site.
Where is a good place to look for used Gunnars, more specifically Roadies?
Craig’s list and Ebay are typical resources. Don’t forget to talk to your local Gunnar dealer. They may have a demo bike or customer thinking about upgrading.
As someone who only buys used cycling gear (mostly because of financial limitations), I was impressed to see this helpful post.
With so many frame builders these days, it’s daunting trying to decide the top choices, but this post definitely moved Gunnar near the top for my next purchase (hopefully new!).