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Buying Used Bike Components: TPC Conditions Explained

Learn what our three used component conditions mean, so you know exactly what to expect before you buy.

Written by: Owen Halseth

Published on:

Posted in:FAQs

Buying used bike components online can be a risky endeavor if you are not familiar with the seller. There’s nothing better than spending $200 on a “gently used” derailleur to have it show up looking like it was dragged behind a car with “Just Married" painted on the rear window.

We are here to prevent your used bike parts from showing up looking like an angry bear got to them. With 30-day returns on all parts, we offer peace of mind when you buy with us.

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TLDR:

What Are Bike “Take-Off” Components

If you’re browsing our selection of bike components and notice a “Pre-Owned” condition, it’s likely a take-off from a bike in our warehouse. For one reason or another, the entire bike did not meet our quality standards to sell as a whole, so we stripped the bike down and listed each part individually.

Don’t worry, we individually inspect each part we take off by hand and assign it one of our conditions based on the cosmetic wear, and of course, we make sure it functions properly and safely. Something you don't find on other second-hand websites like PinkBike, eBay, or Facebook marketplace.

If you are ever not satisfied with the component, we offer a 30-day return policy, and our Ride Guides are always here to walk you though any technical difficulties, should they arise. Don’t worry, we got you!

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New vs Pre-Owned Bike Components: What’s the Difference?

At the end of the day, buying brand new bike components vs used bike parts is not much different. It all comes down to compatibility, what it looks like, and price. Our New (Open Box) bike parts are essentially the same as what you'd get when purchasing directly from the manufacturer, minus the fancy unopened box and higher price tag associated with top-of-the-line new bike parts.

So, is it worth buying used bike components? Absolutely. You get the same top-shelf functionality without shelling out Michelin-star dinner prices.

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Used Bike Component Condition Grades

We take our job seriously when it comes to grading take-off bike parts. Honesty and transparency are essential when buying used bike components online, we want you to feel confident about what you're getting.

At The Pro’s Closet, we assign each used bike component 1 of 3 potential designations.

New (Open Box)

Our new open box bike parts are essentially brand new. They have zero prior rides and no cosmetic damage. Many of these components are pulled of brand new bikes that have not been used at all. While they will not all come in original packaging, we package all products with care to make sure they arrive damage-free and are ready to be thrown on your bike. These new components provide the best value whether you are building a bike from the ground up or need to replace a damaged part.

new - open box used bike parts

Pre-Owned - Excellent

These components are taken off complete bikes, were lightly used, and do not come in original packaging. They may display some minor cosmetic scratches or wear.

used bike derailleur, excellent condition

Pre-Owned - Good

Pre-owned - good components are take-offs from complete bikes that did not pass our full inspection process. The components function properly, but display some signs of cosmetic wear and scratches. Function is not impeded in any way.

used bike derailleur, good condition

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How to Choose The Right Used Components for Your Bike

At the end of the day, each of our used components will function properly and provide all the benefits of a new part, at a fraction of the price. The best deals will come from our New (Open Box) items, where they are visually identical to a new bike component and have limited to no prior use.

If one of my derailleurs were to get smashed into a rock, catch me purchasing from that condition bracket, because I like shiny new things.

However, if looks are not important to you, and just a functional part is all you are after, our good and excellent condition components are quite the steal. Extremely discounted and functions all the same!

Buying used bike components from us means great value, a 30-day return window, and access to knowledgeable Ride Guides who know more than ChatGPT, so you can be sure you're in the right hands.

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