Meet buyers in a public place, confirm payment clears (Stripe at checkout, never bank transfer or cash app), and keep communication on Cyclesite messages so you have an audit trail. Do not release the bike until payment is confirmed in your account.
Meeting Safely for an In-Person Collection
At launch, Cyclesite collections are direct sales, buyer and seller arrange payment between themselves at the meet-up (bank transfer before hand-over is the most common safe choice). Stripe escrow with the 48-hour inspection window returns once courier delivery goes live. A few sensible precautions cover the risks of any in-person private sale.
Choosing a Location
Good choices:
- Coffee shop or supermarket car parks (busy, CCTV)
- Train station forecourts
- Bike shops that welcome handovers
- Police station safe trading spots (designated in most areas)
- Any busy public space during daylight
Avoid:
- Isolated locations or empty industrial areas
- Private homes as a first meeting
- After dark
On the Day
- Bring a friend if it helps you feel confident
- Tell someone where you are going and share your location on your phone
- Meet during daylight
- Trust your instincts, if something feels off, walk away
Payment Is Already Handled
Cyclesite payments go through Stripe at checkout before the collection. At the meet-up:
- Buyer, confirm the bike matches the listing, take a test ride, and if you are happy, confirm collection through your order page on the platform. Your 48-hour inspection window still applies if you opted into Buyer Protection.
- Seller, hand over the bike once the buyer has confirmed. The sale completes automatically after the inspection window passes, and you receive your payout 1 to 2 business days later.
A seller asking you to bring cash, pay by bank transfer, or complete the sale outside the platform is breaking our terms of service and voids Buyer Protection. Report them at [report a listing](/help/safety/report-listing).
What to Check on a Test Ride
- Brakes firm and responsive
- Gears shift cleanly through the range
- No creaks, clicks, or play in the headset or bottom bracket
- Frame condition matches the photos and condition rating
- Frame number matches the listing
Frequently asked questions
Where should I meet for a Cyclesite collection?
Somewhere public with people around. Coffee shop or supermarket car parks, busy train station forecourts, or designated police safe-trading spots are all good choices. Many bike shops welcome viewings in their forecourt. First meetings at a private home are an unnecessary risk.
How does payment work for an in-person collection?
For private classified collections, payment is arranged directly between buyer and seller (bank transfer before the hand-over is the most common safe choice). Cyclesite is not involved in the bike payment for collection sales. Stripe escrow with the 48-hour inspection window applies once Buyer Protection delivery goes live.