This page covers how buyers can use Cyclesite, what protections apply, and what to do if something goes wrong. Cyclesite is a classified advertisement platform, every contract for sale is between the buyer and the seller. Cyclesite provides buyer-side tools to make those private transactions safer.
Buyer Protection and secure delivery have not launched yet. The provisions below describe how they will operate once live, and take effect only when the feature launches.
Buying on Cyclesite
Browsing, searching, saving listings and contacting sellers is free. You do not need an account to view bikes; you do need an account to save listings, message sellers, or, once it launches, use Buyer Protection.
Payment options
You can choose to pay the seller directly (cash on collection, bank transfer) or, when it launches, use Buyer Protection at checkout.
Direct payment (collection)
Most private bike sales in the UK happen this way. You arrange to view the bike, ride it, and pay the seller in person. Cyclesite is not part of the payment. We strongly recommend bank transfer or cash, never gift cards or off-platform payment apps.
Buyer Protection (escrow + courier), coming soon
Once Buyer Protection launches, if you can't collect in person you'll be able to opt in at checkout. Stripe will hold your payment in escrow while the bike is shipped. You'll have a 48-hour inspection window after delivery. If the bike matches the listing, funds will release to the seller. If it doesn't, our dispute team will mediate a refund. The transaction fee will be shown transparently at checkout before you confirm.
Stolen-bike checks
Every frame number a seller supplies is automatically checked against UK stolen-bike databases before the listing goes live, and a match is flagged for our Trust and Safety team to review. Checks are indicative, not a warranty of clean provenance. If a bike is reported stolen after listing, we notify you and freeze the listing.
Reporting a problem
- Listing inaccuracy or scam, use the "Report listing" link on the listing page or email trust@cyclesite.co.uk.
- Buyer Protection delivery dispute (once the feature launches), you'll be able to open a dispute from your orders page within 48 hours of delivery.
- General complaint, see our complaints procedure.
Refunds
Once Buyer Protection launches, buyer-protected purchases will be refundable per our refund policy when the dispute team rules in your favour. Direct-collection sales are contracts between you and the seller; refunds are at the seller's discretion.
Related policies
- Seller policy, what sellers agree to when listing on Cyclesite
- Refund policy
- Purchase terms
- Terms of service