Buyer Policy

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.

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 use Buyer Protection.

Payment options

You can choose to pay the seller directly (cash on collection, bank transfer) or 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)

If you can't collect in person, you can opt into Buyer Protection. Stripe holds your payment in escrow while the bike is shipped. You have a 48-hour inspection window after delivery. If the bike matches the listing, funds release to the seller. If it doesn't, our dispute team mediates a refund. The transaction fee is shown transparently at checkout before you confirm.

Stolen-bike checks

Every Cyclesite listing is automatically checked against UK stolen-bike databases before it goes live. This is one of the platform's core guarantees — 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 — open a dispute from your orders page within 48 hours of delivery.
  • General complaint — see our complaints procedure.

Refunds

Buyer-protected purchases are 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

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