Finding a bicycle salvage yard is like finding a unicorn. I have been to many scrap yards across the US, but have come across very few salvage yards for bicycle parts. Finding used bicycle parts is a great way to save money on repairs. If you are doing a restoration project, used parts bicycles are likely your only option. Below I will discuss the few bicycle junkyards that I know of, other local options for used parts, and how the bicycle salvage yards near me work.
Map of Bicycle Salvage Yards Near Me
For “bicycle salvage yards near me”, see the map below…
If you are really wondering where in the world could I find a good bike junkyard? The answer is China. That market has put over 2.3 million shared bicycles in Beijing, five times the real market demand. What do you think happens will all those bikes? They basically become a bicycle boneyard where abandoned bicycles go to die. In the US, we don’t have that kind of cycle problem…
Bicycle Salvage Yards Near Me – How Do They Operate
These are privately owned businesses and operate on the local level. The business models are a bit more like a thrift shop in that they buy and sell used bikes and parts. The only government regulation they have is sales tax, which is governed by the state they are in.
These yards operate very differently than automobile scrap yards. This is because bicycles don’t contain hazardous materials, there is very little metal to sell for scrap, and there is significantly less money in the business. Since bicycles don’t have as many parts as a car, for example, you don’t really have pick-and-pull scrap yards for them.
There are bicycle salvage yards with loads of trashed and broken cycles, but they are few and far between. Many of them are actually bike repair shops, that take in junk or broken bicycles and then sell the functioning parts. There are a few different business models that bicycle junkyards follow. Some will rebuild and sell bikes, some sell salvage parts in-store or online, and some do all of it.
How Do They Get Their Inventory
In my experience with the bicycle junkyards near me, they get used to cycles in three ways.
Private owners who are seeking repairs end up scrapping it if the repairs cost more than the value.
Looking for deals online, yard sales, and local listings, for people selling or giving away broken bicycles.
Auctions for cycles, but also government seizure auctions.
Every place may be a little different. Most of what they take in will need to be salvageable if they are going to pay money for it. A bike that is been run over by a semi-truck, isn’t going to have much value in used parts. They need bikes that they can find the value of parts still intact.
What Kind of Salvage Bike Parts Can I Find
Honestly, you can find anything. This includes seats, chains, various types of handlebars, fenders, pedals, spoke wheels, spinning wheels, crank kits, tires, etc…Just because you find salvage replacement parts for your model of bicycle, doesn’t mean you should blindly buy them because they are cheap.
Are Used Bike Parts Safe
Remember many of these parts come from broken bikes. Used parts that come from a cycle that was in an accident could be bent or malfunctioning. You wouldn’t want a set of refurbished brakes that have failed on someone. You also don’t want to trust your safety to any parts like a wheel that may not be completely straight. Your safety is more important than the price of the parts.
Who Buys Junk Bicycles Near Me
While there are not a lot of bicycle salvage yards near me, the ones that exist do purchase junk bikes. Your best bet though is to call your local cycle repair shop and ask if they buy used bicycles. If you have a popular model or a rare one with hard-to-find parts, you can likely strike a cash deal.
These places will purchase used bicycles for cash and then either sell the functioning parts, use the parts for repairing other customer’s bikes, or fix the bike and sell it.
The truth is though, you aren’t going to get much money for your second-hand bicycle. They have no scrap metal value and they are only worth the functioning parts. Even those parts you won’t get full value for since these places need to resell them for a profit. You are actually better off, stripping the functioning parts yourself and selling them online.
Other Places to Find Used Bicycle Replacement Parts
Most people looking for “bicycle salvage yards near me”, won’t have one close enough to make it worth the trip. So what are your other options? The best place to find used parts for bicycles is online junkyards, Craigslist, eBay, LetGo, The Neighborhood App, and Freecycle. Then alternatively on a local level, you can find parts at yard sales. If you live in a more urban area, you may be surprised how many bicycles will get scrapped next to your dumpster.
Other Resources for Finding Used Bicycle Parts
Connecting with other cyclists is often a good way to find used parts. Some may actually have the parts you need and others may be able to give you tips on where to find them. Here are a few good resources to connect with other cyclists:
Bicycle salvage yards are a great opportunity to save money on second-hand parts. The problem is there aren’t many around. There is also risk in purchasing second-hand parts from cycles particularly that were in accidents. If you are looking for who buys bicycles near me, while you might find a shop, the market for used bike parts isn’t very high so you won’t fetch much cash. This is what I have learned from the bicycle salvage yards near me.
Yes, many bicycle salvage yards welcome bike donations. Donating your old or unused bikes is a great way to contribute to the reuse and recycling of bicycle components. Contact your local salvage yard to inquire about their donation process.
What types of bikes do salvage yards typically accept?
Salvage yards generally accept a wide range of bikes, including old, damaged, or unused bicycles. Whether it’s a road bike, mountain bike, or cruiser, salvage yards often find value in various types of bikes.
Can I donate bikes with faulty brake pads?
Yes, salvage yards often accept bikes with faulty brake pads. They may either refurbish the brake systems or salvage usable components. It’s recommended to inform the salvage yard about the condition of the brake pads when donating.
How do salvage yards handle old bikes?
Salvage yards handle old bikes by assessing their overall condition. Usable parts may be salvaged and refurbished, while the remaining materials are recycled responsibly. This process aligns with eco-friendly practices, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Are salvage yards the same as scrap yards?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, salvage yards and scrap yards can have differences. Salvage yards often focus on salvaging and reusing usable parts, while scrap yards primarily deal with recycling materials. Some facilities may incorporate both aspects.
James is an avid junkyarder and mechanic. He has visited Junkyards in every US state and has restored over 30 makes and models of vehicles. He has several automotive and recycling related blogs that generate over 150K views a month.
