On your bike: A guide to selling bicycles safely

Selling bikes on Trade Me is a great way to get Kiwis out and about. Whether you're an in-trade seller with the latest models or a parent selling a bike your child has outgrown, safety is paramount.

If you’re selling new bicycles for your business, there are some important rules you need to follow to make sure your bikes are safe and compliant. This guide will help you get up to speed.

For our "in-trade" sellers and those in the business

If you’re in the business of selling new bikes, the rules apply to you. It's crucial to understand your obligations under the mandatory product safety standard.

This applies to:

Retailers
Importers
Distributors
Manufacturers

The standard is set out in the Product Safety Standards (Pedal Bicycle) Regulations 2000, which ensures bikes sold in Aotearoa are safe and roadworthy.

Which bikes are covered?

The standard applies to most new pedal-powered bicycles with a wheelbase of 640mm or more (this includes most bikes for tamariki and adults). It also covers bikes that are sold partially assembled.

Some bikes are excluded from the standard, including:

Bikes with a wheelbase shorter than 640mm
Second-hand bikes
Custom-made bikes built for an individual
Recumbent bikes (the ones you lie back in)
Some specific competition bikes

What are the rules?

As a seller, it's your responsibility to make sure every new bike you list meets the standard. Don’t just assume your supplier has it covered – it’s a good idea to ask them for a copy of the bike's safety test results. If you have imported the bikes directly from overseas yourself, even more diligence is required – you will likely need to get testing to the standard completed yourself.

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s required:

Design and Performance: Bikes must be built to be safe. This covers everything from having no sharp edges and secure fasteners to effective brakes, stable steering, and a strong seat pillar.
Owner’s Manual: Every new bike must be sold with an owner's manual. This should include clear instructions for assembly, proper use, and regular maintenance.
Marking: The bike frame must be permanently marked with the name and address of the manufacturer or supplier, as well as a unique identification number (like a serial number).
Warning Labels: Specific warning labels are required for certain bikes. These must be in English and easy to read.
- If a bike is sold partially assembled, it needs this label:WARNING: In the interests of safety it is recommended that you have this bicycle assembled by a skilled bicycle mechanic.
- If a bike looks like a stunt or off-road bike but isn't built for it (e.g., a BMX-style bike for casual use), it needs this label:WARNING: This bicycle is not designed for off-road use or for stunting.

Failing to meet these standards would put you in breach of the Fair Trading Act and can result in significant fines, not to mention putting your customers at risk.

For more detailed information, check out the resources from Product Safety NZ and the Commerce Commission.

A quick word for whānau selling second-hand bikes

The mandatory standard doesn't apply to second-hand bikes, but safety is still just as important. When you're listing a pre-loved bike, you’re helping another family get riding, and taking a few extra minutes to check it over can make all the difference.

Here are a few best practices to help keep the next rider safe:

Check the brakes: Make sure both front and rear brakes work well and can stop the bike effectively.
Pump up the tyres: Check for any cracks in the rubber and make sure they’re inflated to the correct pressure.
Inspect the chain: Look for any rust or stiff links. Give it a quick clean and oil if needed.
Look for damage: Check the frame, handlebars, and seat for any cracks, sharp edges, or broken parts.
Be honest in your listing: If there’s a known issue, like a worn tyre or a scratch, be upfront about it in your description. It helps the buyer make an informed decision.
When in doubt, get it checked: If you’re not confident doing these checks yourself, we recommend taking it to a local bike mechanic for a quick safety check-up before you list it.