1. Take a test ride
A bike needs to match your riding style and comfort. Ride a few laps on different surfaces before you decide.
Find, buy, insure a used bike.
Just because a bike is secondhand doesn't mean you care about it any less. On Willhaben & Co. you'll find high-quality models that are a bargain, but definitely not cheap. Good reason to insure them.
Where to look
Where can you find a good used bike?
Willhaben
Austria's largest marketplace for used goods, huge selection of bikes of all kinds.
eBay Classifieds
International selection, often great deals on brand-name bikes.
buycycle
Specialized marketplace for used road bikes and mountain bikes with quality inspection.
Fahrradkeller
Used bike specialist in Vienna with over 300 bikes in stock.
IG Fahrrad
Vienna bike shop with workshop and used bike selection.
Reanimated Bikes
Refurbished used bikes from Vienna — restored and ready to ride.
Cooperative Fahrrad
Cooperative bike workshop in Vienna with self-help workshop and used bike sales.
WUK Radflohmarkt
Regular bike flea market at WUK Vienna — great deals directly from private sellers.
Local bike shops
Many specialist bike shops accept used bikes as trade-ins or offer refurbished models.
Frame size
How do you find the right frame size?
| Frame size (inches) | Frame size (cm) | |
|---|---|---|
| 150–160 cm | 16,5"–19" | 42–48 cm |
| 160–170 cm | 19"–20,5" | 48–52 cm |
| 170–175 cm | 20,5"–21,5" | 52–55 cm |
| 175–180 cm | 21,5"–22,5" | 55–57 cm |
| 180–185 cm | 22,5"–23" | 57–60 cm |
| 185–190 cm | 23"–24" | 60–62 cm |
| 190–195 cm | 24"–25" | 62–64 cm |
Checklist
What to look out for when buying.
2. Check brakes, lights and tires
Brakes and lights must work perfectly. Also check the condition of the tires — cracked tires mean expensive punctures.
3. Check frame size
The right frame size is crucial for a comfortable ride. As a rule of thumb: if you're 170 cm tall, a 52–55 cm frame usually fits. When in doubt, get measured at a bike shop.
4. Check manufacturer warranty
Some manufacturers offer frame warranties that also apply to second owners. Ask about it — it can be a real advantage.
5. Complete purchase agreement
A written purchase agreement protects both sides and documents the bike's condition. Record names, addresses, frame number, purchase price, and condition description — and have both parties sign.
6. Note down frame number
The frame number is your bike's ID card. You'll need it for registration, insurance, and in case of theft.
Buying guide
What to look for depending on bike type.
City bike / Urban bike
City bikes are the most common everyday bikes — and often the best bargains. Look for a sturdy frame without cracks, a functioning hub gear system (Shimano Nexus or Alfine last forever), and working lights (hub dynamo is ideal).
Typical price range used: €150–500. Brands like KTM, Kalkhoff, or Schindelhauer hold their value particularly well.
Road Bike
For road bikes, the frame and wheels matter most. Check the frame for hairline cracks, especially at the dropouts and head tube. Carbon frames can have invisible damage — when in doubt, have a specialist take a look.
Wear parts like chain, cassette, and brake pads can be replaced cheaply — don't let that put you off. Typical price range used: €400–2,000.
Mountain Bike
Mountain bikes have a hard life. Pay special attention to the suspension fork and shock — a service can easily cost €150–300. Check the bearings (headset, bottom bracket, rear triangle) for play by wiggling the wheel.
Full-suspension bikes require more maintenance than hardtails. Typical price range used: €300–1,500.
E-Bike / Pedelec
For used e-bikes, the battery condition is crucial. Ask about the age and charge cycles — after 500–1,000 cycles, capacity noticeably decreases. A replacement battery costs €400–800.
Check that the motor (Bosch, Shimano, Brose) runs smoothly and the software is up to date. Typical price range used: €800–3,000. Ask to see the original receipt — you'll need it for insurance.
After the Purchase
Your Bike Has Arrived — What Now?
Get It Serviced
Have your used bike checked by a specialist dealer. Our partner network helps you find a service near you.
Get a Lock
Invest at least €49 in a high-quality U-lock. No proper lock means no insurance coverage.
Check your lights
In Austria, lights and reflectors are required by law. Make sure everything works.
Get insured
Your used bike deserves the same protection as a new one. Insure it with Karl — done in 1 minute.
Insurance coverage
What Karl covers for your used bike.
Included in coverage
- Theft of the entire bike
- Parts theft (wheels, saddle, battery)
- Accident damage and vandalism
- Fire, water, storm
- Mobility guarantee in case of breakdown
- Worldwide coverage
Your responsibilities
- Lock with at least ABUS security level 6
- Lock your bike to a fixed object
- Provide frame number when taking out insurance
- Report damage within 3 days
The Team
Who's behind Karl?
We're a small team from Vienna who are passionate cyclists ourselves. Karl is the insurance we always wanted as cyclists — straightforward, fair and fast when it comes to claims.
Partner testimonials
Can I trust Karl?
Thanks to Karl's quick communication, we usually already know about your claim before you even enter our shop. That's top service for everyone involved.
Theresa Ferstl
Head of Marketing
Bernhard Kohl
You don't have to be called Karl to love Karl — The most likeable bike insurance for every situation in life.
Gernot Frank
Managing Director
Citybiker
We've been working with Karl Insurance for years, and in our opinion there's no insurance that acts more professionally and pays faster than this company! Can only recommend!
Martin Zeiler
Owner
Roadbiker
With Karl, we have a partnership where we really appreciate the seamlessness, reliability & speed! And we can offer our customers a brilliant addition to their bike purchase!
Sebastian Zahlbruckner
Managing Director
Nora Pure Sports
Be insured
Insure your bike now in 1 minute and ride on with total peace of mind.
