Originally Posted by
wrk101
+1 One of the keys of success on trolling garage sales and thrift stores is that you really need a second, more common item to look for. Good bikes are relatively rare, so if that is all you are looking for, you will get tired of trolling pretty quickly. We look for good consignment clothing. It is relatively common (1 out of 10 garage sales, 1 out of 5 thrift stores). Bikes are more like 1 out of 200 garage sales.
You never go to Thrifts, and Garage Sales looking for one specific thing. I look for everything, mainly records, and stereo equipment.
I have been flipping Bikes on CL for over three years. I can't believe how much money I get for them. Mountain Bikes do not sell that well, although a profit is always made. But Road Bikes just floor me. I can't believe what people are willing to pay for them. Sometimes I find a super nice Bike, and can understand. But I never do anything to the Bikes I sell, except clean them. I did put Tires, and Tubes on a Japanese Soma that I liked. Sold it for $180. I have made almost $4000 in the time I have been selling them. The Peugeot I found last night for $20 should make some nice coin.
I prefer Hybrid Bikes for myself. Not much of a Road Biker.