Buy and Sell Used Bicycles in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Image of a used mountain bike
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Community-run Bicycle Co-ops in Winnipeg

Winnipeg has a strong cycling community and several local outlets for used bikes. Community-run co-ops like The WRENCH and The Bike Dump offer refurbished bikes at low cost. For example, The WRENCH operates a nonprofit bike shop (1057 Logan Ave) and a summer kiosk at The Forks; it “offers bike sales with a constantly changing selection of quality refurbished bikes”. The WRENCH also runs a popular seasonal bike sale (Forks Market, Wed–Sun in warm months) with affordable, tuned-up bikes. Likewise, The Bike Dump (631 Main St) is a volunteer-run workshop that sells “refurbished, recycled bicycles for sale on a sliding scale”. These co-ops accept donated bikes and provide community repair help, so buying there supports local cycling and gets you a bike in working order.

Nonprofit and Small Shops

Other local outlets include nonprofit and small shops. Plain Bicycle is a Winnipeg-based nonprofit selling unique Dutch-style bikes; it offers “pre loved” (used) Dutch bicycles in its Bicycle Garden (267 Sherbrook St) and The Forks location. In the south part of the city, independent mechanics (e.g. Southside Cycle Works) also sell refurbished bikes by appointment. (Some mainstream bike shops may accept trade-ins, but local recommendations often point to these community/co-op sources for deals.)

Bicycle Auctions in Winnipeg

Winnipeg also runs an annual city bicycle auction each spring. Unclaimed or impounded bikes are listed online for auction (usually April 24–May 1, 2025) with pickup after bidding. About 600 bikes are offered each year, many tuned up by The WRENCH volunteers. This is a chance to bid on second-hand bikes directly; buyers can pay by e-transfer or card and pick up at 7130 Roblin Blvd. (Unclaimed kids’ bikes from the auction are donated back to The WRENCH for redistribution.)

Online Marketplaces to Buy and Sell Used Bikes

For peer-to-peer sales, Winnipegers commonly use online classifieds. Kijiji is Canada’s largest classifieds site (and #1 in Canada for used goods), and it has hundreds of local bike listings (men’s, women’s, kids’, road, mountain, etc.). Facebook Marketplace and Winnipeg-specific buy/sell groups (e.g. “Winnipeg Bicycle Buy/Sell/Trade”) are also very popular. Local riders often recommend listing there, though one should watch for safety (meet in public, check bike serials, etc.). Other community-based platforms like Karrot/VarageSale and 9 Bears can also be useful for bikes. Overall, locals report that Kijiji and Facebook (Marketplace or cycling groups) are the go-to spots for used bike deals – you’ll find the widest selection of bikes and buyers there.

Each of these options serves both buyers and sellers: co-ops and auctions buy (via donation or intake) and resell bikes, and online platforms let individuals list bikes for sale.

The table below summarizes key options with type, buy/sell focus, and contact info:

Name / OutletTypeBuy/SellLocation / ContactSource / Notes
The WRENCHCommunity co-op / shopSells refurbished1057 Logan Ave (Lower Level); Forks Market kiosk (May–Sept)Nonprofit community shop – “constantly changing selection of quality refurbished bikes”. Tuned-up used bikes sold for ~$200–$500.
The Bike DumpCommunity co-opSells refurbished631 Main St (rear alley)Volunteer-run co-op – offers “refurbished, recycled bicycles for sale on a sliding scale”. Open Tue/Wed/Sun; donation-based pricing.
Plain BicycleNonprofit bike shopSells pre‑ownedBicycle Garden 267 Sherbrook St (and Forks)Sells “pre loved Dutch bicycles” via its nonprofit store. Known for simple, durable Dutch Omafietsen (upright city bikes).
Southside Cycle WorksPrivate mechanic/shopSells refurbishedRiver Park South (by appointment)Local bike mechanic selling refurbished used bikes cheaply (often by appointment). (Locals recommend this small-shop option.)
Winnipeg Bicycle AuctionCity-run auction/eventBuys (via auction)Online (Associated Auto Auction); Pickup 7130 Roblin Blvd (May 2–9)City’s spring auction (~600 bikes) – open bidding online. Many bikes are tuned by The WRENCH; sold as-is with multiple pay options.
Kijiji (Winnipeg)Online classifiedsBuy & Sellkijiji.ca (“Winnipeg” category)Canada’s #1 classifieds site. Widely used by Manitobans; browse dozens of local used-bike listings.
Facebook Marketplace / GroupsOnline social marketplaceBuy & Sellfacebook.com/marketplace/winnipeg + local groupsVery popular for used bikes (local community recommendations). See Winnipeg buy/sell/ride groups on FB (e.g. “Winnipeg Bicycle Buy/Sell/Trade”).
Karrot / VarageSale (Winnipeg)Local buying appBuy & Sellkarrotmarket.com (Winnipeg)Community marketplace app for Winnipeg. Growing user base; can find hidden gems via local listings.

5 practical tips for selling your used bicycle in Winnipeg.

1. Clean and Tune the Bike First

A clean, well-maintained bike sells faster—and for more money.

  • Wipe down the frame, wheels, and drivetrain to remove dirt or grease.
  • Inflate the tires and lube the chain.
  • If possible, tighten any loose bolts and adjust the brakes and gears.
  • A tuned-up bike shows the buyer you cared for it and saves them time/money.

2. Take Clear, Well-Lit Photos

Good photos grab attention and build trust.

  • Photograph the entire bike from the side (drive side), plus close-ups of the drivetrain, tires, brakes, and any damage or upgrades.
  • Shoot in daylight if possible, and use a clean background.
  • Avoid blurry, dark, or cluttered images—these lower your chances of a sale.

3. Include the Right Details in Your Description

A strong listing filters out tire-kickers and helps serious buyers commit.

Include:

  • Make, model, size, and year (if known)
  • Condition (e.g., “recently tuned,” “some cosmetic scratches,” etc.)
  • Upgrades or accessories (e.g., new tires, rack, lock, etc.)
  • Why you’re selling
  • Original purchase price (optional) for context
  • Be honest about any flaws—this builds credibility.

4. Price It Fairly (but Strategically)

Overpriced bikes sit unsold. Under pricing leaves money on the table.

  • Research similar listings on Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, or bike forums.
  • Consider age, brand, upgrades, and condition.
  • Leave room for negotiation (e.g., if you want $300, list at $350).
  • Be flexible, but set a firm minimum in your head.

5. Stay Safe When Meeting Buyers

Meeting strangers can carry risks—stay smart and safe.

  • Meet in public, well-lit areas (e.g., a police-designated exchange zone or busy parking lot).
  • If possible, bring a friend.
  • Accept e-transfer or cash only—be wary of PayPal or cheque scams.
  • Let the buyer test ride the bike, but hold onto their ID or have a buddy present to avoid theft.

Bonus Tip: If you’re not getting bites, consider re-posting with new photos, adjusting your price, or bundling extras like a helmet or lock.

by: Ray Pember

Ray is an experienced wordsmith who has dived deep into various niches. With over two decades under his belt, he knows a thing or two about staying afloat in this ever-evolving digital world… read more

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