Cindy Shebley

Check out how much these sold for on eBay

I was on one side of the rummage table and a young couple on the other. My view of items on their side obscured by large boxes.

As I scanned my side I overheard the gal comment to her man "bicycle parts, do you want them?" - to which he replied "no" in a tone that sounded like he was not enjoying being asked. In fact, he gave such a gruff answer I'd guess he wasn't very happy about being dragged along to this outdoor rummage sale in the rain.

I perked up. As soon as they moved on I quickly found my way around to their side of the table. Once there, I found a heap of miscellaneous gears, rings and cables - priced at $1.00.

The parts were not vintage, neither were they new. They appeared to be appeared to be unused - there was almost no grease on them. They were just a jumble of stuff all in a pile.

Score!

When I brought them up to the cashier, she couldn't imagine what they were and suggested they might make a great clock or wind chime art.

I had other plans - to sell them on eBay.

If you've ever watched American Pickers you may have noticed they love vintage and antique bicycles. You may assume that those are the only type of bicycles to look for while you are out treasure hunting.

However, bicycle parts and accessories bought new are expensive and many folks turn to eBay to save a few bucks. It seems riders would rather buy used equipment to save their cash for the bakery stop on their next bicycle tour.

Which means that there is a market for just about any contemporary accessory from  panniers (bike bags) to chain rings.

What to look for:

Expect  a little road dust and grime - but don't buy really greasy or rusty parts. When looking at bicycle bags or clothes the zippers and pulls need to zip smoothly and tie downs still be tight. If the pulls on panniers are loose that means they'll all off when the rider goes over bumps. Make sure there is still lots of tension on the springs.

Stay away from buying used helmets for safety reasons. Once a rider falls the helmet should be replaced. If you buy a bike helmet used you may not know whether the helmet has taken a beating or sat on a closet shelf. I generally avoid them.

Chains, gears, etc need to look clean. Chain rings are replaced when the teeth are worn and will cause the chain to slip under pressure. Feel the edges of the teeth to make sure they are sharp not smooth.

Look for brand names: Trek, Redline, Shimano, Scram, Easton, Diamonback, Activa, Avenir, Bell, Bianchi, Blackburn, Camelbak, Cannondale, Cateye, Emerson, Kestrel, Specialized, Topeak, etc, etc

Remember also that many folks are turning to bicycle commuting so the sale of equipment is not limited to summer months.

Happy hunting!