Seller FAQ — Shift Bikes

What is Shift Bikes?

Shift Bikes is a UK-focused classifieds marketplace for buying and selling bikes and bike parts.

It’s designed specifically for cyclists — not general marketplace clutter — with an emphasis on clear listings, sensible messaging, and fewer scams than the usual places.

Shift Bikes is peer-to-peer: we don’t buy or sell bikes ourselves, and we don’t take part in transactions.

Who runs Shift Bikes?

Shift Bikes is run by a small, UK-based team of cyclists and developers who were frustrated by how fragmented and scam-ridden bike selling has become.

We’re building this deliberately and sustainably — not chasing growth at all costs.

If you ever need to contact us, you can reach a real person at: support@shiftbikes.co.uk

Is it free to list?

Yes — listing is free.

You can list bikes and parts without paying a fee.

In the future, we may offer optional paid features (such as boosted listings), but:

• core listings will remain free
• there is no commission on sales
• we won’t introduce surprise fees

If we change pricing, we’ll be upfront about it.

Do you take a cut of sales?

No.

Shift Bikes does not handle payments and does not take commission. You agree payment and collection directly with the buyer.

How do you reduce scams?

Scams are the biggest problem with bike classifieds — we take this seriously.

We reduce risk by:

• keeping messaging on the platform
• rate-limiting new accounts
• monitoring suspicious behaviour and listings
• removing obvious scam accounts quickly
• publishing clear guidance on common scam tactics

That said, this is still a peer-to-peer marketplace. We strongly recommend:

• using secure payment methods
• meeting in person where possible
• trusting your instincts if something feels off

Do I need to use PayPal / bank transfer / cash?

That’s entirely up to you.

Shift Bikes doesn’t mandate payment methods or act as an escrow service. We recommend using methods you’re comfortable with and that offer protection where appropriate.

What if I have a problem with a buyer?

If a buyer behaves suspiciously or inappropriately, you can:

• report the account
• block further messages
• contact us directly

We review reports manually and take action where needed, including banning accounts.

Is my personal information public?

No.

• Your email address is never shown publicly
• Buyers message you through the platform
• You control what location information is shown (e.g. town or county)
• You don’t need to display your full name

We only collect the minimum data required to run the service.

Do you allow stolen bikes or parts?

Absolutely not.

We actively discourage stolen items and remove listings that raise concerns.

Where appropriate, listings may include:

• frame or serial numbers
• proof of purchase indicators
• ownership history

If a bike or part is reported as stolen, we investigate and co-operate with authorities if required.

How long do listings stay live?

Listings stay live until:

• you mark them as sold
• you remove them
• or they expire after a reasonable period (with the option to relist)

You’re always in control of your listings.

Can I edit or remove a listing?

Yes.

You can:

• edit details and photos
• pause or delete a listing
• mark items as sold

No hoops, no support tickets.

Do I need an account to browse?

No.

Anyone can browse listings without logging in. An account is only required to list items or message sellers.

Will my listings appear on Google?

Yes.

Shift Bikes is built to be search-engine friendly, so public listings can appear in Google results — helping you reach buyers beyond the platform itself.

Why use Shift Bikes instead of Facebook or eBay?

Shift Bikes is:

• built specifically for bikes and components
• focused on the UK market
• calmer and less cluttered than Facebook
• free to list, with no commission
• designed around trust, not engagement tricks

We’re aiming to be the place cyclists actually enjoy using.

Is Shift Bikes established?

Shift Bikes is new — and intentionally so.

We’re starting small, improving the platform with real user feedback, and growing responsibly. Early sellers help shape how the marketplace develops.

Something else you’d like to know?

If you have a question that isn’t covered here, we’d genuinely like to hear it.

Email us at support@shiftbikes.co.uk We read every message.