What to do with

Bicycles

Even bicycles in poor condition can be repaired, refurbished and re-used. However if your bicycle is beyond repair the main parts of your old bike can be recycled at your nearest recycling centre.

If you have a bicycle to dispose of, consider the following options:

Get selling and make some money...

  • Try advertising in a local paper or noticeboard 
  • Sell online at places like eBay and Gumtree
  • Sell it at a car boot sale or bring and buy sale

Pass it on...

  • Ask family and friends if they have a use for your old bike
  • Go online to give it away at sites like Freecycle and Freegle
  • Try searching the internet or contact your local council to find your nearest re-use organisation. The following organisations take old bikes and refurbish them for charity or community projects:

Recycle it...

If your bike is really beyond repair, you can recycle the metal parts. Many local recycling centres have a mixed metals recycling facility.

  • You will need to provide your own transport. Contact the recycling centre to find out the opening hours, which can vary for cars and vans
  • If you are taking your bike in a van, check with the recycling centre whether you need any permission or ID to do so
  • Before taking your bicycle to the recycling centre, remove any rubber or plastic parts such as tyres, inner tubes, saddles, brakes, plastic light or lock fittings and bells