What should I look for when inspecting the frame of my bicycle before donating it to Farcycles?

Look for signs of damage or wear such as cracks, dents, or rust. If the frame has any major structural issues, it may not be safe for someone to ride and therefore would not be a suitable donation. We can usually remove small amounts of rust but if the frame, forks, or wheels have a lot of rust, we won’t be able to recycle it. If you would like to see examples of acceptable and unaccepted levels of rust, please click here!

How do I inspect the wheels of my bicycle to see if they are suitable for donation?

Check the rims for any cracks or dents. Spin the wheels to see if they are straight and if they wobble or rub against the brake pads. Make sure the spokes are all intact and not loose. We are able to remove small amounts of wobble from a wheel but if the wheel is more severely buckled, we may need to replace the wheel but only if this is financially viable.

Can I still donate my bicycle if it has minor cosmetic issues like scratches or scuffs?

Yes, minor cosmetic issues will not affect the functionality of the bike and it can still be donated.

The brakes and gears don’t work properly or are rusty. Will the bike still be accepted?

Most likely, yes. We are able to replace tyres, brakes, gears, chains and other major components to enable us to restore the bike to a safe and functioning condition.

Do you accept donated bike parts and tyres?

We do accept donated bike parts, however, we only accept completely unused tyres.

Do you accept used bike helmets?

No. As a safety device, we only source and supply new helmets.

What types of bicycles are typically accepted by Farcycles?

Farcycles accept a variety of bikes including road bikes, vintage bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, kids bikes and balance bikes. However, we are unable to accept tandems, e-bikes, scooters, tricycles, children’s toys, recumbent bikes and cargo bikes.

Is there a certain age limit for the bicycles that are accepted by Farcycles?

There is no specific age limit, but older bicycles may require more maintenance and often, parts are no longer available, but can still be viable donations.

Can I donate a bike that needs repairs?

Yes, we have Cytech-qualified mechanics who can repair the bike and get it in working condition to move on to someone in need. However, it's important to disclose any issues with the bike so the mechanics can properly assess and repair it.

Is there anything else I need to do before donating my bicycle?

It's always a good idea to clean the bike before donating it. Remove any dirt and debris, and wipe down the frame and wheels. Also, consider donating any accessories that came with the bike, such as a lock or lights.

Finally, complete our Donate a Bike form for us to organise the donation of your bike!