Q I want a good-quality second-hand road bike. I live in east London and could find a cheap one in a market. I understand, however, that a lot of those bikes are stolen. Do you have any better ideas?

DA, London

A Great private deals can be found advertised on bike shop “community noticeboards”, although you will have to make your own assessment of provenance and quality. Arrange to see the bike at the seller’s home — don’t trust someone who will only meet you in a car park. The more questions you ask the better ­— not least to see original sales documents.

You can see a good selection of second-hand bikes for sale on the Cyclists’ Touring Club’s online forum (ctc.org.uk), or the Bike Radar forum (bikeradar.com). Both are professionally moderated, which does not guarantee you are buying bona fide goods, but most rogues are weeded out. If you would prefer to buy from a shop, Camden Cycles in Eversholt Street NW1 sells second-hand bikes and has a good reputation.

Q Following a recent wrist fracture, my wife has lost all confidence in her ability to cycle. She says she will get back on her bike only with the initial aid of stabilisers. We have searched in vain for adult bike stabilisers. Can you help?

GG, south Wales

A Adult stabilisers can be found — but there are not many about: richardsonsonline.co.uk offers a pair for £38.99. It is also worth adjusting the bike to ensure the riding position is as upright as possible to reduce the road shock transmitted to the wrists. Keep it that way until the fracture has mended. Your wife may feel more confident if the saddle is slightly lower than normal, so she can touch the ground more easily and not worry about toppling over.

If the stabilisers don’t work out, consider a tricycle. The Pashley Picador (£645), for example, would solve balance issues for good (pashley.co.uk).

Need some bike advice? E-mail cycledoc@sunday-times.co.uk