My recent Facebook marketplace and gumtree experience

So, trying to save a buck, I was hunting down a new bike on facebook and gumtree.

I had 2 experiences which were clearly not legit. I asked one seller to confirm the bike wasn't stolen before making the journey whereupon he assured me it wasn't and that doing up bikes in his spare time was his hobby. That was what I wanted to hear and so I took the plunge and made the trip across London. The bike was exactly what I was looking for and a good price. The problem was after I asked a couple of questions it was clear he didn't have a clue about bike mechanics. So this set my alarm bell off as he was already contradicting himself. So I politely declined and went about my merry way. The seller still has listings on FB and GT with descriptions like 'the 58cm Allez - a rare model, grab yerself a bargain'.

Another seller was advertising Allez bikes for £75. So I messaged and was given this message:

Thank you for your interest in our products. Please read the following
carefully. thank you for your time

Here's the all-new 2021 Specialized Allez E5 2021 road bike Because
our purpose is to promote our website, we also need high-quality
customers and reviews. In order to attract more customers to our
website for consumption, we have such a low price. Only 15 discount
spots available. Please order on our official website (this is the
only way to buy)

Buy now with free shipping We will send it out within 48 hours after
your purchase on our official website. You will receive it within 3-4
days of sending

Our website accepts PayPal payments. Because PayPal provides insurance
directly. Therefore, the payment will be protected by law. After
signing, if you are not satisfied with the quality, you can apply for
a replacement or refund at any time.

If you want to buy, please copy the link below to our official website
to buy

https://www.stillstop.shop/products/allez-e5-road-bike-2022?variant=1000009249112371

Remember to enter the discount code: mmm1122 Please let me know after
purchase. I will arrange for the staff to send it for you. xx cheers!"

'Bargain!' I thought, and I even tipped but I'm still waiting....LOL.(sarcasm)

I eventually found something which was a good deal and I don't think the seller was crooked. However, the seller did tell me he was sold a written off motorbike (frame damaged) by someone who lied to him about its condition and so there's another story FWIW. The point is I don't normally spend much time on facebook marketplace or gumtree looking for deals but just this little foray has clearly exposed something here.