# Buying a bike in Amsterdam

**Language:** Dutch  
**CEFR Level:** A2  

> Master everyday Dutch vocabulary by listening to Thijs and Lotte's conversation about buying a second-hand bicycle in Amsterdam. It may feel challenging at first, but by the end of this course you will be able to fully understand and participate.

**Setting:** At a local bicycle repair shop in Amsterdam Oud-West, Lotte is shopping for a reliable second-hand bike for her daily rounds. Thijs works behind the counter and guides her through picking, checking, and buying the right city bicycle.

## Lessons

### 1. Explaining why you need a bicycle

Thijs greets Lotte and asks how he can help, and Lotte explains that she needs a second-hand bicycle for her daily work as a nurse.

### 2. Describing your daily work routine

Thijs asks how many addresses Lotte visits each day, and they discuss what type of sturdy bicycle would best suit her daily routine.

### 3. Asking about the price

Thijs shows Lotte a black bicycle in the shop, and Lotte asks how much it costs before hearing the price.

### 4. Comparing prices and suspicious offers

Lotte mentions being offered a bike for forty euros at the station, and Thijs warns her against buying stolen bicycles on the street.

### 5. Talking about bicycle theft risks

Thijs explains why extremely cheap street bikes are dishonest purchases, and Lotte admits that her previous bicycle was also stolen.

### 6. Sharing a past theft experience

Thijs asks where Lotte's previous bike was taken, and Lotte explains that it disappeared while parked outside a patient's house for just ten minutes.

### 7. Checking bicycle serial numbers

Lotte inspects the black bike while Thijs points out the frame number underneath to demonstrate that the bicycle is legitimate.

### 8. Inquiring about bicycle brake types

Lotte confirms the frame number is clear and asks Thijs about the brakes, learning that the bike has both a coaster brake and a front hand brake.

### 9. Inspecting bicycle features and lights

Thijs highlights the chain guard and lights on the bicycle, and Lotte confirms that both the front and rear lights work properly.

### 10. Taking a bicycle test ride

Thijs invites Lotte to take the bicycle for a short test ride around the block while reminding her to watch out for local tram traffic.

### 11. Giving feedback after a test ride

Lotte tells Thijs how the bike rode and mentions that the saddle is too low and the bell is broken, which Thijs promises to fix for free.

### 12. Negotiating the price

Lotte asks if Thijs can lower the price, and after negotiating, they agree on a final price of 170 euros with a new bell included.

### 13. Discussing bicycle locks and security

Thijs explains the correct way to lock a bicycle frame to a post and recommends a strong chain lock to prevent theft.

### 14. Paying by card for a purchase

Lotte agrees to buy the chain lock, asks to pay by debit card, and waits briefly while Thijs adjusts her bike saddle.