Guide to Buying a Used Electric Bike
The resurgence of cycling and the rapid development of lithium-ion batteries that are smaller, cheaper and more efficient are transforming urban transit and lowering commuters’ carbon footprint. In fact, research shows that e-bikes are outselling electric cars in the U.S., with 880,000 e-bikes sold in 2021 compared to just 608,000 electric cars. The projected market growth of electric bicycles indicates a promising future, with the globale-bikes market size expected to reach USD 55.34 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.5 percent from 2022 onwards.
If you have ever wondered should I get an electric bike, buying a used electric bike can be a smart and economical choice. It offers all the benefits of an e-bike — like less effort on hills, quicker commuting times and a lower environmental impact — without the hefty price tag.
However, buying any used vehicle can be a bit of a minefield if you don’t know what to look for. Use this simple guide to help you avoid common pitfalls when buying a used electric bike.
Determine Your Needs
Start by identifying what you’ll use the e-bike for: commuting, off-road adventures, long-distance touring or leisurely neighborhood rides. Your usage determines the type of e-bike you need.
Consider factors such as your commute length, terrain, your physical condition and storage needs. E-bikes come in various types, like city bikes for urban commuting, mountain e-bikes for off-road cycling and folding e-bikes for compact storage.
Research E-Bike Brands and Models
Once you know what you’re looking for, research e-bike brands and models that match your needs, then look at reviews and reliability ratings.
Certain brands, such as Cannondale, have established a reputation for their durable construction, whereas others, like Specialized, are known for their innovative technology. Additionally, Benno, Tern, and Urban Arrow are notable brands for their cargo bikes, offering practicality and functionality, while VanMoof stands out for its stylish line of bicycles. Gazelle and Riese & Müller are recognized for their sleek designs and employment of high-quality components. Stromer is celebrated for its advanced technology, while Serial 1 earns praise for its impeccable design.
Check Battery Capacity and Age
When buying a used electric bike, assessing the battery’s capacity and age is crucial. The capacity determines how far you can ride on a single charge, while the age will give you an idea of its remaining lifespan.
The battery’s health can degrade over time, even more rapidly, if not properly cared for, reducing its range and performance. Typically, e-bike batteries, most of which are lithium-ion, last 500 to 1,000 full charge cycles (or 25,000) before losing around 20-30 percent of its capacity but this can vary based on usage and maintenance.
Riding up steep inclines or rough terrain like mountain trails can deplete your battery faster. The way you use and charge your battery also affects its lifespan. For example, never run your battery until it is fully empty or leave it to charge for prolonged periods.
If the battery is nearing its life end or its capacity is significantly reduced, you’ll need to factor the cost of a replacement into your budget. Replacing a battery can cost between $500 to more than $900. However, if you purchase your used electric bike through a reputable seller, you can rest assured that your bike will have an optimal battery life and won’t need replacement.
Upway, your trusted refurbished e-bike seller, always tests any battery with more than 4,000 miles. This allows our technicians to assess whether it has lost any of its capacity and whether it needs to be changed or not.