How Do Certified Pre-Owned E-Bike Programs in the US Actually Work?

Written by: Rémy Rossi | September 23, 2025 Time to read 3 min

At Upway, our goal is simple: deliver top-quality e-Bikes at prices that make sense. And here’s how we make it work.

More about the Author: Remy Rossi

Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.

Cannondale Moterra Neo electric mountain bike
The secret formula to SpongeBob’s famous Krabby Patty was never revealed, but luckily for you, Upway isn’t as tight-lipped as the Krusty Krab. I’ll share how certified pre-owned e-Bike platforms like Upway actually work and how they can offer such great deals on the models and brands you love. Leading the pack, Upway is the first US-wide certified pre-owned e-Bike platform with nationwide shipping. From sourcing to shipping, pull back the curtain on reconditioned e-Bike programs.


How do certified pre-owned e-Bike platforms actually work?

Walk into any Upway UpCenter and you’ll see just how many moving parts there are to certifying a pre-owned e-Bike from start to finish. But the big picture is pretty straightforward, including smart sourcing, expert reconditioning, sale, and shipping.  

Upway mechanic repairing electric bike on repair stand

It all starts with sourcing

A large part of the secret sauce to how pre-owned e-Bike platforms work is how they source electric bikes. Through various channels, these platforms are able to get good deals on e-Bikes and pass on the savings to customers, even after factoring in reconditioning costs. 

Retailers like Upway are equipped to take in a large inventory, make any necessary repairs, and coordinate shipping, meaning they are better positioned to source pre-owned models and process them. So while individuals could try to resell or refurbish e-Bikes themselves (I say go for it!), these platforms can take advantage of smart sourcing and a larger operational scale. 

For example, here are the different ways that Upway sources its e-Bikes:

  • Manufacturer & Brand Partnerships: Upway works closely with leading e-Bike brands like Aventon, Rad Power Bikes, and more. These partnerships allow for access to overstock, returns, or clearance models, meaning customers can find brand-new bikes with little to no mileage at discounted prices.

  • Bike Shops Across the US: Upway also collaborates with local bike shops nationwide. We purchase demo units, showroom models, and excess inventory to bring you affordable options. Individuals can also trade in their bikes at these shops for in-store credit. 

  • Individual Pre-Owned Sales: Riders can sell their used electric bike directly to Upway. Receive a quote, Upway sends the bike box, and covers the shipping cost.

Upway UpCenter and bike inventory

How Upway reconditions its electric bikes 

Each electric bike is certified, meaning it passes a rigorous 50-point inspection and is restored to its best. Most e-Bikes arrive at our UpCenters in great condition (often like-new), but some require a bit of TLC before they are ready for sale. Our expert technicians check the motor, battery, charger, display, frame, wheels, brakes, drivetrain, and lights. And if a battery tests below 80% of its original capacity, we replace it with a fresh one. Worn or damaged parts are repaired or replaced as well. Each e-Bike also undergoes software diagnostics, an inspection report, charge cycle analysis, and a real-world ride test, so when it reaches you, it feels smooth, safe, and ready to go. 

Final sale, shipping, and smiles

Every e-Bike goes through a final process before it’s listed for sale. It’s deep-cleaned and approved by a senior mechanic. We then capture high-quality photos— highlighting every detail, including any small scratches— so you know exactly what you’re getting. Finally, the bike is securely packaged with its charger, keys, tools, and accessories, arriving ready to ride the moment it reaches your doorstep. Customers can choose between several different shipping options to suit their budget and desired level of bike assembly. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the warranty on Upway bikes?

Upway sells electric bikes with a one-year warranty. The warranty guarantees the bike has no defects in materials or workmanship under normal use for twelve months from the purchase date by the original buyer. Another way to protect your electric bike is with e-Bike insurance, which we offer through our partners at Sundays at the time of purchase. 

Where does Upway get its bikes?

Upway sources its electric bikes from a variety of channels. We get many of our bikes directly from manufacturers that have bikes they want to send, overstock, or last year’s models. We also receive e-Bikes from bike shops across the country and individuals looking to give their used e-Bikes a second life.

Key Takeaways


  1. Smart sourcing keeps prices low: Upway partners with top brands, local bike shops, and individual riders to secure overstock, trade-ins, and pre-owned bikes at great value.

  2. Rigorous certification ensures quality: Every bike passes a 50-point inspection, including motor, battery, and safety checks, with fresh parts or new batteries installed when needed.

  3. Ready-to-ride delivery nationwide: After cleaning, photography, and secure packaging, each bike ships with charger, keys, and accessories— arriving at your doorstep ready to roll.




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