How Many Quality-Control Photos Should an Online Seller Provide?

Written by: Rémy Rossi | Sept 13, 2025 Time to read 4 min

When you can’t test-ride, photos become even more important and are critical for trust and buyer confidence. 

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.

Gazelle electric city bike on sidewalk

Pictures are worth a thousand words— and can be a lot more interesting and informative when shopping for an electric bike, too. Online bike sellers cannot offer you a test ride or arrange a close inspection. So, they must provide high-quality images of the bike. But how many photos should an online seller provide? Upway provides 8 to 12 professional photos per listing on the website. That range covers the most important angles of the bike, including any detailed images of frame scratches or imperfections. 


Trusted online sellers upload detailed photos

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Providing detailed photos is a way for online sellers to gain trust and share as much information as possible about the electric bike. High-quality photos show potential buyers that the seller is serious and honest. Most importantly, these images give information about the bike's current condition. Buyers can see general wear and any frame scratches that may influence their decision.

Photos are important for all sellers, whether it's a brand, used e-Bike platform like Upway, or individual posting to local listings like Facebook Marketplace. E-Bikes sold by Upway are all certified and inspected, whereas photos posted on private sales may reveal worn components or the need for certain repairs. Regardless, photos are a must-have for buyer confidence. 

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Compare photos and bike specifications

As a responsible buyer, you should compare the photos provided by the online seller with the bike’s listed or original specifications. Sometimes bike specifications can be incorrectly added to the page, contradicting what’s seen in the photos. It’s worth figuring out which parts are actually on the bike since that can affect value and performance. It’s not uncommon for used e-Bikes to feature upgraded or previously replaced components, or include additional accessories

Inspect the photos carefully and don’t hesitate to ask for additional images if you want. Bicycles are complex machines. A few photos may not provide enough information, especially if you cannot see the bike in person before making a purchase. Frame scratches and small signs of wear are common for pre-owned bikes, but watch out for cracks, heavily worn parts, balding tires, and other signs that more serious maintenance is required. 


Tips for taking photos of a used bike

RadRunner electric bike
When selling a used electric bike, it can pay off to take high-quality photos to include in the posting. Potential buyers will take you more seriously, trust the posting more, and enjoy seeing your bike at its best. Here are some tips for taking quality photos when selling your e-Bike:
  • Clean the bike: Give the bike a thorough wash and cleaning before the photoshoot to significantly improve its curb appeal.

  • Choose a professional setting: Take photos of your bike leaning against a wall or fence where there are minimal distractions. The focus should be on the bike rather than bits and bobs in the background. 

  • Use good lighting: Try to take pictures with bright, natural lighting that will make your bike look its best. Plus, being outdoors instead of a storage unit or cramped garage is simply natural for a bike.

  • Take photos from multiple angles: Take several photos, including profile, head-on, from the rear, and closer images of the handlebars, battery, drivetrain, and seat areas. 

  • Be honest: Include close-up photos of any frame scratches or imperfections that buyers will want to be aware of. They’ll find out eventually and it’s best to be transparent from the get-go. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Upway offer a warranty?

Yes, all electric bikes sold by Upway come with a one-year warranty, guaranteeing the bike will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for twelve months from the date of purchase by the original purchaser. 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. 

What is the lifespan of an electric bike?

Electric bikes that are well taken care of can last for several years, even upwards of 10 years in the best circumstances. The battery will likely have to be replaced after a few years as batteries gradually lose performance over time. The longevity of high-quality e-Bikes and Upway’s professional refurbishing process mean you can enjoy your new electric bike for many years to come.

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. Online sellers should include 8–12 clear, high-quality photos showing the bike from multiple angles, including any scratches or imperfections.
  2. Buyers can compare photos with the bike's listed details. This helps them check the condition, find upgrades, or spot differences.
  3. Transparent, well-lit photos not only showcase the bike but also build trust, helping buyers feel confident about purchasing online.




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