Upway sources its high-quality electric bikes from manufacturers, local bike shops, and individuals selling used e-Bikes. We receive overstock directly from bike brands and shops, and we also buy pre-owned e-Bikes from cyclists like you. These sourcing strategies are a win-win for Upway and our partners, helping you get the absolute best deal on electric bikes from the top brands.
How To Tell When a Used E-Bike is Actually Worth Buying
Written by: Rémy Rossi | June 21, 2025 | Time to read 5 min
Decide on a delightful deal rather than a dud. Here’s how to spot a solid second-hand ride before you spend a dime.
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.
Buying something used can score you a sweet deal, but it comes with fewer assurances compared to purchasing a brand-new item. The same is true for electric bikes, but there are strategies to tell when a pre-owned e-Bike is worth buying— or if it’s a lemon. Here’s what you need to know.
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Upway is your go-to destination for buying and selling e-Bikes online. Find your next e-Bike at up to 60% off retail, available in new or like-new condition.
Why buy a used electric bike?
Buying a used e-Bike can save you heaps of cash. Just like used cars, pre-owned electric bikes can depreciate significantly compared to shiny, new models, even if only lightly used— meaning you can get a great deal on an e-Bike that’s in great condition. Buying used also gives a second life to an existing electric bike, supporting the circular economy and cutting down on waste and production.
How to tell when a used e-Bike is actually worth buying
Of course, the downside of buying used is that the electric bike isn’t brand-spanking-new. There can be wear and tear on components, and it likely doesn’t come with the original warranty in case issues arise— and problems on the electrical side of things can be harder to notice or diagnose when buying a used model. And in the worst cases, a seller is trying to pass on a malfunctioning, damaged, or stolen electric bike for quick cash.
The best strategy to ensure you’re getting a great used e-Bike is to buy from a reputable source that inspects and certifies the bike. Many local bike shops sell pre-owned or last year’s demo models. In contrast, places like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist can be a bit of a shot in the dark when it comes to e-Bikes.
Upway specializes in like-new and pre-owned electric bikes, offering a huge selection of models across all categories from the top brands. Our professional mechanics complete a 50-point inspection and certify every e-Bike, including a one-year warranty.
The best strategy to ensure you’re getting a great used e-Bike is to buy from a reputable source that inspects and certifies the bike. Many local bike shops sell pre-owned or last year’s demo models. In contrast, places like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist can be a bit of a shot in the dark when it comes to e-Bikes.
Upway specializes in like-new and pre-owned electric bikes, offering a huge selection of models across all categories from the top brands. Our professional mechanics complete a 50-point inspection and certify every e-Bike, including a one-year warranty.
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Green flags when buying a used e-Bike
Low mileage
When sizing up a used electric bike, start with the mileage. This is a common metric for used vehicles for a reason, acting as a good indicator of the general wear and usage. Check the odometer to see the total distance ridden. If the bike has a high mileage, like 4,000+ miles, it may still be worthwhile if it’s been maintained and taken care of.
Healthy battery
Mileage also relates to the battery capacity and condition— and this is a big one. The battery is one of the most expensive parts of an e-Bike, so you want to make sure it’s in good shape. Ask the seller what range they are getting now.
But be skeptical. The most accurate metric to judge battery health (without straight-up testing it with special equipment) is knowing the number of charge cycles of the battery. This is how many times the battery has been charged. Battery performance naturally decreases over time, but quality batteries have a solid range for up to 500 to 1,000 charge cycles, or thousands of miles.
Bosch, for example, guarantees that its batteries will have at least 60% capacity remaining after 500 charge cycles. Specialized and Giant also rate their e-Bike batteries for more than 1,000 charge cycles. Upway includes the number of battery charge cycles on every e-Bike’s listing, so you can know exactly what you’re getting. All e-Bikes sold at Upway have batteries that measure at 80% or higher of their original capacity, and many new models with just one charge cycle.
But be skeptical. The most accurate metric to judge battery health (without straight-up testing it with special equipment) is knowing the number of charge cycles of the battery. This is how many times the battery has been charged. Battery performance naturally decreases over time, but quality batteries have a solid range for up to 500 to 1,000 charge cycles, or thousands of miles.
Bosch, for example, guarantees that its batteries will have at least 60% capacity remaining after 500 charge cycles. Specialized and Giant also rate their e-Bike batteries for more than 1,000 charge cycles. Upway includes the number of battery charge cycles on every e-Bike’s listing, so you can know exactly what you’re getting. All e-Bikes sold at Upway have batteries that measure at 80% or higher of their original capacity, and many new models with just one charge cycle.
Quality brand
Another green flag when buying a used e-Bike is a quality, well-known brand. Top brands like Gazelle, Trek, Riese & Müller, and more make excellent e-Bikes that are built to last. They come with quality motors and batteries that perform well for years and can serve multiple owners well. The brakes and drivetrains are also of better quality, and there’s better part availability if you need to make any repairs.
Ownership history
Knowing you owned the electric bike before you is another green flag. Ask for the original receipt or proof of purchase if you’re buying from an individual seller. Upway, for example, lists from where and when we received the e-Bike.
Certified inspection & professionally reconditioned
You want to purchase an e-Bike that’s ready to go, not a big garage project that will collect dust before it’s finally up and running. Upway and other certified pre-owned e-Bike stores or marketplaces professionally recondition the bikes. At Upway, every e-Bike we sell undergoes our 50-point inspection process— anything that doesn’t meet our standards is repaired or replaced by our mechanics. We include a complete History and Inspection Report on each bike’s listing page.
Warranty
Upway provides a one-year warranty on all electric bikes, ensuring you’re covered. For private or transactions, e-Bike warranties generally don't transfer to a bike’s second owner. Local bike shops may also offer a warranty on the used electric bikes they sell.
Red flags to avoid when buying a used e-Bike
Signs of neglect or damage
Stay clear of a used e-Bike that shows serious signs of neglect or damage. This goes beyond the normal wear and tear and can indicate that the bike wasn’t taken care of throughout its life. Things like a rusty chain, balding tires, and malfunctioning brakes can be clues that the e-Bike requires immediate service, which can be costly. Also, check the frame carefully and look for cracks, dents, or evidence of a previous crash.
Old battery
If the bike is in iffy shape and the mileage count is very high, it may not be worth it. An old battery will provide a reduced range and require replacement soon, costing several hundred dollars. Make sure the original battery charger is included— if not, that’s a big red flag.
Ensure the bike isn’t stolen
Try your best to avoid buying a stolen bike. If you’re suspicious about the deal (i.e., super low price or lack of ownership history). Run the serial number against a bike registry like Project 529.
Consider the cost of needed repairs
If there’s a laundry list of repairs required, it’s going to cost you. Maybe it’s still a worthwhile purchase, but keep that in mind. Remember that there are tons more electric bikes out there, and making the right purchase should feel right, rather than a gamble.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Upway get its electric bikes?
What is the warranty on Upway bikes?
Upway offers a one-year limited warranty on all its e-Bikes that covers mechanical and electrical defects. We also provide guaranteed delivery and will compensate as warranted in the rare case of any shipping damage.
How much do electric bikes cost?
A good-quality electric bike usually costs between $2,000 and $4,000 at retail, though premium models can run much higher. At Upway, you can find both new and pre-owned e-Bikes from leading brands—often at discounts of up to 60%!
Key Takeaways
- Battery health and charge cycles are critical: Look for batteries with high capacity and under 500 charge cycles.
- Brand reputation matters: Buy from recognized manufacturers known for durable components and part availability.
- Certified inspections and warranties offer peace of mind: Buy from sellers like Upway to avoid hidden issues and costly repairs.
