Written by: Rémy Rossi | October 20, 2025 | Time to read 4 min
Before you buy that dream e-Bike, make sure it’s yours to ride— not someone else’s problem in disguise.
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.
If you choose to buy a used e-Bike from a local listing, ask the seller about the history of the bike. Most sellers are genuine and simply selling their old e-Bike, but there are some shady deals out there to watch out for. Sellers may try to make a profit on a stolen bike or one with hidden damage. Bike purchases through private transactions don’t come with fresh warranties, and most existing warranties won’t transfer to a second owner.
Ask questions like:
It’s up to your discretion whether to close the deal based on the information you’ve gathered. But if the price is too good to be true, something’s fishy.
Upway has partnered with Project 529 to enhance e-Bike security and defend against bike theft. Project 529’s international allows users to register their bikes and enables law enforcement to track stolen bicycles. In the event of theft, users can report their bike as stolen via the Project 529 app, which notifies local users and flags the bike within the system.
Upway includes a complimentary registration kit with each e-Bike, providing riders with the information to register their bike and apply a tamper-resistant 529 Shield decal. This collaboration aims to build trust in the second-hand e-Bike market by ensuring that all bikes bought and sold through Upway are verified and legitimate.
Browse Upway’s wide selection of fast, fun, and practical electric cargo bikes!
How can I register my e-Bike with Project 529?
Every Upway e-Bike comes with a free registration kit and a 529 Shield decal.
1. Download the Project 529 app – Scan the QR code or get it from your app store.
2. Register your bike – Enter details like serial number, model, and manufacturer. Serial numbers are usually under the bottom bracket.
3. Apply the 529 Shield – Stick the tamper-resistant decal on your seat tube. It’s unique to your bike and can’t be moved.
We’re happy to answer any questions you have or provide you with an estimate. Just send us a message in the form below with any questions you may have.
