Key Takeaways:
- Buying a used electric bike can help consumers save some money while still receiving similar benefits to a brand new bike.
- Make a list before shopping online of “must-have” features and some of your favorite models of eBikes.
- Always ride the bike before making a purchase and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
A great way to save some money on an electric bike is to buy one used via an online marketplace such as Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist.
How to Buy a Used eBike
The very first thing you need to do while shopping for a used electric bike is to consistently check on local marketplaces. This can be done online, via sites such as Craigslist, but can also be done in person at garage sales and the like.
Helpful Tips to Picking a Pre-Owned Electric Bike
Electric bikes can be expensive, whether you are buying new or used. In the spirit of that fact, we have compiled some tips and guidelines to help you make sure you purchase a high-quality used electric bike.
Be Clear About Your Needs
A great first tip to take into consideration while shopping for a pre-owned eBike is to account for your needs. What will you be using the electric bike for? Will it primarily be used for commutes or will you be using it to explore wild areas? What kind of battery life are you looking for? How powerful of a motor do you need? We recommend doing some thorough research on the top electric bike brands and their top models. Make a list of what bikes catch your eye and try to find one of those in the pre-owned marketplace. You are not likely to find the exact match, but most of your needs should be met.
Tip: We recommend doing some thorough research on the top electric bike brands and their top models
Warning: You are not likely to find the exact match, but most of your needs should be met
Verify the Seller
Buying something online can be something of a gamble, so we recommend that you vet or verify the seller ahead of time. This can simply be done by asking for access to their personal Facebook page or by giving them a quick call to go over the details. If they seem hesitant to talk on the phone, or if something seems off, then they might be trying to pull a scam of some kind. The general should be “if it seems too good to be true, then it probably is.”
Tip: If they seem hesitant to talk on the phone, or if something seems off, then they might be trying to pull a scam of some kind. The general should be “if it seems too good to be true, then it probably is.”
Ride it First
Do not purchase a used electric bike without riding it first. We recommend going for a lengthy ride to ensure the battery can properly hold a charge and that the motor can activate the various pedal assist levels. You should also pay attention to other components within the bike, such as the wheels, the pedals, and the frame. Additionally, we would recommend you ask for a receipt of the original sale.
Tip: Do not purchase a used electric bike without riding it first
STAT:
You can never be 100% sure with carbon frames, but the absence of any visible damage is certainly a good sign. (Source)
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle_laws
*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4ysdO6RYow
https://electricbikereview.com/forums/threads/tips-from-an-e-bike-shop-owner-for-buying-a-used-electric-bike.24575/
