Buying A Used Electric Bike

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 via online markets, with sites such as Craigslist, but can also be done in person at garage sales and the like.

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. And if you can get a great deal on a used bike and it has the option, you may want to get another battery to swap out on the go to increase your range. For that be sure to check out these highly-rated batteries for electric bikes.

Helpful Tips for 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. To ensure that the electric bike you get is worth it make sure to follow these tips.

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? Is it ok if it’s an integrated battery, or do you need a removable battery? How powerful of a motor do you need, and what maximum speed do you need to be able to reach? Do you need an LCD screen display, and what does it need to show you? 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. You should also be clear on a buying price you can afford.

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.”

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. Also, listen to the motor to ensure that there isn’t a motor clicking noise, which could be a sign of a potential problem down the line. Additionally, we would recommend you ask for the original sales receipt of the sale from the previous owners if possible. Please keep in mind, that there are electric bicycle laws that can vary by state. So make sure to check your state’s regulations, before buying an electric bike, new or used.

Sources:

*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4ysdO6RYow