Yes, they're carefully checked, serviced and tested by specialists, then sold with a guarantee of safety and quality.
Are reconditioned electric bikes reliable?
Written by: Hanna Stevens | October 15, 2025 | Reading time: 5 minutes
Yes, reconditioned e-bikes are solid and safe. These e-bikes are meticulously inspected, repaired and tested by professionals on more than 20 essential points, such as the motor, battery and brakes. And they come with a warranty, for added security. In this article, find out what a refurbished e-bike is, why more and more consumers are choosing this affordable and environmentally-friendly option, and what to look out for when buying...
More about the author: Hanna Stevens
Hanna is an avid cyclist who loves exploring new routes and sharing her experiences to inspire others to get on their bikes more often.
What is a refurbished electric bike?
A refurbished electric bike is a used bike that has been fully checked, serviced and tested before being put back on the road. The aim is to make it technically optimal, safe and reliable, often comparable to a new bike. According to iVOX data (2023), 48% of Dutch people believe that a refurbished bike is as reliable as a new product. Buying a refurbished bike saves up to 60% compared with a new model.
What's the difference between a refurbished bike and a used bike?
A used bike is sold in its current condition, without warranty or technical inspection.
A refurbished bike, on the other hand, has been fully inspected, repaired and tested by specialists, often with parts replacement and warranty included.
It is therefore more reliable and safer, whereas a second-hand bike may have hidden defects.
A study by the Consumentenbond (2025) compared in detail the purchase of a used and a refurbished bike.
What do you check on a refurbished bike?
At Upway, each bike is inspected and restored at 20 checkpoints.
Here are the most important ones:
The 20 Upway inspection points
- Engine and assistance
- Battery
- Charger
- Screen
- Lighting
- 6. Frame
- Front and rear wheels
- Forks
- Handlebars
- Handlebars
- Handles
- Brakes
- Speeds
- Seat post
- Saddle
- Pedals
- Cranks
- Pedals
- Channel
- tires
Why choose a refurbished electric bike?
More and more users are opting for refurbished for its combination of reliability, economy and respect for the environment.
- Low price: up to 60% less than a new bike.
- Guarantee and safety: every bike is inspected and repaired by professionals.
- Sustainability: re-use extends the life of bikes and reduces waste and CO₂ emissions.
- Quality: thorough technical inspection for safe, comfortable driving.
- Service: specialized dealers offer personalized support and advice.
What to look out for when buying a used electric bike?
Pay attention to :
- Battery and engine status, and number of kilometers traveled.
- How pedal assist works.
- Condition of frame and brakes.
- Maintenance history.
Preferably buy from a reliable dealer offering a warranty, for maximum peace of mind.
new or refurbished : which to choose?
| Aspect | new | refurbished |
|---|---|---|
| Price | High | Low to medium, up to 60% less expensive |
| Warranty | Complete, often 2 years or more | Usually 1 year, depending on seller |
| Technical status | Perfect, straight from the factory | Checked, parts replaced if necessary |
| Risks | Weak, everything is new | Lightweight, depending on dealer |
| Durability | Less environmentally friendly (new parts) | More sustainable thanks to reuse |
| Availability | New models, new technologies | Older models, depending on stock |
Conclusion
Reconditioned electric bikes offer an excellent balance between quality, reliability and price. Thanks to a complete inspection of over 20 points, including motor, battery and brakes, these bikes are technically as good as new. They are often sold with a warranty, at a reduced price, and represent a sustainable choice for the environment.
Key findings
1. Carefully tested and reliable: reconditioned electric bikes are professionally inspected on more than 20 points, repaired and sold with warranty.
2. Affordable and long-lasting: Up to 60% less expensive than new, and more environmentally friendly thanks to the reuse of parts.
3. Difference from second-hand: refurbished means technically tested and safe, whereas second-hand is sold without warranty or verification.
Frequently asked questions
Are reconditioned electric bikes as reliable as new ones?
What's the difference between a refurbished bike and a used bike?
A used bike is sold as is, without warranty or inspection.
A refurbished bike is professionally inspected, repaired and tested, often with new parts and warranty, so it's safer and more reliable.
What to look out for when buying a refurbished electric bike?
Check the warranty conditions, the condition of the battery and motor, and make sure the bike has been checked by an authorized professional.
Also ask for a maintenance report and whether essential components have been replaced.