Where to buy the best used electric bikes?
The best place to buy a used electric bike is a certified platform like Upway, because it offers a warranty, technical inspection and consumer protection. Here we compare all the options according to price, risk and safety.
Written by : Hanna Stevens | 4 november 2025 | Reading time: 6 minutes
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.
Key findings
- Safety + warranty: certified platformUpway): 1-year warranty, 20-point technical inspection
- Lowest price: Private customer via Marktplaats: 30% cheaper, but no guarantee
- Local service: Bike store: on-site advice, limited offer
- Professional use: leasing bike (return): well-maintained, higher mileage
Why is the second-hand market exploding?
The share of electric bicycles in the Netherlands reached 57% in 2023 (source: RAI Vereniging). More sales = more leasing returns and trade-ins, so more choice for buyers.
Three main reasons:
- New bike prices continue to rise (average: €2,200 - €3,500)
- Sustainability increasingly important (fewer production emissions)
- Refurbished platforms now offer guarantees
Where can I buy a used electric bike?
1. Certified platformUpway)
Advantages :
- 20-point inspection by technicians
- 1-year warranty on motor, battery and electronics
- Battery capacity test (exact measurement in Wh)
- Home delivery
Price (2025) :
| Type of bike | refurbished | new | Economy |
|---|---|---|---|
| City bike | 1 200-2 400 € | 2 200-3 500 € | 35-45 % |
| Cargo bike | 2 000-3 800 € | 4 000-7 500 € | 40-50 % |
| Speed pedelec | 2 800-6 000 € | 5 000-11 000 € | 40-45 % |
Examples:
- Gazelle Ultimate C380 (Bosch engine) - from €1,850
- Riese & Müller Load 60 (cargo bike) - from €3,200
- Stromer ST2speed pedelec) - from €3,800
To choose if: you want security. The warranty means there are no nasty surprises at €500-1,500.
2. Individuals via Marktplaats
Advantages :
- Lowest prices (20-30% below refurbished)
- Direct negotiation
Risks :
- No warranty and no right of return
- Often hidden loss of battery capacity (up to 30-40%)
- Stolen bike risk
- Non-visible damage
Choose if: you know how to evaluate the technology and the seller provides proof of purchase. After 3 years, a 500 Wh battery is often down to 350-400 Wh, i.e. 30-40% less autonomy.
3. Bike store
Advantages :
- 3 to 12 months warranty
- Trial + personalized advice
- Service nearby
Disadvantages :
- Limited choice (5 to 15 bikes)
- 10-20% more expensive than online
4. Return of leasing
Advantages :
- Professional interview every 6 months
- Transparent state
Disadvantages :
- High mileage (15,000-25,000 km)
- Battery often at 60-70% capacity
Checklist: essential points to check
| Element | To be checked | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Wh capacity, load cycles | Determines autonomy |
| Engine | Make (Bosch/Shimano), torque (Nm) | Durability and power |
| Mileage | Displayed on screen | Indicates wear (watch out for resets) |
| Brakes | Minimum 2-3 mm wafer | Security |
| Frame number | Check on police.nl | Prevent theft |
| Software | Active updates | Especially for smart bikes |
Nm (Newton-meter): indicates power.
50 Nm = urban use / 65-85 Nm = cargo or relief.
Practical test at a private home
- Noise - crackling = engine problem
- Delayed assistance - the motor must react instantly
- Battery test - drive 10 km in maximum mode, observe loss
- Display errors - note the codes and search for them online
- Load bearing - checks for corrosion
Which brands retain their value best?
Premium (30-40% loss after 2 years):
Mid-range (40-50% loss) :
Watch out for VanMoof: bankruptcy in 2023, rare pieces. Price -60 to -70%, but risky.
The same caution applies to Cowboy.
Battery: the heart of the electric bike
The battery represents 60% of the value.
A 500 Wh battery costs €600-900 new (source: Bosch-ebike.com).
Average capacity loss :
- 5-10% per year
- After 3 years: 70-85
- After 5 years: 60-70
Example:
500 Wh →
- after 2 years: 450 Wh (80 km instead of 90 km)
- after 4 years: 350 Wh (60 km instead of 90 km)
Minimum recommended capacity :
| Type | Minimum | Ideal |
|---|
Belt vs. chain
Over 5 years (10,000 km/year) :
- Chain: 12-15 replacements = €200-600 + maintenance
- Belt: 1-2 replacements = €80-300
Savings of €200-400, without dirty hands.Gates Carbon Drive is quiet and maintenance-free. Find out more about the differences between belt and chain drives in our blog.
Conclusion: what is the best option?
- Budget < €1,500 : refurbished city bikeUpway)
- DIY: Individuals via Marktplaats - 30% savings
- Family: refurbished cargo bike - €2,000-4,000 in savings
- Long distances: Speed pedelec leasing - check the battery
Golden rule: the warranty costs a little more, but avoids €500-1,500 of unpleasant surprises.
Start with a refurbished model from a reliable brand (Gazelle, Batavus, Kalkhoff).
Check the battery capacity, ask for the maintenance report and do at least a 10 km test ride before you buy.
FAQ
How much does a battery lose per year?
On average 5-10%, depending on charge cycles and temperature. After 500 cycles, around 80% remains.
What is a good battery capacity?
400 Wh minimum for city use, 500-700 Wh for work, 900 Wh+ for speed pedelecs. Add 20% margin for winter.
Best value for money?
Gazelle, Batavus or Kalkhoff refurbished with Bosch motor and battery ≥ 500 Wh.
Expect a 40-50% discount on new.
Why are VanMoofs so cheap?
Bankruptcy in 2023, rare parts and uncertain software.
For DIY enthusiasts only.
Motor life?
Bosch and Shimano: 25,000-40,000 km (5-8 years).
Basic brands: 15,000-25,000 km.