A quality electric bike lasts 8 to 12 years. The battery usually needs replacing after 5 to 6 years.
What are the most sustainable electric bike brands? Guide 2025
Written by: Hanna Stevens | October 14, 2025 | Reading time: 5 minutes
The longest-lasting e-bike brands are Gazelle, Kalkhoff, Riese & Müller, Trek and Cube. Thanks to their Bosch and Shimano motors, sturdy frames and good availability of spare parts, they have an average lifespan of 8 to 12 years, provided they are well maintained. Gazelle and Riese & Müller are Upway 's best-selling brands in Belgium and the Netherlands.
Find out in this guide which brands represent a good investment and what to look out for.
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 determines the lifespan of an electric bike?
The longevity of an e-bike depends on its quality, use, maintenance and environment.
- Components: The motor and battery are the weak points. A quality central motor and battery (Bosch, Shimano) generally last the longest.
- Use: Frequent riding in high assistance mode or in bad weather accelerates wear.
- Maintenance: Cleaning, lubricating and replacing parts on time prevents problems.
- Storage: Keep the battery dry and at room temperature to slow its ageing process.
What is the average lifespan of an electric bike?
A good-quality electric bike lasts an average of 8 to 12 years. The battery is often the first to need replacing, usually after 5 to 6 years. The motor and frame can last longer if well maintained. Poor storage or intensive use can reduce the lifespan to 3 to 5 years.
Which electric bike brands last the longest?
According to durability studies and tests carried out by Fietsen De Geus (2025), German and Dutch brands stand out for their longevity. Their attention to motor quality, frame strength and battery reliability make them favorites for long trips.
- Riese & Müller: German manufacturer renowned for its robust frames, eco-friendly production and high-end components. Uses a lot of recycled aluminum and focuses on long-term reliability.
- Gazelle: A Dutch brand that has been in business for over 130 years, Gazelle is renowned for its reliable mid-range and top-of-the-range models, which excel in endurance tests.
- Kalkhoff: German brand popular for velotafts and long distances thanks to its solid motors and batteries.
- Batavus and Sparta: emblematic brands in the Netherlands, combining quality and innovation. Batavus scores highly in consumer tests.
- Santos: Known for its modular construction and robustness. Parts are easily replaceable or upgradeable, extending service life.
- Oxford: Belgian brand combining sustainable local production and European components.
| Brand | Estimated service life | Atout |
|---|---|---|
| Gazelle | 8-10 years | Reliable, low-maintenance |
| Kalkhoff | 9+ years | Solid construction, good autonomy |
| Riese & Müller | 10+ years | Premium components |
| Trek | 8-10 years | Light frames, stable driving |
| Cube | 8-9 years | Sports models |
The Batavus, Sparta, Santos and Oxford brands also score well in terms of sustainability. Oxford, in particular, stands out for its local production with European components.
How can you extend the life of your e-bike?
The lifespan of an electric bike is extended above all by good maintenance, especially of the battery.
- Maintain tires pressure to reduce engine load.
- Recharge the battery at room temperature and avoid extreme temperatures.
- Always use the original charger.
- Drive efficiently: change gear at the right moment, especially at low speed.
- Avoid full discharge: recharge regularly, even after long periods of inactivity.
- Protect electrical contacts and dry them after rain.
- Have regular maintenance carried out, including software updates and brake checks.
Conclusion
The most durable electric bike brands are Gazelle, Kalkhoff, Riese & Müller, Trek and Cube. Their reliable Bosch and Shimano motors, sturdy frames and good after-sales service guarantee an average lifespan of 8 to 12 years.
Refurbished models from these brands can even last several years longer.
Key findings
1. Leading brands: Gazelle, Kalkhoff, Riese & Müller, Trek and Cube have the longest service life (8 to 12 years).
2. Factors: Quality, maintenance and storage determine longevity.
3. Battery: the weak point; good maintenance considerably extends its life.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the average e-bike last?
Which electric bike brand is the most reliable?
Riese & Müller, Gazelle and Kalkhoff are renowned for their reliability thanks to their Bosch motors and durable frames.
Does a refurbished electric bike last as long as a new one?
Yes, if it is professionally revised.
A refurbished e-bike from a top-of-the-range brand often retains 70-90% of its original lifespan.