How much is your electric bike still worth after 6 years?

Six years is a long time in the world of e-bikes, where everything changes very quickly. Your 2020 bike has already covered many kilometers and weathered several seasons, while batteries, frames, and motors have come a long way.

Are you thinking about buying a new model, or do you simply want to sell your trusty bike? That raises an important question: How much is it worth today?

Hanna Stevens

Written by: Hanna Stevens | Published on: September 24, 2026 | 9-minute read

The Depreciation Curve: How Fast Does an Electric Bike Lose Value?

The value of an electric bike does not depreciate linearly. As with a car, the biggest drop in value occurs in the first year: as soon as the bike leaves the store, its value drops by 20% to 35%. After that, depreciation slows to an average of 10% to 15% per year.

After six years, an electric bike reaches a stable point. The teething problems have been ironed out and the technology has matured, but wear-and-tear parts require attention. The table below provides a realistic overview of residual value based on age, assuming normal signs of use and a system in good working order.

These are approximate figures. The final price depends on the make, model, condition, and market demand.

The 5 factors that determine value after 6 years

No two six-year-old e-bikes are ever quite alike. Even two models from the same year can differ in price by several hundred euros. Here are the five most important criteria.

1. Battery Capacity and Age-Related Degradation

After six years, a lithium-ion battery is affected not only by charge cycles but also by calendar aging—the natural chemical degradation of the cells, regardless of the number of kilometers driven. If your battery still delivers 70% to 80% of its original capacity, that’s excellent news for its residual value. If it’s low or worn out, buyers should expect replacement costs of €500 to €900.

2. Transmission and Engine Type

Mid-drive motors from reputable manufacturers such as Bosch, Shimano, Yamaha, and Brose retain their value significantly better after six years than front- or rear-hub motors. They are better balanced, offer a more natural pedaling feel, and have proven to be more durable over the long term. To better understand the differences, check out our guide to e-bike motors.

3. Mileage

A six-year-old electric bike typically has between 7,000 and 12,000 kilometers on the odometer. If it has fewer than 8,000 km, it is considered to have been used sparingly. If it has more than 15,000 km, buyers should expect to replace the sprockets, chain or belt, bearings, and brake rotors.

4. Brand, Model, and Components

Major brands such as Gazelle, Batavus, Trek, Koga, and Riese & Müller are highly sought after on the used market. Their replacement parts are easy to find, and bike shops can service them quickly. Niche brands or unbranded imported bikes lose their value much more quickly.

5. Documents and Accessories

A completed maintenance log, recent receipts from your bike shop, the original charger, and the two spare keys inspire confidence. Potential buyers immediately see these as signs that the bike has been well maintained.

Why Selling on 2ememain Often Runs Into Problems

If you try to sell a six-year-old electric bike to a private buyer, you’ll quickly run into what might be called the “replacement gap.” Private buyers are wary of a six-year-old battery. They assume it will soon fail and deduct the full cost of a new battery (€600 to €900) from your asking price. The result: low offers from resellers or never-ending negotiations.

"For a private buyer, a six-year-old battery is a risk. For a refurbisher, it's a component that can be tested and restored."

The Technical Value of Refurbishment

A specialized refurbisher like Upway takes a different approach to a six-year-old electric bike. Current wear and tear matters, but what matters most is what can be repaired. During the refurbishment process at Upway, our mechanics perform the following tasks, among others:

• Battery inspection and reconditioning: The battery is checked during the inspection and then reconditioned or replaced if its remaining capacity is less than 80% of its original capacity. An older battery is therefore not automatically deemed unusable.
• Bearings and software: Worn bearings are replaced and the bike's software is updated, ensuring that a 2020 Bosch or Shimano mid-drive motor will continue to provide years of enjoyment.
• A solid foundation: a high-end aluminum frame, high-quality hydraulic disc brakes (such as Shimano or Magura), and brand-name drivetrains ensure excellent long-term value. The hydraulic brakes are also bled.

Are you trying to decide between two motor options for your next bike? Find out which motor to choose between Bosch and Yamaha. Thanks to this approach, Upway can offer a fair, market-based price for a six-year-old e-bike—something a private seller wouldn’t dare to do.

Sell Your Electric Bike at Upway in 3 Steps

Don't want to deal with test rides, negotiations, and last-minute cancellations? On the " Sell Your Electric Bike" page, everything can be taken care of in three steps.

1. Describe your bike: make, model, year, mileage, and overall condition. The questionnaire takes less than 5 minutes to complete.
2. Get your quote: Within 24 hours, you'll receive a transparent offer based on factors such as your vehicle's value, mileage, and market demand.
3. Have your bike picked up or drop it off: Once approved, your bike will be picked up from your home free of charge, or you can drop it off yourself at the UpCenter in Mechelen. After inspection, the payment will be credited to your account within 3 to 5 business days.

Want to upgrade to a new bike right away? When you sell your old e-bike through Upway, you’ll receive a 100 € discount on an e-bike refurbished from our catalog.

Conclusion: How much is your electric bike worth after 6 years?

A well-maintained electric bike from a major brand typically resells for 15% to 20% of its original price new after six years. Where you fall within this range depends mainly on the battery, the type of motor, the mileage, the brand, and the documentation you can provide.

Selling to a private buyer is still an option, but the battery’s age often drives the price down. A refurbisher looks beyond the battery and evaluates the bike as a whole. Wondering which model to choose next? Our electric bike buying guide will help you make an informed decision.

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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.