Source: SAZBike

A study in Germany has explored the motivations around the purchasing of refurbished e-bikes, with the results revealing clear consumer preferences for specialist retailers with an assurance of quality control.

The study, conducted by market research specialists Appinio and commissioned by Rebike Mobility, revealed a high level of fundamental interest in refurbished e-bikes among consumers, with the willingness to buy professionally reconditioned bikes at 61.8%. This is comparable to levels associated with refurbished smartphones and other established products.

The study identifies four key factors that influence consumer confidence regarding used e-bikes:

• An individual inspection and reconditioning report – 49.1%
• Independent test results – 40.9%
• Familiarity of bike brand – 30.5%
• Familiarity of motor manufacturer – 28.1%

Study scope

The study was conducted in April 2026, surveying 1,000 people between the ages of 16 to 65, with quotas ensuring a representative sample in terms of age and gender. The study was designed to assess mobility behaviour, intent to purchase, and the motivation for buying refurbished e-bikes.

A clear preference for professional services

• 53.4% of respondents would prefer to buy from a professional refurbisher
• 28.1% would buy from a brick-and-mortar retailer
• 11.8% would buy through a private sale

This overwhelming preference for a professional refurbishing service shows that consumers increasingly expect the same standards with used e-bikes as new, such as standardised testing processes, warranties, and transparent documentation regarding the refurbishment work.

Opportunities for retail and refurbishment cooperation

In Germany, a growing proportion of used e-bikes are from lease returns, creating the need for systematic handling of the refurbishment process. There are opportunities for specialist retailers to cooperate with refurbishment specialists such as Rebike Mobility through trade-in programs; through the Rebike B2B portal, retailers can take used e-bikes in part-exchange when customers purchase new ones, and Rebike handles the evaluation, collection and refurbishment.

Thomas Bernik, CEO and Co-founder of Rebike Mobility, explains: “Buying a used e-bike is no longer a compromise, but a conscious purchasing decision – provided that quality and origin are transparent. Consumers today naturally expect test reports, warranties, and traceable refurbishment. Refurbishers and specialist retailers can meet this demand better together than either of them alone.”