Been dreaming about flying past the traffic, wind in your hair, and feeling a little bit smug as you breeze past the gridlock? Maybe you’re already eyeing up an electric bike but you’re hesitating on the price. If you’re in the market and budget-conscious, a refurbished, second-hand eBike from Lug+Carrie might be the perfect option.
These Tern and Riese & Müller eBikes have been part of our subscription fleet and are ready for a second life. They’re an even more sustainable way to get all the Lug+Carrie goodness with less upfront investment. But, we know buying used can feel daunting. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying a second-hand electric eBike in Australia safely and legally.
Find out why a refurbished eBike might be the right fit for you.
What to consider when buying a used Electric Bike
Battery condition
The heart of any eBike is its lithium-ion battery. When looking at a used eBike, battery health is the most critical factor. In Australia, strict safety standards apply to batteries to prevent fire risks, so it’s really important to ensure the system hasn’t been tampered with or replaced with a cheap, non-compliant knock-off. A degraded battery doesn’t just mean less range; it can be a safety hazard. Always ask about the history of battery failure or replacements.
Lug+Carrie batteries are thoroughly checked. Because our eBikes have been in our subscription fleet, they’ve been regularly serviced. We provide a comprehensive battery health report so you can feel confident in your purchase.
General condition of the eBike
Beyond the electronics, you need to check the mechanical components. Inspect the frame for cracks, check the brake pads for wear, and ensure the tyres have tread. Whether it’s a city commuter or a mountain eBike, the general wear and tear can tell you a lot about how the previous owner treated it. If you aren’t a mechanic, taking it to a reputable eBike shop for a pre-purchase inspection is a good call.
Lug+Carrie eBikes get the VIP treatment. We understand that “refurbished eBike” might bring up a few question marks, but here are some things to help you feel more confident. Firstly, all of our eBikes are Bosch-powered Tern or Riese & Muller which are built to rigorous safety and quality standards and are known for their longevity. Because these eBikes have been in our subscription fleet, they’ve been regularly serviced and maintained by our team. Each eBike that comes back to us from a subscription customer receives a full-on spa treatment from our crew of experts (who love getting covered in grease so you never have to). They’ll ensure it meets rigorous safety and quality standards.
Motor and power system
The electric motor is what makes an eBike so fun—giving you that ‘superhuman legs’ feeling without the superhuman sweat—but it’s expensive to fix if it breaks. Listen for strange grinding noises and check for consistent power delivery. In Australia, the motor must comply with legal power limits (250W for pedal assist in most states). Be wary of modified motors, as these can render the eBike illegal on public roads. Reliability is key here, which is why the brand of the motor matters a lot.
The motor and power systems on Lug+Carrie eBikes are industry-leading. Just like our brand-new eBikes, our refurbished selection is powered by the Bosch system. Why Bosch? Because they’re renowned for their durability, performance, and power. They also meet all Australian eBike safety standards.
Odometer and mileage
Just like a car, an eBike’s odometer tells a story. However, on an electric eBike, you should also consider charge cycles. An eBike might have low kilometres but a battery that has been left flat for months, which is bad for its health. Conversely, a high-mileage eBike that has been serviced regularly might be a better buy than a low-mileage one that has been neglected.
The odometers on Lug+Carrie’s eBikes are transparent. We provide the full service history of our fleet eBikes. You’ll know exactly how much “love” your eBike has given to its previous riders, and we ensure it’s ready for many more kilometres.
After sales service and warranty
One of the biggest risks of buying a second-hand eBike for sale from a private seller is the lack of support. Once you hand over the cash, you’re on your own. If the motor fails a week later, there is no recourse. Buying from a recognised dealer or a refurbishment program usually offers some level of protection.
Lug+Carrie eBikes come with a warranty you can rely on. We’re confident in the quality of our refurbished models. That’s why every purchase comes with a 12-month warranty on the motor, giving you peace of mind with every pedal stroke. We’ll even include your first service free as well as a personalised handover to get you started.
Proper documentation
Never buy an eBike without proof of purchase or service records. In the world of high-value items like eBikes, theft is a reality. Proper documentation proves the eBike isn’t stolen and allows you to see if it has been maintained properly. It also ensures you can source parts in the future.
Lug+Carrie eBikes are fully documented. Knowing our refurbished eBike’s story is part of the package. Every eBike comes with a detailed service history. It’ll also come with a cool name like Cordelia, or Navin. We hope you like it, but we also won’t take it personally if you decide to change it.
What type of electric bike should I get?
Choosing the right refurbished eBike depends entirely on your lifestyle. We’ve curated a range of eBikes to help families ditch the car and solo riders transform their dreaded commute.
- For Families & Cargo: If you need to haul kids, groceries, the family dog, or a frankly unreasonable amount of snacks, we have a range of eBikes to suit! Check out our most popular family set ups here.
- For Comfort & Commuting: If you want a smooth ride to work or a weekend cruiser, check out our fave commuter set ups here.
If the upfront cost of a refurbished eBike doesn’t fit your budget right now, you don’t have to wait. With a Lug+Carrie subscription, you can get rolling immediately. Think of it as a long-term test drive. You get the full premium experience—including insurance, servicing and rider rescue—while keeping your options open. And thanks to our purchase pathways, your subscription money isn’t ‘dead money.’ All your payments can go towards purchasing your subscription bike (or a different one) whenever you’re ready to make it official.
Advantages and disadvantages of a used eBike
It’s important to weigh up the pros and cons before committing to a second-hand electric eBike:
Advantages:
- Cost-Effective: significantly cheaper than buying brand new.
- Sustainability: Gives an eBike a second life and reduces waste.
- High Specs for Less: You can often afford a premium brand (like Tern or Riese & Muller) used, for the price of a budget brand new.
Disadvantages
Unless your second-hand eBike is a refurbished one from Lug+Carrie, you do need to be weary about:
- Wear and Tear: Components may need replacing sooner than on a new eBike (brake pads, chains).
- Battery Risk: If buying privately, battery health is a gamble
- Warranty: Most used eBikes have no warranty
Shop reliable refurbished eBikes with Lug+Carrie
Choosing a refurbished eBike from Lug+Carrie isn’t just a cost-effective decision; it’s a smart one. You get the same high-quality Bosch-powered Tern or Riese & Müller engineering, the reassurance of our expert servicing, and the full support of the Lug+Carrie team—all at a price that’s easy on the pocket.
You don’t have to gamble on a gumtree ad. Get an eBike that meets all local eBike standards, comes with a warranty, and is ready to ride safely.
So, if this all sounds pretty good to you, let’s play matchmaker. Take a look at our range of refurbished eBikes here and come in for a spin to find ‘The One’?
