Check four things before you pay: that the bike isn’t stolen, that the battery is healthy and comes with its key and charger, that a local shop can service the motor system, and that the bike is legal to ride as an e-bike.
Is it stolen?
Find the serial number stamped into the frame, usually under the bottom bracket where the pedal cranks meet. Winnipeg police note that it’s imprinted in the metal, not on a sticker, and that numbers starting with “TH” are usually stock numbers rather than serial numbers.
The RCMP encourages buyers to have the serial number checked against the police database (CPIC) before buying a second-hand bike, so ask your local police service to run it. You can also search it on registries such as Project 529, which the Vancouver Police Department recommends to owners.
Walk away if the serial number has been filed off, if the seller can’t say where the bike came from, or if the price is far below similar bikes.
Battery
The battery is one of the most expensive parts to replace, so check it closely.
- Look for swelling, cracks, dents or leaks. Health Canada says never to use a damaged battery.
- Make sure the seller has the battery key. Most removable batteries lock to the frame.
- Get the original charger. Health Canada says to follow the maker’s instructions for charging.
- Ask how old the battery is and how far the bike goes on a charge now.
- If you can, have a shop test the battery before you buy. Each city page lists shops that offer battery testing.
Motor system and service
Find the motor brand, printed on the motor casing or the display. In our listings, shops that limit what they repair nearly always accept mid-drive systems from Bosch, Shimano, Brose, Fazua and TQ, and often turn away unbranded hub motors and modified bikes. Our guide to repairing online-bought e-bikes shows which shops in each city take which systems.
Ask whether the bike has been modified, such as a raised speed limit, a different battery or a conversion kit. A modified bike is harder to get serviced.
Is it legal?
Check the motor’s rated power and the speed where assistance stops. Every province we’ve checked limits e-bikes to 500 W and 32 km/h; see Are 750W e-bikes legal in Canada?. Your province’s rules page covers the age and helmet rules.
Test ride and paperwork
- Ride it at every assist level, and check that the motor cuts out when you stop pedalling or brake.
- Check the brakes, tires and chain. E-bikes tend to wear these faster than regular bikes because of the extra weight and speed.
- Ask for the original receipt and manual. Some makers’ warranties don’t transfer to a second owner, and the receipt helps with service.
- Get a written bill of sale with the serial number, the price, the date and both names.