Advantages of refurbished bikes
- Workshop tested and overhauled
- Right of return (up to 30 days)
- Guarantee
- 30 to 70 per cent cheaper
- Positive contribution to the CO2 balance
Disadvantages of refurbished bikes
- (still) manageable selection
- No full manufacturer's warranty
- Optical blemishes possible
A second-hand bike as an alternative to buying a new one? Until now, this was only an option for technology freaks and the brave. The risk of hidden defects or previous damage was too great, which could quickly turn a supposed bargain into a costly grave. Even technically experienced people can only roughly assess the actual condition of a used shock or telescopic seat post during an inspection. Buyers of second-hand mountain bikes had neither warranty nor right of return. Those who knew their way around and had the right instinct could find real bargains on the second-hand market. Everyone else was better off with a brand new bike. This is now changing with the new refurbished trend. Refurbished second-hand models with a guarantee and right of return are supposed to be an inexpensive alternative to buying a new bike and at the same time make a contribution to the environment. Buying a refurbished bike instead of a new one saves valuable resources.
Bikers can save between 30 and 70 per cent. Without any risk. The number of refurbished providers is still manageable, but it is growing. Companies like Rebike (focus on e-bikes), Tuvalum and Buycycle have sparked a trend. A new second-hand specialist is now entering the race with the Cologne-based start-up velio. Co-founder Christian Lenz answers the most important questions in an interview.
Our bikes are in no way inferior to new bikes. - Christian Lenz, co-founder velio
BIKE: In the past, used bikes were mainly traded privately. They were often not a real alternative to new bikes, as these were available in sufficient quantities and at attractive prices. What makes the trade in second-hand bikes so attractive for start-ups like velio?
Christian Lenz: There are two perspectives. The business perspective, but especially the consumer perspective. From the customer's point of view, we offer a number of advantages compared to buying new or second-hand from private individuals. The subject of trust: Our bikes are in no way inferior to new bikes. They come fully checked and with a 12-month warranty. In addition, used bikes are generally cheaper than new ones, which can be attractive for cost-conscious consumers. However, the issue of sustainability is very important to us: buying a used bike is more environmentally friendly as it helps to reduce waste and the demand for new products.
Where do the bikes that velio offers come from?
We obtain our bikes from various sources - including leasing returns, exhibition pieces from dealers, discarded bikes from large hire companies and, of course, used premium bikes from private individuals.
What makes refurbished bikes more attractive to customers than the classic second-hand bike from Ebay classifieds and the like?
Here you always have to recognise the difference between refurbished and used: While you buy a used bike on Ebay classifieds and similar portals without a warranty and usually in an unmaintained and uninspected condition, you get fully refurbished bikes from us. Every bike is thoroughly checked by our in-house mechanics and all necessary parts are replaced. This means that the customer receives a technically well-maintained bike that is in no way inferior to a new bike. Detailed pictures and our scoring system also give customers the opportunity to get a realistic impression of the bike's condition. We attach great importance to transparency here. In addition to the guarantee, all buyers also have a 30-day right of return. And: Not only are our bikes well maintained - the entire ordering process is also absolutely trustworthy.
Where are the prices compared to new bikes?
The bikes are between 20 and 60 per cent cheaper than new bikes.
Can the contribution to sustainability be expressed in figures? How much C02 is saved if I as a customer decide in favour of a refurbished MTB?
In concrete terms, this is not yet possible, which is primarily due to two fundamental determining factors. Firstly, the unknown emissions figures of the various manufacturers, resulting from production and supply chains. And secondly, the fact that every bike at velio is unique and the condition, extent of the general overhaul and logistics routes generally vary. Nevertheless, we have already addressed this issue and roughly analysed our impact on the environment through our logistics, refurbishment and packaging. Some manufacturers have already started to measure the CO2 emissions of their products. Trek, for example, states a CO2 footprint of 230 to 320 kilos of CO2 for its Rail e-bikes. Depending on the configuration. Taking our impact into account, a saving of up to 300 kilos of CO2 can be realised in most cases.
Does the range only include very recent models, for example leasing returns, or also bikes from older model years?
We focus on current models that are between one and three years old. Occasionally, however, you can also find an older bike that is up to five years old as an absolute bargain.
Can I trade in my old bike via velio?
Yes, that is possible. We prepare a customised offer for the customer based on our quality criteria. If the bike meets our requirements and the other party agrees, we will offset the bike against the purchase of a new model.
Where does the MTB industry currently stand in terms of sustainability?
It is difficult to make generalisations about the industry as a whole, as different companies and organisations take different approaches to sustainability. However, there are certainly some companies and organisations that are committed to more sustainable practices in the mountain bike industry. For example, some companies are using more environmentally friendly materials in the manufacture of their bikes, such as bamboo or recycled aluminium. Others are working on closed-loop supply chains where materials are recovered and reused. Overall, I think the industry is still in its infancy when it comes to integrating sustainability into its practices. But there are definitely some positive developments.
What is your vision at velio of a maximally sustainable bicycle industry?
My vision would be one in which all bicycles are manufactured using environmentally friendly materials and processes and are designed for maximum durability and reparability. The industry would prioritise reuse and recycling and there would be a strong emphasis on closed-loop supply chains where materials are continuously recovered and reused. In this vision, consumers would be encouraged to buy used or refurbished bikes whenever possible, and companies like velio form a robust market for trade-in and repair of used bikes. The bikes would be designed to be easily maintained and refurbished so that they can be used for many years to come. Overall, my vision of a maximally sustainable bicycle industry would prioritise the long-term health of the planet and its inhabitants over short-term profit.
Our opinion on refurbished bikes
The concept sounds exciting. Buying second-hand bikes from private owners is always associated with a residual risk and requires technical understanding and time for the search. With a refurbished bike, you can have peace of mind thanks to the right of return and guarantee. Nevertheless, before buying, you should research on the Internet whether the bike on offer is really a bargain or just a refurbished, technically dusty discontinued model. Also important: Don't be dazzled by the price tag alone! Even with the biggest bargains, you should always first clarify whether the bike is really the model you are looking for. The biggest discount is useless if you don't feel comfortable on the bike. Such a price cracker is not a bargain, but the proverbial shot in the dark. - Henri Lesewitz, BIKE Editor-in-Chief
