You don’t need to break the bank to score a top-tier electric bike. It all comes down to B-stock: a special category of almost-new e-bikes that may have merely cosmetic dings, open-box returns or ex-display cycles offered at deep discounts. This guide will lead you through the world of B-stock bargains and show how to snag a top-spec e-bike for less than half price, as well as pick out some of the best deals available right now.
ENGWE: The Bargain Powerhouse
Whether you’re looking for the next level value, performance and technology; ENGWE provides the solution. The brand has been so successful at giving you way more than what you pay for that even new models are seen as bargain buys. Their ENGWE L20 3.0 Pro is their flagship model and a work of art when it comes to getting around the city. It sets a new level of ride comfort with the full suspension system that can absorb up to 90% of road vibration from the pavement, unexpected shocks, bumps and here-and-there potholes which are commonly found underneath. You know what? It is indeed something that you wouldn’t normally find in other compact e-bikes! That makes for a smoother than smooth ride over pavement or on any city street. That’s all backed up by a serious Mivice 250W mid-drive unit, pushing out an astounding 100Nm of torque for rapid acceleration and easy climbing.
The L20 3.0 Pro key benefits are:
- Huge Range: 720Wh Samsung battery to deliver a market-leading level of up to 170km of real-world range using the eco setting for your daily commutes or weekend adventure.
- Fast Charge: Car charger allows you to charge faster than other 3A car chargers.
- Enhanced Security: Comes with a built-in ENGWE IoT module that provides smart theft prevention and monitoring (GPS tracking, real-time alerts and app control), you can have peace of mind knowing your e-bike is being closely monitored at all times.
- Quality Equipment: Quality builds with a focus on durable functionality from the intuitive power of the torque sensor for excellent power delivery, to the quality of the hydraulic dual-piston brakes and puncture-resistant tires.
- User-Friendly Design: The foldable step-through frame makes the e-bike easily accessible, as well as easy to store; while the 3.5-inch color display allows for easy reading of information.
What Exactly Is B-Stock?
To effectively be able to find bargains, you need to know exactly what “B-Stock” is. It is a catch-all term for stock that cannot be sold as brand new but is also not second-hand and instead in perfect working condition. Knowing the differences will help you find the best value. Knowing exactly what you're after can help you sift through listings and find the deals that yield the biggest savings for the smallest flaws. This information gives you the confidence to choose and prevents surprises.
Below are the most popular categories of B-grade electric bikes that you’re most likely to encounter:
- Open-Box Returns: The e-bikes you see here are the ones that were returned by a customer who buys and returns it within 7/14 days of purchase. Frequently in excellent, like-new shape where little if any riding was done on it.
- Cosmetic Blemishes: These units are mechanically perfect, but have slight cosmetic blemishes on the frame or minor scratches or paint scuffs that happened in shipping, or at the factory.
- Ex-Display: E-bikes that have been used for display purposes in a showroom. They probably were sat on or test-ridden in a sample situation but they have very few miles.
- Renewed Units: These are pre-owned e-bikes that have been inspected, taken through diagnostics and restored to full working condition by a manufacturer or manufacturer-approved vendor. They have some of the deepest discounts.
- Overstock or End-of-Line Models: Occasionally, older models that are being replaced by new stock will be unloaded at a discount. These are unused, but at the B-stock price.
Top B-Stock Brands to Watch
While ENGWE gives an exceptional experience, there are more deals to be found in the B-stock market with a few other big name brands. This listing can be a great place to look for something that fits a very narrow set of needs, whether it’s a beamy cargo hauler, or an ultralight folding commuter. The trick is to target brands that have been in the B-stock or outlet business for some time, because this means they will already have a well-honed quality control process and good customer service. Here are nine other great brands and model types to look out for, along with a chart comparing a few different styles for you to see in your mind’s eye what all these options could mean.
- Rad Power Bikes: Spot savings on the RadRunner, a versatile and custom utility e-bike.
- Aventon: The Aventon Pace series is often selected for its attractive design and practical urban commuting features.
- Lectric E-Bikes: Their XP series provides amazing bang for the buck in the folding e-bike division.
- Ride1Up: The 700 Series, frequently in stock and packed with niceties like hydraulic brakes and a good drivetrain.
- Juiced Bikes: Look for their CrossCurrent models, which are high speed and long range.
- Himiway: These fat-tire cruisers are great for all-terrain explorations and frequently available on sale.
- Specialized: B-stock Turbo Vado models offer an opportunity to own a top-of-the-line commuter e-bike from one of the most iconic brands.
- Trek: Recycled Allant+ models provide best-in-class performance and build quality.
- Cannondale: Check their Adventure Neo for a comfort-oriented, upright ride.
| Feature | Aventon Pace 500.3 (Commuter) | Lectric XP Lite (Folding) | Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 2 (Utility) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Urban Commuting, Fitness | Portability, Short Trips | Hauling Cargo, Versatility |
| Motor Type | Rear Hub | Rear Hub | Rear Hub |
| Top Speed (Assisted) | 28 mph max | 20 mph max | 20 mph max |
| Weight | Approx. 52 lbs | Approx. 46 lbs | Approx. 65 lbs |
| Key Feature | Torque sensor, integrated lights | Ultra light and sleek design | High payload capacity, ecosystem of accessories |
Where and When to Find the Best Deals
Knowing what to shop for is only half the battle; knowing where and when to shop is key in securing the best deals. The best deals you’ll find are typically at certain times of year and on specific platforms. With a little strategy behind where and how you look for a B-stock Electric Bike, your chance of scooping up an awesome on-bike deal is increased tenfold! The real get is the one bag they can’t afford, an itch they anticipate and attempt to plan around as best they possibly can, setting up alerts and checking their favorite sites regularly.
Where to Score the Best B-Stock E-Bike Deals:
- Official Brand Websites: Some of the most popular brands, such as those mentioned above, maintain an "Outlet," "Sale," or "Refurbished" section on their official websites. It’s the safest place to buy, since the bikes are factory certified.
- Authorized Third-Party Refurbishers: There are some companies (the Other Sites) that sell certified pre-owned and open-box electronics, plus vehicles and sometimes e-bikes. They give their own inspection reports and warranties, too.
- Major Cycling Retailers: The big bike shops on the internet frequently have a clearance section with ex-display models and bikes with damaged packaging.
When to Hunt for Bargains:
- Off-Season: The season is fall and early winter (September - December) when model year inventory in most categories needs to be cleared out to make room for next year’s new models.
- Major Sales Holidays: B-stock sales are red hot on Black Friday, Cyber Monday and other major holidays when retailers need to clear inventory fast.
- After a Model Is Released: When an awesome e-bike has been launched, you will also find the older version in the B-stock market with huge discounts.
Your Pre-Purchase B-Stock Checklist
Before the deal is sealed, it's important to do a once-over checklist that makes sure you're getting exactly what you think. B-stock e-bikes can be great values, but a little bit of due diligence may save you some headaches later down the road. This requires close inspection of the product listing, comprehension of the sale terms and scrutiny of the seller’s legitimacy. Don't rush your purchase; a deal is not a deal if the product sucks and you cannot return it with a fair policy.
Here’s your pre-purchase B-stock guide:
- Read the Fine Print on the Warranty: Is there a warranty included with the purchase of your e-bike? Specify how long it lasts and what it includes. The warranty for B-stock goods is usually not as long as that of new items, but it should still cover your frame, motor and battery for an acceptable amount of time.
- Know the Return Policy: See if returns are allowed at all, and what rules apply. You should demand that a reputable seller give you at least 14 days to return the bike in case it arrives with an undisclosed issue.
- Do the Math: Read the description carefully, and look at all photos. Is the damage cosmetic (scratch/scuff) or structural (frame dents/ruptures)? Always choose a bike with only very small cosmetic issues.
- Verify Battery Condition: The description will tell you if the battery is new or used. If you are buying a used battery, see if there is any information on its health or cycle count.
- Confirm What Comes with the Bike: Make sure that batteries, charger, keys for the battery lock and user manual are included in the sale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between B-stock and used?
Most B-stock items are used, however some items have been inspected and refurbished by the manufacturer. A “used” e-bike is commonly sold by a private individual, with no guarantee and no inspection.
Can one trust the battery on a B-stock e-bike?
Yes, in most cases. Honest vendors will make sure the battery charges correctly. The battery is typically brand new and hasn't seen use in open-box or cosmetic blemish models. And don’t forget to verify the seller’s policy on battery health.
Will I save a lot if I buy B-stock?
Absolutely. Savings are generally in the 20% to 40% off full retail range which may help make a higher-spec model, or features you thought would be out of reach, affordable.
Now, armed with this information you're ready to go out and find the best High-Performance Electric Bike without worry of getting duped!
