BikeFlex launch trade only ‘used approved’ platform for eBikes

BikeFlex, the bike leasing company, are launching a remarketing platform called BikeStock to handle retailer trade-ins, end of lease stock and defleeted stock from businesses.

With the projected growth in the volumes of eBikes and cargo bikes, the Bike Stock ‘trade to trade only’ remarketing platform will offer eBike OEMs and their dealer networks a platform from which to remarket ‘used approved’ eBikes at the end of the lease.

Operating strictly as a trade to trade auction, BikeStock will enable authorised dealers of OEMs to acquire or dispose of refurbished eBikes and cargo bikes in a responsible manner and without depreciating the brand.

Unlike other marketplaces that allow consumers to buy or sell used eBikes, BikeStock will be dealer only and not compete with retailers for end customers.

Crucially, BikeStock aims to resolve warranty issues for eBike resales which are typically untransferable to the next owner. By only working with stock from authorised dealers we can ensure the eBikes have been properly serviced and we will work with manufacturers to create an extended warranty programme to create a robust circular economy for eBikes and cargo bikes. Says Co-Founder, Tim Hammond.

The BikeStock model is similar to dealer only auctions operated by the car industry where thousands of cars are defleeted from leases each month and the best ones offered back to authorised dealers.

Advisors from the car remarketing and auction sector are working with BikeStock to develop the platform.

The eBike sector, with its expected growth means that there will be demand for BikeStock’s platform from dealers looking to offload stock as well as acquire attractively priced, good quality refurbished stock for their customers. As well as consumers buying or leasing this pre-owned stock from our retail partners we expect to see an increasing number of businesses looking to lease pre-owned stock for their fleets, which is ethical and more affordable.

BikeStock are partnering with Fettle to provide a just in time refurbishment service to ensure units go back out to dealers in a ready to ride condition, along with a used eBike warranty.

We believe that BikeStock’s remarketing platform will open up the opportunities for retailers to take in more trade-ins, and lenders to feel more comfortable with residual values, while safeguarding the OEM’s brand, by restricting access to dealers.

We know that OEMs don’t have the infrastructure to handle pre-owned or leased stock. We have experience of this market and are building the BikeStock platform to facilitate the growth, not just of the leasing market but also trade-ins. Says Hammond.