Most people buying and selling e-bikes are honest. A few are not. These are the scams we see most often, and the simple habits that stop them.
If you are buying
- Never pay a deposit to “hold” a bike you have not seen. Inspect it in person first.
- Too cheap is a warning sign. A near-new premium e-bike at half price is often stolen or does not exist.
- Check the serial. Ask for the frame serial and check it on EbikeMate before you go. At the inspection, make sure the number stamped on the frame matches.
- Ask for the receipt or other proof of ownership, and be wary if the seller’s name does not match.
- Meet somewhere public, in daylight — a police station car park is ideal.
If you are selling
- Fake payment screenshots and “pending” transfers. Do not hand over the bike until the money is actually in your account.
- Overpayment scams. A buyer “accidentally” pays too much and asks for a refund of the difference. Do not refund — the original payment will bounce.
- “My courier will collect”. Be wary of buyers who will not come themselves and push for unusual payment methods.
- Protect your details. Keep conversations in EbikeMate messages until you are ready to meet.
A clear check is not a guarantee
An EbikeMate check shows what is in EbikeMate records. A result of “No active theft report found in EbikeMate records” means no owner has flagged that serial with us — it does not prove a bike is not stolen. Use it alongside the receipt, the frame serial and your own judgement.
If something feels wrong, walk away. You can report a listing to our team from the bottom of any listing page, and report scams to Scamwatch.
This guide explains things in general terms. It is not legal advice. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.