Do bikes hold their value?
Direct answer · Cyclesite
Most bikes lose 15–25% of their value per year, meaning a £2,000 bike is typically worth £1,200–£1,500 after two years. Premium brands (Specialized, Trek, Canyon, Brompton) hold value better than budget brands. Brompton folding bikes hold value best of any brand, often retaining 70–80% after 3 years. E-bikes depreciate faster due to battery concerns.
Last reviewed: 2026-05-07
Depreciation by bike type
Road bikes: 15–20% per year (carbon holds better than aluminium). Mountain bikes: 20–25% per year (full suspension depreciates faster). Hybrid bikes: 20–30% per year. E-bikes: 25–35% per year (battery degradation fears). Folding bikes: 10–15% per year (Bromptons are exceptional). Gravel bikes: 15–20% per year (strong demand keeps values up).
Brands that hold value best
Brompton is the standout, used Bromptons regularly sell for 70–80% of new price. Other strong value holders include Specialized (strong brand loyalty), Trek (wide dealer network), Canyon (direct-to-consumer value), and Santa Cruz (cult following in MTB). Budget brands like Btwin lose value faster but offer low entry prices.
Related Questions
Which bikes are the best investment?
Brompton folding bikes hold value best. Among standard bikes, premium road and gravel bikes from Specialized, Trek, and Canyon retain the most value. The best "investment" is buying a quality used bike 2–3 years old, the steepest depreciation has already happened.
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