Do Mountain Bikes Hold Their Value?

If you're considering investing in a mountain bike, you might be wondering about its long-term value, especially with the price of mountain bikes increasing in recent years.

Several factors influence how well a mountain bike retains its value. Understanding these can help you make a more informed purchasing decision - meaning you can maximise either trade in value or second hand value, if you are the type to switch and change your bikes.

New Technology

The mountain biking industry is constantly evolving, with manufacturers introducing new technologies and innovations every year. While these advancements can make the latest models more appealing, they can also lead to quicker depreciation of older bikes.

New technologies include the relatively recent increase in carbon fibre bikes, electronic shifting and the latest suspension components.

Brand Reputation

High-end brands like Scott and Giant Mountain Bikes tend to hold their value better than lesser-known brands. These companies have built a reputation for quality and performance, which translates to higher resale values, because riders in the know trust the frames and hardware of these bikes to continue to provide years of use and abuse!

Condition and Maintenance

A well-maintained bike will always fetch a higher price than one that has been neglected. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, lubricating the chain, and servicing the suspension, can significantly impact a bike's resale value. Bikes that show signs of wear and tear, rust, or damage will struggle to maintain decent resale values - if possible, take care of the bike and store it inside when not in use.

Model and Specifications

Higher-end models with premium components generally hold their value better than entry-level bikes. Features like carbon frames, advanced suspension systems, and top-of-the-line drivetrains not only enhance performance but also make the bike more desirable in the resale market - there’s more information than ever about mountain bikes, which is good news - as there are plenty of mountain bikers looking for a high specification, second hand mountain bike.

Age

Age is a critical factor in a bike's depreciation. Newer bikes tend to hold their value better than older models. It’s worth considering how often you change you bike, and whether or not you are better off selling regularly and upgrading Vs keeping hold of an older bike.

Market Trends

The demand for certain types of mountain bikes can fluctuate based on market trends. For instance, the rise in popularity of electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs) has influenced the value of traditional mountain bikes, with more and more people wanting to ride electric assist bikes exclusively. This was a massive change, trends you have more control over is choosing bikes which have tried and tested geometry and components.