Repair instead of buying new is the motto
From the outset, the TWIKE was designed to be a sustainable vehicle. Not only in terms of its lack of fossil fuel consumption, but also in terms of its durability. Its high-quality construction was intended to counteract the throwaway mentality. In addition, the TWIKE community focuses on repairing rather than buying new, which is reflected in the long life cycle of the vehicles.
The TWIKE 3 is designed so that it can be repaired by an experienced vehicle mechanic. This means that the TWIKE has a very long service life. Even today, many pilots are still flying the TWIKE 3, which was launched back in 1995. For special repairs, there are a number of TWIKE partners who are well versed in the technology.
The most important points to check are not so much the bodywork (as this does not rust), but rather the condition of the wear parts (e.g. tyres, chassis bearings) and, above all, the condition of the battery. In the case of the battery, a status report can be read from the battery electronics, which provides information about its remaining service life.
Used TWIKEs are hard to find
Proof of the TWIKE’s longevity is the demand for used TWIKEs. However, these are highly sought after and difficult to find, as most TWIKE drivers are true enthusiasts and do not usually sell their vehicles. Nevertheless, it does happen that a TWIKE driver parts with their vehicle due to new circumstances in their life (new addition to the family, new job, etc.). However, demand far exceeds supply.
A used TWIKE in good condition with a usable battery can cost upwards of around €9,000. The lowest realistic price without batteries is between €8,000 and €9,000. If no used battery is available, a new battery must be installed (from €4,500), which increases the price of a second-hand TWIKE from a dealer to between €9,000 and €12,500.
Used TWIKE 3 in payment give
Even after the release of the TWIKE 5, we do not expect a significant drop in prices for used TWIKE 3 models. The purchase price of new TWIKE 3 models is even likely to rise, as these models will only be manufactured on request after the TWIKE 5 goes into production. Some customers ask us whether they can trade in their TWIKE 3 when purchasing a TWIKE 5.
In principle, this is possible. We will prepare a valuation report in our workshop and then make a purchase offer. However, considering the foreseeable quantity at the time of delivery of the TWIKE 5 and the associated assumption of a warranty for the used vehicle vis-à-vis a new customer, our offer will be less attractive than selling directly to a new owner—in this case, warranty risks can be ruled out and the vehicle can therefore be priced more favorably.
