Many significant Black Friday discounts apply to e-bikes from the previous model year. Manufacturers often introduce new colors, frame variants, and equipment in late summer or autumn. Retailers then discount existing bikes to make room for the new models.

The term "previous model" says little about technical quality. A proven Bosch, Shimano, or Yamaha drive is often used across several model years. Sometimes only the color, display, or individual components change. An older model can therefore offer the same range and similar handling in everyday use as its successor.

Nevertheless, check the exact drive generation. Spare parts availability, software support, and compatibility with displays or batteries depend on the installed system. One example is Bosch's eBike Flow app: it is designed for the smart system. An e-bike with the older Bosch eBike System 2 cannot simply be connected to it by installing the app. If you want to use certain Flow features, your desired bike must have the appropriate system generation.

If you don't need such features, you can continue to include an older system in your comparison. Then specifically ask about suitable replacement batteries, the included charger, and the service options. For a replacement battery, have the compatibility with the specific e-bike confirmed. For a discontinued platform, the price advantage should be large enough to offset any potential limitations.

As a rule of thumb: If the successor only gets a new paint job and a slightly modified drivetrain, the discounted previous year's model is usually the more economical choice. If the new generation features a significantly larger battery, a lighter frame, or a revised motor system, you should compare both variants more closely.

What matters is the savings compared to the usual market price, not just compared to the RRP. If an e-bike with an RRP of 4,000 euros has already been sold for 3,300 euros for months, a Black Friday price of 3,000 euros offers an additional saving of 300 euros. The advertised 1,000-euro price advantage is based solely on the RRP. You can read what is behind the crossed-out price and 30-day price on the Black Friday overview page.

Brands such as Cube, Haibike, Kalkhoff, and Trek are discounted to varying degrees depending on stock levels. A flat brand discount is therefore not very meaningful. Always compare the specific model with the same battery capacity, motor version, gears, and frame design. Even a different battery can change the regular price by several hundred euros.

In addition to the category, check the battery capacity, motor torque and brakes. For short distances, a compact battery may be sufficient. For long rides, hilly terrain or a high overall weight, a larger battery offers more reserve. For heavier riders and frequent descents, powerful disc brakes are more important than a large display. For a sportily used e-MTB, it is best to note the exact designation of the suspension fork and brakes.

Also think about everyday use with the e-bike. Do you have to carry it downstairs? The total weight matters. If there is no power outlet at the parking spot, the battery should be removable for charging. You should try these daily tasks before purchasing or clarify them during a consultation.

When it comes to e-bikes, there are many reasons to shop early in the promotional period. E-bikes are produced in fixed frame sizes and configurations. If a popular size sells out, the retailer is generally unable to reorder it during the promotion. Very small and very large sizes sometimes remain available longer, but this cannot be reliably predicted.

If your dream model is available in your size at a good price, it’s rarely worth waiting for a few more percentage points off. You’ll find all the key dates, from the early deals to Cyber Monday, on the Black Friday overview page.

• Full model designation: A similar name may be used for variants with a different battery, simpler wiring, or cheaper brakes.
• Motor and battery: Note the motor version, battery capacity in watt-hours, and control unit. For older systems, check the availability of batteries, displays, and spare parts.
• Scope of delivery: Check whether the charger, battery, keys, mudguards, and other standard accessories are included.
• Final price: Add shipping, pre-assembly, and necessary accessories. An e-bike that costs 100 euros more may ultimately be cheaper if it is delivered fully assembled and without a shipping surcharge.
• Market comparison: A 40 percent discount on the recommended retail price may be less than a 25 percent discount on an already lower market price.

Exercise caution if only a maximum discount is advertised, but the heavily discounted bikes are barely available. Save interesting models before Black Week and note the price.