My Visit to the Upway UpCenter in LA: A Fresh Take on Buying an E-Bike
Words by Mia de Paula
I didn’t expect to be writing about a bike shopping experience—but here we are. I recently visited the Upway UpCenter in Los Angeles, looking for a reliable e-bike ahead of International Women’s MTB Day. What I found was a refreshing, no-pressure approach to buying a high-quality electric mountain bike, and a company genuinely invested in getting more people riding.
Upway is basically the Carvana or CarMax of bikes—hassle-free, easy to navigate, and yes, they’ll even give you cash for your bike on the spot.
A Different Kind of Bike Shop
Upway’s LA location feels more like a community hub than a showroom. No pushy salespeople. No overwhelming rows of gear. Just a clean, welcoming space where you can take your time, ask questions, and, if you want, test ride a bike right from the showroom floor. And let me tell you… the showroom floor was incredible!
I didn’t hop on a bike myself that day, but anyone visiting is encouraged to ride before they buy. The staff makes it easy, and the process feels like it’s designed to help you make the right decision—not a fast one.
Upway has everything from commuter bikes and eMTBs, to fat bikes, cargo bikes, kids’ e-bikes, road bikes and more. Some of the bikes on the floor were literally brand new—zero miles, straight out of the box–Just like the one I chose (a 2024 Specialized Turbo Levo Alloy). Others were gently used and professionally inspected.
They also carry some of the best brands in the game—Santa Cruz, Specialized, Pivot, Niner, Bianchi, Cannondale, and more—so you’re not sacrificing quality for affordability.
Every bike goes through a full check by Upway’s in-house mechanics and is guaranteed to be ride-ready. Whether you’re shopping in person at their LA or NYC UpCenter, or browsing online in your pajamas, every bike you see is certified and backed with support.
What They Offer: More Than You Might Think
You Can Sell Your Bike Too
One of the coolest things I learned during my visit? Upway doesn’t just sell bikes—they buy them. If you’ve got an e-bike collecting dust, you can bring it in, inquire online, video call, or over the phone, and walk out with cash. That kind of circular system is rare in this space and says a lot about the company’s larger mission.
It’s About Access and Sustainability
What really hit home for me is how Upway is making e-bikes more accessible. Their prices are up to 60% less than retail, and with financing and delivery options available, it opens the door for people who might otherwise be priced out. This kind of access matters—especially for folks who want a more sustainable way to move through the world but don’t know where to start.
As someone who’s constantly thinking about representation and inclusivity in the bike world, I love seeing companies like this remove barriers and get more people pedaling.
Final Thoughts: Upway Is Doing It Right
New to riding? Daily commuter? Want to haul gear? Just looking to change up how you get around? Upway makes the process approachable, transparent, and even fun. No pressure, no fluff—just great bikes, fair prices, and a staff that genuinely wants to help.
You can visit an UpCenter in LA or New York, or shop online from wherever you are. Either way, this is a company worth paying attention to.
They’re not just selling bikes—they’re making it easier for people to choose riding over driving. And that’s a mission I can get behind.
About Upway
Upway is a leading platform dedicated to making electric mobility accessible and affordable for everyone. Founded in 2021, Upway offers a wide selection of new and certified pre-owned electric bikes from top-tier brands like Specialized, Cannondale, Bianchi, Niner, and Pivot. Each e-bike undergoes a rigorous 50-point inspection by professional mechanics, ensuring quality and reliability. With showrooms in Los Angeles and New York, and a user-friendly online platform, Upway provides a hassle-free experience for buying or selling e-bikes, including cash offers for used bikes. Committed to sustainability, Upway promotes eco-friendly transportation by extending the life of e-bikes and reducing waste.