Electric bike shop with a service bay

Commuters, retirees, families and leisure riders, plus people who already own an e-bike and need servicing.

Margin on bike and accessory sales (helmets, locks, racks, lights), plus paid servicing, repairs and seasonal tune-up packages.

• Bike mechanics and basic e-bike electrical knowledge
• Customer service and sales
• Stock buying and inventory control

• Stock is a big upfront cost, so check supplier terms such as consignment or small first orders
• Check your municipal business licence and zoning for retail and repair use
• Commercial general liability and property insurance, including cover for test rides
• Lithium battery storage and fire safety, check with your insurer and local fire department
• Check federal and provincial rules on e-bike classes and where they may be ridden, as these vary by province
• Sales are seasonal in many areas, so plan cash flow for winter

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $40,000 to $150,000, depending on how much stock you buy and your premises. Stock is a big upfront cost, so check supplier terms such as consignment or small first orders.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $8,000 to $40,000, depending on stock, location and season. Sales are seasonal in many areas, so plan your cash flow for winter.

Check your municipal business licence and zoning for retail and repair use, plus insurance including cover for test rides. Also check lithium battery storage and fire safety, and federal and provincial e-bike rules, which vary by province.