Fox-red chains, faulty brakes, service costs: three things really matter for e-bike inspection

Riding an e-bike is half as much fun when bundled up in winter clothes. It won’t be long before the electric car stays in the garage all winter long. Control is now even more important in spring.

According to Philipp Thomet (51), managing director of Thomet Radsport in Aarberg, there are three things to check on an e-bike. “The battery should be inspected and fully charged,” explains Thomet. It is best for the battery if you do not remove the battery and immediately install it on the bike.

Air pressure should also be checked: “Basically, 2.5 to 5 bar is required. But the exact value is always on the tyre.” And of course: The braking function must be tested before the first ride.

Humidity in winter is especially difficult for the electric chain. St. “Most chains are dressed in fox red when e-bikes come to us for service,” says Bruno Pfiffner (63), managing director of Velo Pfiffner in St. Gallen. In most cases, lubricating the chains is sufficient. It would need to be replaced in an emergency.

Thomet and Pfiffner emphasize how important proper bike lighting is. Attention: On an e-bike, the front light must also be on during the day. From April 1, 2024, speedometers will also be mandatory for fast cars.

Bike dealers recommend having your e-bike serviced once a year. “This means approximately every 1,000 to 2,500 kilometers,” explains Thomet. Stromer’s software is always checked and updated when necessary.

A regular service costs 100 francs or more. Many bike dealers state on their websites how expensive the annual inspection of an electric vehicle is. Be smart and compare prices for the service online. It is important that you clarify the price in advance and make a service offer if necessary. This way, you can avoid billing differences that may occur later.

The busy service season for bicycle dealers has recently begun. Bruno Pfiffner admits that he would of course be happy if one of the mechanics brought his bikes in the winter. But she shows understanding: “I don’t buy my swimsuits when the temperature is below zero.”

Already have an e-bike and want to upgrade to a newer model? No problem. Many dealers offer some kind of trade-in. When you buy a new electric car, you return your old model and get its value as a discount.

Second hand trade is becoming increasingly important. Many families and couples who already own an e-bike sell another electric bike after a few years. The Swiss Bicycle and E-Bike Agency estimates that 15 to 20 percent of the market consists of repeat buyers.

Expert advice from a specialist shop is important when buying an e-bike, at least for the first time. A large number of models are now available, from “city bikes” suitable for city traffic to e-trekking bikes and e-bikes. – cargo bikes. Newer models can quickly break through the price ceiling of several thousand francs.

Since Stromer is not completely free, it must be insured. Not all e-bikes are the same. Engine performance is decisive when it comes to insurance coverage. If the E-Velo provides pedal assistance at speeds up to 25 km/h, it is considered a light motor bike. The insurance is comparable to a regular bicycle and is included in the household contents insurance.

Pedal-assisted sprinters up to 45 km/h belong to the motor vehicle category. Depending on the insurer, household reinforcements are required to insure powerful e-bikes against theft. Damages to third parties are automatically insured with the annual premium of the compulsory license plate.