Decoding E-Bike Wear and Tear: Insights from the Fahrrad & E-Bike Report 2023

The evolving landscape of e-bikes continues to captivate enthusiasts and researchers alike, prompting a closer look into the wear and tear factors influencing their longevity. The "Fahrrad & E-Bike Report 2023" by German insurer Wertgarantie provides valuable insights into the nuances of e-bike damage, shedding light on unexpected differences between e-bikes and traditional bicycles.

Causes of Damage: Wear and Tear Takes the Lead

Wear and Tear:

Contrary to expectations, wear and tear, while still the primary cause of damage for both e-bikes and regular bicycles, accounts for only one third of e-bike damage. This is a surprising finding as wear and tear on regular bikes stands at 45 percent, indicating potential durability advantages for e-bike components.

Technical Defects:

E-bikes face a higher incidence of technical defects, standing at around 22 percent compared to 12 percent for regular bikes. Notably, e-bike batteries contribute significantly to technical failures, failing in over 30 percent of cases, emphasizing the need for more robust battery technologies.

Other Causes:

Damage due to falls, theft, vandalism, and accidents show marginal differences between e-bikes and regular bicycles.

Repair Dynamics: The E-Drive Factor

Workshop vs. DIY:

E-bike riders tend to rely more on professional workshops for repairs, with almost 40 percent choosing this route. In contrast, only around 24 percent of regular bike riders opt for professional workshops. The additional technology in e-bikes, especially concerning the battery and motor, makes professional repairs essential.

Self-Reliance:

Approximately 30 percent of all cyclists, irrespective of bike type, trust their own repair skills. However, help from friends, acquaintances, or family members is more prevalent among regular bike users (29 percent) than e-bike riders (20 percent).

Preventive Measures: Diligence Pays Off

Maintenance:

Regular maintenance emerges as a crucial factor in avoiding damage. E-bike owners, at 60 percent, outpace regular bike owners in conducting regular checks. Additionally, two-thirds of e-bike owners clean their bikes at least once a month, compared to half of regular bike owners.

Storage:

Parking bikes in dry places is a common practice for both e-bike and regular bike owners, with storage locations such as garages and cellars being popular choices.

Reporting Damage: The Digital Approach

App Usage:

Digital options for reporting damage are gaining popularity, with almost a third of all cyclists using apps or customer portals provided by insurers. Over half of e-bike riders who do not currently use such apps can envision adopting this digital reporting method.

Conclusion

As the e-bike landscape evolves, understanding the distinctive wear and tear patterns becomes imperative. The Fahrrad & E-Bike Report 2023 not only highlights the causes of damage but also underscores the importance of regular maintenance and professional repairs, especially in the context of e-bike technology. These insights pave the way for a more informed and sustainable approach to e-bike ownership.