Since June 2022, the ADAC has extended its breakdown assistance to cyclists. In summer 2023, ADAC mechanics were able to repair more than 2,000 breakdowns per month. Since the nationwide launch of the service in June 2022, the club has registered a total of 18,638 bicycle breakdowns (as at the end of September). The peak day was 28 May 2023 with 111 breakdown services. By far the most common reason for ADAC bicycle breakdown assistance is a defective tyre (69 percent), followed by chain damage (8 percent). Brakes, gears and locks only account for 6 per cent of bicycle breakdowns. In 5 per cent of cases, the problem was electrical (e-bikes). This is in complete contrast to cars, where almost every second breakdown is due to a faulty battery.
Road cyclists are probably rarely among the customers of the bicycle breakdown service. This is because a well-maintained bike and, above all, sufficient air pressure are the best protection against punctures. Most road cyclists are also likely to have an air pump and spare inner tube with them.
Bicycle breakdown assistance: tips for avoiding defects
In a press release, the ADAC gives the following tips for avoiding breakdowns
- Always make sure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure. If the tyres are under-inflated, the risk of punctures is significantly higher. Tyre pressure should be checked and corrected at least once a month. It is helpful to regularly check the tyres for foreign objects and remove them. Replace worn tyres in good time! Puncture protection tyres, which are available from specialist dealers, also offer protection against damage to the casing (puncture and sidewall damage).
- Regular cleaning and, above all, lubrication prolongs the life of the chain immensely. In addition to the lower pedalling resistance, the noise level is a positive factor compared to a dry chain.
- Not only cars should be serviced, but bicycles too. The service from the bike dealer is not only worthwhile because impending defects are recognised earlier. In addition, riding with a well-adjusted bike is always more fun.
Telephone number: How can I contact the ADAC bicycle breakdown service?
All 1650 "Yellow Angels" have been trained and equipped with the necessary material to provide fast and reliable bicycle breakdown assistance. In an emergency, the ADAC bicycle breakdown service can be contacted on the well-known breakdown service number 089 2020 4000.
Does the ADFC offer bicycle breakdown assistance?
The fact that an automobile club offers bicycle breakdown assistance is new. The Allgemeine Deutsche Fahrrad Club (ADFC) has been offering this since 2015 and the service is included in the ADFC membership fee. In the event of a breakdown, you call the hotline and describe your problem. The ADFC breakdown assistance hotline is provided by Roland-Schutzbrief Versicherung AG. Depending on availability and defect, a mobile breakdown mechanic will be sent or the bike will be transported to an ADFC partner workshop. The ADFC also offers extended breakdown assistance plus, which provides additional services for an extra charge.
Who else offers bicycle breakdown assistance?
Breakdown cover for bicycles is also offered by Verkehrsclub Deutschland VCD, Automobilclub ACV and Automobilclub ACE. In addition, breakdown cover can be taken out with various insurance companies without membership. This could be worthwhile when travelling by bike.
However, the best protection against defects is still a well-maintained bike and, above all, sufficient air in the tyres to prevent punctures.
TOUR tips on the topic Tyre pressure.
Kristian Bauer
Editor
