Should you rent or buy an e-bike or take out a subscription?

Buy or rent? This has long been a question for more than just cars. People are choosing the rental option a lot more for e-bikes too. E-bike rental means you always have a bike available on demand to transport you to your destination in a quick and practical manner, despite rush hour traffic. Yet the subscription option is also a possibility now.

If you rent a bike, you use it for a few hours or days and then return it. Unlike a bike rental, with a subscription you hire a bike for several months at a time – in other words, for a longer period. You pay per month or year, instead of per day or hour as you do when renting. The envisaged timescale is longer with a subscription.

Particularly for commuters who travel regularly, a subscription may be advantageous. The e-bike will be available all year long, and doesn't have to be rented out again each day during this time. By contrast, anyone planning a short trip out every so often and traveling only rarely, will find the rental option pays off more. 

In both cases, the e-bike does not belong to you. This means that several models can be tried out, and there are no maintenance or repair costs. Unlike when you have an e-bike of your own, you only pay for actual use when renting or hiring. Ultimately, the type and frequency of use is crucial when deciding whether you should rent a bike, take out a subscription or buy an e-bike.

Zurich supports the desire for sustainable mobility and innovative solutions. For this reason, we have teamed up with strong partners such as Veloplus, who offer a 12-month bicycle subscription incl. Zurich insurance coverage. Important: Veloplus branches are only available in certain locations.

It's very simple:

• Choose a bike online and take out a subscription.
• Pick up the e-bike from the store.
• Get riding.

The e-bike will be inspected at regular intervals at no cost. The costs for repairs, service and parts subject to wear and tear are included in the subscription price.