Prepare your bike for return — inspection and cleaning checklist
Returning your benefit bike to Vapaus is simple. We want to make sure your bike meets our terms and to to be in working condition when returned. This guide helps you ensure your bike meets Vapaus standards and avoids additional repair charges.
Step 1: Wash your bike
Important notes:
- Do NOT use a pressure washer
- Turn off all electronics and secure the battery
- Don't spray water directly at bearings or electronic components
- If you're unsure, take it to a bike shop for professional cleaning
Cleaning steps:
- Use a garden hose to rinse gently
- Fill a bucket with water and add bike-safe soap (e.g. dish soap)
- Scrub gently with a soft brush, spreading soapy water everywhere
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all soap is gone
- Dry with a cloth
Lubricate the chain:
- Apply chain oil along the full length of the chain
- Pedal backwards a few times to distribute
- Wipe away excess with a cloth
- Only use bicycle-specific oil (not motorcycle or chainsaw oil)
- Never oil other parts besides the chain, and avoid spraying brakes or brake rotors
Step 2: Ensure your bike works properly
We recommend taking your bike to a bike shop for inspection before returning it. This saves money and time by catching any issues early.
Inspection checklist: The bike must meet these requirements to pass inspection:
- Brakes are functional and have adequate tread
- Powertrain components are intact; normal wear on chain and gears is acceptable as long as it doesn't prevent normal use
- Tires are intact, drivable, and have adequate tread
- Gearbox is operational and all gears engage properly
- No significant play in bearings and hubs
- Rims are intact with no visible twisting
- Frame, fork, and tube parts are intact with no cracks
- Derailleur hanger is intact and straight
- Bike has not been modified or customised
- Saddle, handlebars, and pedals are intact
- Any special tools that came with the bike are present
- Any self-installed parts have been removed
- For e-bikes: system shows no error codes, electrical system and battery function normally, display is intact and operational
Take your checklist to a bike shop — They can verify everything and make adjustments if needed.
Step 3: Prepare for pickup
- Do NOT disassemble the bike for transport
- Protect with cardboard
- Attach keys to the handlebar with a cable tie (don't leave in locks — they can break or fall off)
- Gather any accessories, tools, or items you're returning — place in a sturdy plastic bag
- Add your name and Vapaus code to the bag
- If you have a smart lock code or app-based system access (Bosch, Shimano, VanMoof), write codes on paper and include them
- Remove ownership from any bike-tracking apps
- Don't use tape to attach items — it can damage the paint
Contact customer service immediately if something is missing or damaged.