Breakdown assistance from the ADAC: "Yellow Angels" also help with bicycle breakdowns
Kristian Bauer
· 17.11.2023
In summer 2023, the ADAC mechanics - also known as the Yellow Angels - were able to repair over 2000 bicycle breakdowns per month. Since then nationwide launch of the service in June 2022 a total of 18,638 bicycle breakdowns were registered (as at the end of September 2023). The day with the most breakdowns was early in the year, a Sunday with warm and sunny weather throughout Germany: 111 call-outs were recorded on 28 May 2023. The most common cause of a bike breakdown was a faulty tyre, accounting for 69 percent, followed by chain damage at 8 percent. Brakes, gears and locks only account for 6 per cent of all bike breakdowns. For e-bikes, the problem was electrical in 5 per cent of cases. In comparison, almost every second car breakdown is due to a faulty battery.
What the ADAC bicycle breakdown assistance statistics do not reveal is the type of bike or where the breakdown occurred. Most sporty mountain bikers or racing cyclists are probably less likely to be customers of ADAC breakdown assistance. Most of them probably have at least an air pump and spare inner tube with them or a mini-tool for other defects. Stranded bikers are also left out on the trails because the yellow ADAC vehicle is not allowed to go there.
What the ADAC bicycle breakdown service advises to avoid defects
- Always the Observe the correct tyre pressureas low pressure increases the risk of punctures. Check and adjust the tyre pressure at least once a month. It is advisable to regularly check the tyres for foreign objects and wear. Replace worn tyres in good time! For additional protection against damage to the tyre tread (such as punctures or sidewall damage), puncture protection tyres can be used, which are available from specialist dealers.
- Regular Cleaning and, above all, lubricating the chain extends the life of the entire drive. Chain oil or chain wax should be used to lubricate the chain, especially after long or repeated rides in the rain.
- Not only cars, but also Bicycles should be serviced regularly. A service at the bike dealer is not only useful for recognising potential problems at an early stage, but also for making your bike tour more fun and safer with an optimally adjusted bike.
How can I call the ADAC bicycle breakdown service?
All 1650 "Yellow Angels" are trained to provide rapid bicycle breakdown assistance and are equipped with the necessary materials and tools. In an emergency, you can call the ADAC bicycle breakdown service at Number 089 2020 4000 reach.
German Cyclists' Association has been offering breakdown assistance since 2015
The fact that an automobile club offers bicycle breakdown assistance is new. The Allgemeine Deutsche Fahrrad Club ADFC has been offering this service to its members since 2015. If your bike breaks down, you can call the hotline and describe your problem. This service number is provided by Roland-Schutzbrief Versicherung AG and operates the ADFC breakdown service. Depending on availability and the defect, either a mobile breakdown mechanic will be sent or the bike will be taken to an ADFC partner workshop. The ADFC also offers an extended breakdown service, which provides additional services for an extra charge.
Who else offers bicycle breakdown assistance?
Breakdown assistance 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, for example, if you are travelling on a longer bike trip.
Our articles on the subject of breakdown assistance are also of interest:
Kristian Bauer
Editor
