Swapfiets app: managing your bike subscription

Swapfiets has changed cycling in the Netherlands for good. No more hassle with maintenance, repairs or theft. For a fixed amount per month you always have a working bike. And with the Swapfiets app you manage your subscription entirely from your smartphone. In this guide you'll learn everything about the app and how to get the most out of it.

What is Swapfiets?

Swapfiets is a Dutch bike subscription that started in Delft in 2014. The concept is simple: you pay a fixed monthly fee and get a bike with the iconic blue front tire. Is something broken? Then the bike is repaired or swapped for free. That way you always have a working bike without worrying about maintenance.

The range has since expanded with different types of bikes:

  • Original: The classic city bike
  • Deluxe 7: Bike with 7 gears
  • Power 1: E-bike for longer distances
  • Power 7: E-bike with 7 gears

Downloading the Swapfiets app

The Swapfiets app is available for free for iPhone and Android. Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and search for 'Swapfiets'. Download the app and log in with your existing account, or create a new account if you don't have a Swapfiets yet.

Logging in and linking your account

Already have a Swapfiets subscription? Then log in with the email address you signed up with. You will immediately see all your subscription details, including which bike you have, your monthly costs and the next payment date.

Requesting a Swapfiets through the app

Don't have a Swapfiets yet? You can request one through the app. Select the city where you live, choose the bike type that suits you and schedule a pickup appointment. The app shows available time slots at a Swapfiets location near you.

Which bike suits you?

When you request a bike, the app helps you choose. You fill in how far you usually cycle and whether the terrain where you live is hilly. Based on that you get a recommendation. Do you live in a flat area and cycle short distances? Then the Original is fine. Do you travel longer distances or live in a hilly city? Then consider an e-bike.

Requesting repairs and swaps

The most important feature of the app is reporting problems with your bike. Do you have a flat tire, broken lights or brakes that don't work properly? In the app you report it with just a few taps.

How do you report a problem?

Open the app and go to 'My bike'. Tap 'Report a problem' and select what is wrong. You can choose from common problems such as:

  • Flat tire
  • Faulty lights
  • Brake problems
  • Chain or gears
  • Lock doesn't work
  • Other problems

After selecting the problem, you schedule an appointment. You can choose to bring your bike to a Swapfiets location or have a mechanic come to your home. For serious problems you get a new bike right away: a swap.

Waiting times and availability

The availability of appointments varies by city and season. During busy periods, such as the start of the academic year, it may take a little longer. So don't schedule too far ahead if the problem is urgent.

Managing your subscription

The app gives you full insight into and control over your subscription:

Payment overview

View your payment history and upcoming payments. You see exactly when the next payment will be debited and from which account.

Changing your payment method

Do you need to link a new bank card or want to use a different credit card? In the app you can easily change your payment details under 'Account' > 'Payment method'.

Upgrade or downgrade

Want to switch from a regular bike to an e-bike? Or the other way around? Through the app you can submit a request to change bike type. Swapfiets will contact you to arrange it.

Moving

Are you moving to another city? Report it in the app. If Swapfiets operates in your new place of residence, you simply keep your subscription. Sometimes you do have to switch bikes.

Canceling your Swapfiets

If you want to end your subscription, you can arrange that through the app as well. Go to 'Account' and select 'Cancel subscription'. You schedule a return appointment and hand in your bike at a Swapfiets location. After you return it, your subscription stops and no further costs are charged.

Please note: cancel in time if you no longer need the bike. The subscription continues until you have returned the bike.

Reporting theft

Has your Swapfiets been stolen? Report it right away through the app. Go to 'My bike' and select 'Bike stolen'. You have to file a police report and provide the police report number. After reporting it, you schedule an appointment to pick up a new bike.

Costs in case of theft

In case of theft you pay a deductible, depending on your bike type and whether you have the optional theft service. You can find the exact amounts in your subscription terms in the app.

Extra services

Swapfiets offers additional services that you can manage through the app:

No-theft fee service

With this option you pay a small extra amount per month, and your deductible for theft is lower or even zero. Ideal if you live in an area with a lot of bike theft.

Accessories

Through the app you can order extra accessories, such as a bike basket or child seat. These are delivered at your next appointment, or you pick them up at a location.

Handy tips for Swapfiets users

A few practical tips to get the most out of your Swapfiets:

Report problems quickly: The sooner you report a defect, the sooner it is fixed. Don't keep riding a broken bike.

Keep your app up to date: Updates often contain new features and improvements.

Check your payment details: Make sure your payment method is always current to avoid problems with direct debits.

Take photos of damage: If your bike has been damaged in an accident, take photos before you file a report.

Swapfiets in your city

Swapfiets operates in dozens of cities in the Netherlands, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, Eindhoven, Groningen, Delft, Leiden and many others. In the app you can easily check whether Swapfiets is available where you live.

Conclusion

The Swapfiets app is the central place for everything related to your bike subscription. From requesting a bike to reporting problems and managing your payments: you arrange it all with a few taps on your smartphone. With the app you get the most out of your Swapfiets and always ride carefree through the Netherlands.

Frequently asked questions

How do I report a defect on my Swapfiets?

Open the Swapfiets app, go to 'My bike' and tap 'Report a problem'. Select the type of problem and schedule an appointment for a repair or swap.

Can I cancel my Swapfiets subscription through the app?

Yes, go to 'Account' and select 'Cancel subscription'. You schedule a return appointment, and once you have returned the bike your subscription stops.

What should I do if my Swapfiets has been stolen?

Report the theft right away in the app under 'My bike' > 'Bike stolen'. File a police report and provide the police report number. Then schedule an appointment for a new bike.

Can I upgrade to an e-bike through the app?

Yes, through the app you can submit a request to change bike type. Swapfiets will contact you to arrange the upgrade and schedule an appointment.

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