In April of this year, 20 professionals from the bicycle industry, automotive experts, and insurance field adjusters participated in a two-day “Advanced” training course organized by the Zedler-Institut. The aim of the event was to deepen participants’ knowledge and technical expertise in the assessment of modern bicycle types, particularly e-bikes and cargo bicycles. Special emphasis was placed on the analysis and evaluation of motors and batteries in modern EPAC systems as well as the inspection of carbon components.
The topic of the training is currently of particular relevance, as the increasing number of fatal bicycle accidents has been highlighted in the media in recent weeks. Although the majority of the more than 100,000 bicycle accidents recorded annually result in less severe outcomes, claims settlement in many cases becomes a lengthy and often frustrating experience for those affected due to a shortage of qualified bicycle assessors.
The assessment of modern bicycles places special demands that go beyond standard procedures in the automotive sector. This applies not only to the technical analysis itself, but also to the precise and transparent documentation required for clients, insurers, and legal professionals, as well as the evaluation of relevant market values for claims settlement purposes.
The course was intended to demonstrate that simply transferring established automotive practices to bicycle technology does not adequately reflect either modern bicycles or the specific requirements of the bicycle market. A sound understanding of the bicycle industry and the relevant legal framework is therefore essential for preparing expert opinions that are both practically applicable and legally robust.
