Rent a bicycle in Austria.  How to choose the right bike to rent.

 Are you in Vienna and looking for a mountain biking adventure?  If you don’t have your own bike, then in any case you need to find a bike to rent.  Many people do not pay attention to the quality of rental bicycles.  although it’s quite in vain, because the quality of the mountain bike you rent will depend on the pleasure of your adventure.  in this article we will tell you how to choose the right bike for rental and check its technical condition.

First, let’s decide what type of bike you want to rent – mountain, road, electric, gravel.  Now we will look at those points that are worth paying attention to, regardless of the type of bicycle, and after that we will discuss specific types of bicycles.

The first thing you should pay attention to when renting a bicycle is the correct size of the bicycle frame.  if the frame is not correctly selected for your height, your riding will be painful and will not bring any joy

Then thing you need to check on a rental bike is the condition of the brakes and brake pads.  If the brake pads are close to wear, then ask for them to be replaced.  this is about your safety.  It also won’t be much fun to drive back without finishing your planned route because your brakes are squeaking with worn out pads on the brake rotor.  Also be sure to check the condition of the stem and handlebar bolts.  This is also the most important safety issue.  Next, ask the bike owner to check the tightness of the pedal bolts and crankset.

Separately check the quality of the gear shift and whether there are any problems with the operation of the bicycle transmission under load.  A poorly tuned gear shift or a bent rear hook can ruin your entire day of cycling that you paid for.

Now let’s take a separate look at renting different types of bicycles and what you need to pay attention to.

Mountain bike rental.  What to check when renting a mountain bike.

1. Brakes, brake pads

2. Handlebar and stem bolts

3. Fork and rear shock correct functionality. Ask provider to set up suspension pressure to your weight.

4. Gear shifting

5. Tyre pressure

Road bike or gravel bike rental.

The same steps (1,2,4,5) like in mountain bike rental. Handlebar tape should be in good condition without damages. Test bike transmission with your maximum pedal power – there shouldn’t be any drivetrain jumps and chain skipping.

E-Bike rental.

All described above, but pay attention to electricity. First of all bike should be fully loaded. It’s not easy and not funny to push 30 kg bike from the trail to the rental point. All ride modes (eco, tour, sport e.t.c) should work perfectly.

No matter what type of bike you want to rent, pay attention to the condition of the tires.  For a mountain bike, it is important that the tread condition is close to new.  The quality of braking and the stability of the bike in corners depend on this.  In any case, there should be no cracks or delamination of rubber on the tires – this is the safety of your trip.