Damage & Liability Policy

Last Updated: 22 November 2025

This Damage & Liability Policy explains how responsibility is assigned for damages, loss, theft, and accidents involving rental bikes and equipment from Avalanche Algarve (“we”, “us”, “our”). By renting a bike from us, you (“the customer”, “the rider”) agree to the terms below.

1. Customer Responsibility

You are responsible for the bike and all rented equipment from the moment it is delivered or collected, until it is returned to us.

This includes responsibility for:

Safe and proper use of the bike
Securing the bike using the lock provided
Preventing theft or loss
Preventing damage due to misuse or negligence
Returning the bike in the same condition it was provided

You must report any issue immediately via phone or WhatsApp so we can assist.

2. What Counts as “Normal Wear & Tear”

The following are NOT charged:

Minor scratches from regular use
Normal tyre wear
Brake pad wear
Chain lubricant residue
Dust from off-road routes

We maintain the bikes for the Algarve environment, so natural wear is expected and never charged.

3. Chargeable Damage

Damage is chargeable when caused by misuse, negligence, crashes, or improper handling.

Examples of chargeable damage:

Bent wheel rims
Broken spokes
Cracked or damaged frame (E-Bikes, Road Bikes, MTBs, E-SUVs)
Electrical system damage (E-Bikes)
Water damage to motor or battery
Snapped or damaged derailleur / gear system
Brake lever or handlebar damage from falls
Cracked helmets
Broken pedals
Seatpost or saddle damage

Repair costs are calculated based on official workshop rates and/or replacement cost of the original components.

4. Theft or Loss

If the bike or any accessory is stolen, lost, or unrecoverable, the customer is financially responsible for the replacement cost.

Replacement values (average range):

MTB: €400–€800
E-Bike: €1,500–€2,500
E-Trekking SUV: €2,000–€3,000
Carbon Road Bike: €2,500–€4,000
Helmets: €30–€60
Locks: €20–€40

Theft does not qualify for a refund unless evidence shows the bike was securely locked and still stolen (case-by-case).

5. Locking Requirements

To avoid theft charges, you must:

Use the lock provided at all times
Lock the frame to a fixed, immovable object
Never leave the bike unlocked or unattended
Never store the bike overnight outside

Failure to follow these rules may result in full replacement charges if the bike is stolen.

6. Accidents & Injuries

Avalanche Algarve is not liable for:

Personal injury sustained during cycling
Medical costs resulting from accidents
Damage to third-party property
Loss of personal items during rides

Our responsibility is limited to ensuring the bike is mechanically safe at the time of delivery.

We strongly recommend wearing helmets (included for free) and following local cycling regulations.

7. Mechanical Issues During Rental

If an issue occurs that is not caused by misuse:

We provide mechanical assistance
We repair or replace the bike
No extra charges apply

If the issue is due to misuse or crash impact, repair charges may apply.

8. Damage Inspection Process

When bikes are collected or returned:

Our mechanics inspect the bike
We document any damage with photos
We explain the findings before charging anything
You receive a breakdown of repair or replacement costs

We maintain full transparency and only charge when necessary.

9. Customer Liability Limit

Liability is limited to the actual repair or replacement cost of damaged or lost equipment. We do not charge “penalties”, “administration fees”, or inflated amounts.

10. Prohibited Use

These actions void free support and may lead to full damage liability:

Riding through seawater or deep sand
Jumping, downhill racing, or extreme trails (unless booked on a specific tour)
Carrying passengers or excess weight
Using the bike under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Transporting bikes on car racks without our consent
Unauthorized mechanical adjustments

11. Liability for Minors

Parents or legal guardians are fully responsible for minors using our bikes or equipment. All terms in this Policy apply equally.

12. Insurance

Some travel insurers cover bicycle rental and minor damage. We strongly recommend checking your insurance coverage before renting.

We do not currently offer in-house optional insurance; pricing is based on transparent repair/replacement value.

13. Contact Us

If you have questions about damage, liability, inspection, or fees, contact us:

Avalanche Algarve
Rua 5 de Outubro lt1
8150-114 São Brás de Alportel
Portugal

Phone: +351 963 415 122
WhatsApp: +351 966 436 534
Email: avalanche.bikeshop@gmail.com