GuideElectric bike subscriptions in Switzerland: Torks vs Decathlon6 min read
Cycling has taken off since electric assistance arrived. More and more riders are on Swiss roads. But are they on the bike that actually fits their needs?
We have already set out the pros and cons of buying versus subscribing to an electric bike.
To help you choose a 25 km/h pedal-assist (e-bike) subscription, here is a comparison of the services Decathlon and Torks offer in Switzerland.
| Torks | Decathlon | |
|---|---|---|
| Bikes compared | Single Torks model | E activ 100 LF-SM |
| Specifications | 80 Nm motor (high power for hills), 60 km range, 22 kg. | 45 Nm motor, 30 to 70 km range, 22.9 kg. |
| Equipment | Mudguards, kickstand, rear rack, lock | Mudguards |
| Available accessories | Basket, child seat/trailer | Kickstand, rear rack, lock, child seat/trailer |
| Monthly price | From 79 francs per month | From 45 francs per month |
| Subscription lengths | 1, 6 and 12 months | 3 and 12 months |
| Maintenance and repairs | At home or at work within 3 days | Take the bike back to a store |
| In case of theft | Bike replaced within 3 days, at no charge | The customer reimburses the bike at its new value |
Comparing the bikes
For 79 francs a month, Torks provides a premium bike with a powerful motor (80 Nm) that makes Swiss hills easier, a 60 km range and a removable battery.
With a bike subscription starting at 45 francs a month, Decathlon offers entry-level bikes with a less powerful motor (around 45 Nm). Some bikes are delivered without accessories. It is wise to check the full equipment list before you subscribe.
Unlike the Decathlon offer, a quality lock is included in the Torks subscription. It lets you secure the bike to a fixed structure; that step is what guarantees a free replacement if the bike is stolen.
For a daily commute, a mudguard is not a luxury: it helps you arrive at work looking presentable. Check that your bike will be delivered with one.
A kickstand is useful for parking the bike anywhere. It frees your hands when you need to put on a jacket or rummage through panniers mid-trip.
A rear rack means you do not have to carry your things on your back. That is more comfortable, especially in hot weather. It also lets you attach the panniers you prefer.
Torks can add a basket on request, for example to bring groceries home. On request, a child seat or a trailer for two children is also available. Your Torks bike can then match the specific needs of your daily trips.
Comparing the services
Decathlon offers 3-month and 12-month subscriptions. Torks offers 1, 6 and 12 months, which gives more flexibility.
A 6-month term typically lets you ride through the warmer season and return the bike in winter. A bike as good as new is waiting for you the following spring.
Both companies maintain the bikes. The way they do it differs a little.
You have to take a damaged bike to a Decathlon store for repair, while Torks comes to your home or workplace.
No deposit is required when the subscription starts, and maintenance is included in both offers. At Decathlon, however, the customer is responsible for reimbursing the bike's new value if it is stolen. Torks replaces a stolen bike at no charge, with no extra payment, within 3 days.
In conclusion
If the budget is tight, the Decathlon subscription is cheaper. Several points can still make the experience uncertain: no kickstand, lock or rear rack, a less powerful motor, a 3-month minimum term, having to take the bike to a store for repairs, and a high bill if it is stolen.
The Torks subscription costs a little more, but the company takes on the risks and provides a premium, ready-to-ride service. That is why the slogan holds: Torks, the bike in complete freedom.
The best way to check that the bike fits is still to try it. Torks offers a free 30-minute test ride near you, or you can start a subscription from one month.