Content
What does the shopping process look like?
Information about putting the bike into service
The environmental impact of pedelec
Which bike should I choose?
Which bike types are available?
The choice of bike type is mainly determined by our lifestyle and demands; almost all bikers will find the bike ideal for them in our offer, be it electric or traditional. You can receive further assistance in choosing the type on our Bicycle selector page.
Our electric bike types:
- Urban e-Bike
- Special e-Bike
- City e-Bike
- Trekking e-Bike
- MTB & ATB e-Bike
- Kid/Junior e-bike
Our traditional bike types:
- Trekking
- Cross
- MTB
- Urban & City
- Kid/Junior
What is the difference between the frame materials used today?
Steel (CrMo): strong but flexible material, although the heaviest one among the currently used frame materials. Due to its flexibility, it can bear higher loads over a long time, and may absorb sudden shocks.
Aluminium: stiff but light, frame manufacturers offer these in different quality. Due to its stiffness, the energy loss/handling problems arising from deformation are minimal. Aluminium is a durable frame material, however, it “stores” the loads experienced during use, which may lead to a sudden cracking/breakage after a certain lifetime.
Carbon: the Rolls Royce of the frames. A material as light as a feather and extremely strong at the same time, which, with the adequate manufacturing technology, is virtually impossible to wear out. It is chosen by professional racers or very demanding users; unfortunately, it is very expensive.
What is the difference between the 26”, 27,5”, 28” and 29” wheel sizes?
26”: the most widespread wheel size in the universe of mountain bikes, since they are manufactured with this wheel size from the very beginning. It results in sufficiently fast and dynamic biking.
27,5”or 650B: a newcomer in the bike industry, designed especially for mountain bikes. The benefits of this larger wheel diameter materialise mainly in the power biking disciplines – it is faster, while at the same time the handling of the bike does not change significantly.
28”: also called 700C or 622: the wheel size traditionally used for city and trekking bikes.
29”: this is basically a 28” wheel size with balloon tires, once again used on mountain bikes. It is exceptionally stable due to the larger diameter and conquers the obstacles of forest paths more easily.
What is the difference between the internal gear hub and the external derailleur?
Internal gear hub: a completely closed mechanism that changes between the gears via the sprocket-group established within the shell of the hub. The system does not require any special maintenance, however, most of the internal gear hubs are not keen on gear-changing under load. It is recommended to stop pedalling while changing gears.
External derailleur: a simple and easy solution that, however, requires regular maintenance/cleaning. A cage guides the chain to the sprockets of different sizes, but this can only be done if we are pedalling, not intensively though.
What does the shopping process look like?
Where can I take a look at and try out the bikes?
You can check out and try out our bikes at our Gepida test centres; find the one closest to you using our store locator .
How can I pick up the selected bike?
In case of an online order, you can pick up your bike at many pick-up points across the country, where our partners will be awaiting you with an assembled, adjusted and ready-to-use bike. Shipping to the bike shop and store pickup are free of charge.
How long does the delivery take?
Your bike will be shipped to one of our stores according to your choice within 1-2 working days following the order. You will be informed of the bike’s arrival at the store and the possibility to pick it up in an email. You will have the chance to schedule an appointment at the store for the store pickup. For further information please visit our Delivery methods site.
Information about putting the bike into service
What is the proper adjustment of the...?
Seatpost
The comfortable saddle height is subjective, but generally, you must be able to reach the lowest point of the pedal safely when seated on the saddle.
Saddle
It is recommended to tilt the saddle forward a bit so that the nose of the saddle would not put pressure on the vulnerable areas.
Stem
The height and length of the stem are also questions of individual sense of comfort; it is recommended to ask for assistance at the professional service if our bike feels uncomfortable.
Brake lever position
It is recommended to position the brake levers in a way that they are reachable only to our fingers used for braking, with the smallest and smoothest possible movement. Both the angle of the levers and their distance from the grip must be adjusted individually.
Pressure point of the brakes
Adjust the pressure point in a way that, upon reaching maximum braking power, you are able to hold on to the handlebar firmly with all your fingers, but the lever does not touch the grip. The pressure point can be easily adjusted with the bowden-adjusting bolt, or the piston-adjusting bolt in the case of hydraulic brakes.
How can I vary the different parts for my bike?
Parts applied in the bike industry are standardised, but certain parameters may still vary. It is recommended to seek assistance from the professional service about compatibility before changing a part.
How to use the brakes appropriately?
Both the front and the rear brakes must be used, it is a misconception that it is safer to use only the rear one. The braking force is distributed between the front/rear wheels at a 70%/30% ratio, which results in the most effective braking performance. By using only the rear brake, the braking distance will be longer and the possibility of slipping increases.
Questions about guarantee
What are the guarantee conditions for Gepida pedelec?
The product is covered by a one-year warranty and a two-year full guarantee, which can be validated at the place of sale. The full guarantee covers the repairs free of charge, and the replacement of parts during the two-year period. You can find further information about the conditions of warranty and guarantee in our General Terms and Conditions (HU).
The high quality, the professional manufacturing technology and the expertise of Gepida’s engineers ensure that we offer a lifetime guarantee for our bike frames, for which you should register your bike in our system.
How can I identify my bike?
The primary identifier of the frame is the frame number which is usually engraved into the lower part of the bottom bracket casing. In addition, manufacturers usually use their own identification numbers. The primary identifier on Gepida bikes is the 14-digit ID number which can be found on a barcode label located at the bottom part of the frame, near the engine in the case of e-bikes and below the bottom bracket for traditional bikes. If the barcode label is damaged, you can find the same identifier on the last page of the guarantee booklet.
Where can I seek assistance if there is a problem with my bike?
In the event of a complaint, always turn to the place of purchase. The vendors have the appropriate expertise to rectify a possible error in seconds, or to decide if the complaint is legitimate. If the problem is serious and the guarantee claim is valid, the vendor forwards the complaint to the manufacturer.
Maintenance
What mandatory services are necessary?
It is absolutely necessary to have the bike checked by the professional service one and six months following the purchase, both in the case of traditional and electric bikes.
What kind of maintenance works must be regularly performed on my bike?
The most important is the continuous checking of the parts ensuring safe transport: condition of the brake shoes/rim, braking surface, examining the appropriateness of steering. In the case of parts operated by bowdens, it is recommended to check the bowden elongation every month, since this may result in the imprecise operation of the parts concerned. Check the pressure and the outer state of the tires regularly. You can find our user manuals here.
What kind of maintenance works can be performed at home, without assistance from the professional service?
Anything we are sure to be able to do alone, however, we must take responsibility for any damage that may occur.
What kind of detergents should I use for bike care?
Any cleaning material for cars or bikes on the market can be used. Surfactants must be avoided by all means, especially on varnished/coloured surfaces.
Glossy varnished surfaces: water-based cleaning agents
Matt varnished surfaces: clean water is recommended!
Chain or surfaces soiled with grease: alcoholic cleaning agents, stronger degreasing agents are also appropriate for the chain.
How to maintain the battery?
You can find information about the maintenance of the battery here.
How to prepare our bike for winter use?
The wearing parts are subject to greater use in wet weather conditions, therefore, it is important to ensure the lubrication of the drive appropriately. Furthermore, the rainwater can flow into the bowden casings, clogging them after a while, therefore, ensure their lubrication as well. It is important to follow the condition of the brake shoes with special attention, as due to the fine contaminants collected during winter use, their wear is faster, which results in the substantial decrease of the braking effect. It is recommended to have the bike fully lubricated/cleaned at the professional service after the wet winter season.
Practical information
How can I transport my bike?
Detailed information about transporting the bike can be found in the user manuals.
Some important information in the case of transporting the bike on a car:
- use only certified bike carriers
- before use, make sure that the carrier holds the bike in a sufficiently stable state and can be fixed it lastingly
- remove any accessories from the bike that may fall down during transport, thereby causing an accident
- during transport, pay attention to the size differences caused by the bike
Transport by means of public transport:
- means of public transport suitable for the transport of bikes are marked with signs and signals
- in case of rail transport, use the specific bike carriages; if no such carriage is available, seek information about the terms of transport before the travel
- fasten the bike in each case, and do not leave it unattended
What can be transported on my bike and how?
Usually, the carrier can bear up to 25-kg load, children under 22 kg can be transported safely solely in a child seat (DIN 79120).
What is Pedelec?
What is the difference between a pedelec and an e-bike?
There are currently two types of electric bike available on the market. The type made by Gepida is the pedelec, an acronym of pedal electric cycle. As the name suggests, a motor responds to the pedalling motion but stops when the rider stops pedalling. In other words, pedalling is assisted by a motor. The amount of additional power the motor provides is dependent on the pedalling force of the driver as measured by a sensor. This system is similar to power steering in cars.
Unlike the pedelec, an e-bike is an electric bike that can move forward without the rider pedalling. Speed adjusted using either a button or a throttle grip. The force exercised by the driver and the power delivered by the electric motor have no influence on each other’s performance. This allows the throttle and pedals to be used simultaneously, something that is not possible with a pedelec. A similar system is also used in mopeds.
What is the law regarding electric bicycles?
In the EU, laws governing pedelecs are the same as those for regular bicycles as the power delivered by the motor is less than 250 Watts and there is pedal assistance only until a speed of 25 km/hour has been reached. As a result, no driving license, registration or insurance are required. There is also no obligation to wear a helmet, although this is highly recommended.
The e-bike, on the other hand, comes under a different category to a regular bicycle as it can move forward independently of the pedals. Riders of e-bikes must therefore be insured and wear a helmet.
Who invented the pedelec?
The first pedelec was created in 1998 by the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer Yamaha.
How does a pedelec work?
An electric bicycle uses a hub motor directly inside the rear wheel for maximum battery-efficiency. Most electric bicycles use a 250 Watt motor capable of delivering speeds of around 25 km/hour. Gepida pedelecs use the Yamaha PAS electrical system, which includes an on-board computer to regulate power based on pedal pressure. The motor and battery are attached to the crank mechanism to ensure optimal weight distribution.
Pedelec in use
Who will benefit the most from our e-bikes?
- Those with an environmentally aware approach and considering the protection of the environment important
- An ideal means of transport for going to work
- The older generation who wish to keep fit and enjoy the delight of biking
- Businessmen wishing to avoid the awkward feeling of perspiration upon pedalling
- Postmen, delivery people and couriers for a convenient yet fast transport
- Guests of hotels and B&Bs for a convenient yet active sightseeing
- Bike-rental companies
What cleaning and maintenance does the pedelec require?
The battery in particular must be treated with some degree of care. We recommend allowing it to cool off after cycling and before charging. Although the latest battery chargers indicate when the battery is fully charged, it is advisable to charge the battery for a little longer as the final phase always takes slightly longer. As a rule of thumb, when the charger first shows a full battery, it is actually only 90% charged.
You should also try to store the battery at room temperature, avoiding extremely cold or hot conditions. It is best to allow the battery to discharge completely on first use as failing to do so can reduce its future performance.
Gepida pedelecs are resistant to rain and wind and can therefore be washed with water. However, some caution is advised when cleaning the battery and electrical system as water penetration can effect battery performance. More detailed information is provided in the owner’s manual that comes with your Gepida pedelec.
Where can I charge my battery?
The Gepida Pedelec contains a removable battery and a special Yamaha PAS charger for use in any power socket. The battery needs approximately four hours for a full charge, enough for around 50 km to 70 km of mixed use and more than 90 km in ECO mode. Factors effecting the range of a full battery include the weight of the rider, cycling style, the frequency of stops and starts, tyre pressure, the mode selected and the weather.
What is the range of a single battery charge?
This is a common question for many eBikers. There is no definitive answer. The number and variety of influential factors is simply too great. Sometimes a single battery charge will take you less than 20 kilometres, while at other times it will take you up to 80 kilometres. The e-Bike range assistant of Bosch will tell you just how many kilometers of support you can expect from your eBike system on your next tour.
The environmental impact of pedelec
What makes pedelecs so environmentally friendly and cost-effective?
As pedelecs use rechargeable batteries instead of fossil fuels, they are extremely environmentally friendly and efficient. Costing just €0.05 per 100 km, Pedelecs are the most economical form of mechanically powered mobility.
What are the advantages of lithium-ion batteries against other batteries?
There are four different battery types suitable for electric bicycles. SLA (sealed lead acid) batteries are similar to those found in cars. Nickel cadmium (NiCd) batteries are more lightweight than SLAs, but no longer comply with strict environmental regulations. Batteries containing nickel metal hydride (NiMH) produce more power than NiCd batteries and are also considerably lighter. The most advanced battery on the market is currently the lithium-ion battery, which delivers more power than any other type. The lithium-ion battery used in the Gepida Pedelec has a power rating of 8.2 Ah, can be charged in around four hours, weighs just under 2 kg and has a lifespan of 800 loading cycles at constant capacity.
