NEW: Check out our VIDEO with test ride tips too!
Welcome to the Squad!
We know - everyone keeps asking about your Bunch Bike! Showing it off is fun - and also an amazing way to grow the family biking movement in your area.
The Bunch is different enough from a regular bike that folks really benefit from the opportunity to see it in person, talk to an owner and try it for themselves before deciding whether it's the right fit for them.
Ready to share your bike obsession - and help new families get rolling? Read on for test ride tips from our experienced All Stars!
Choose the right location
It’s okay to schedule test rides at your home if that’s best for you, but many All Stars prefer to use a nearby park or playground. This protects your privacy and also lets your kids hang out and play while you chat.
Choose a spot with a comfortable open space or wide paths where the rider can practice stopping, starting and steering without worrying about car traffic!
Get your bike ready
Make sure your tires are fully inflated, chain is lubed, battery is fully charged, and everything is in good repair. If you’re overdue for a tuneup - get it done before the test ride!
Do a quick scan and remove excess snack wrappers, socks, rocks, toys, sticks, wipes, etc. so the bike is reasonably neat and clean.
Put the bike in a medium gear and a low assist level to start, and make sure you're in a spot where the rider can comfortably start and turn.
Get the rider ready
Ask riders to sign the online waiver (www.bunchbike.com/waiver.) They can do it in advance or on the spot on their phones. This is for everyone's protection and also helps us give you full credit!
We recommend asking the rider to show their driver’s license or other ID. You can take a photo of it or hold on to it while they ride, whichever is more comfortable for you.
Ask your rider to stand next to the bike, and adjust the seat height for them.
It's not like a bike
Remind the rider that the handling will be very different from a normal bike!
With the parking brake on, let the rider climb on board, put both feet on the pedals, and get used to the feeling of not putting a foot down to balance.
Ride with weight!
It's much easier to learn how the Bunch Bike handles when it's fully loaded.
Do not send your rider to try the bike "empty" for their first time!
You can jump in the front of the box and ride with them as their passenger. Or the rider can go for a spin with their kids, their dogs, or their partner in front. In a pinch, you can provide a bag of sand or cat litter!
Once they're comfortable on the bike, it's fine to let them try it empty as well so long as they're prepared that it will feel different.
Basic controls
Show the rider how to swing the handlebar to one side in order to turn the bike. Remind them that it's different from turning a normal bike - more like turning a shopping cart or a double stroller!
Show the front and rear brakes and remind to use both hands to stop, since the front of the Bunch is much heavier than the rear. Remind them to take turns slowly.
Use the throttle
Let the rider know that pedal assist will kick in automatically as they pedal, and show them how to increase or decrease the power level as desired.
Important - also demonstrate the throttle! Using the throttle to glide through a turn may be easier for beginners than pedaling.
Remind riders that they don't need to put a foot down. Just take it slow and use the throttle to help!
Share your bike life
One of the most important advantages of Bunch Squad is that new riders get to meet families who are already in the bike life and can share their experiences!
Let riders know why you chose this bike, how you use it, and what the hard parts are too. Help them envision how the bike life changes your family routine. Share your fave accessories and be ready to answer questions about where you ride, how you park, and more.
If you get a question you're not sure how to answer, you can always refer folks back to us: info@bunchbike.com or 940-536-0597.
No pressure
Some riders will decide the Bunch Bike isn’t the right fit for their family. Or they may want to shop more and compare brands. That’s totally fine!
We’re glad to get to connect with new bike families, offer the opportunity to learn more and make cycling more accessible for everybody. You can always share the pros and cons for your family, but we don't trash talk other bikes - our bottom line is that all bikes are great :)
Inclusion program
We offer wraparound support for kids and parents with disabilities, medical or adaptive needs, including help with funding, supportive seating if needed, and connection with other families with similar needs. Please let eligible families know about our inclusion program so we can help!
THANK YOU!
We know that family to family, neighbor to neighbor is the best way to grow our family biking movement. THANK YOU for taking the time to share your bike life. Make sure to let us know once the test ride is completed so we can give you full credit! You can learn more about test ride rewards in the Bunch Squad handbook.
Test Ride VIDEO is here!
NEW: Check out our new VIDEO with test ride tips too!
Join the Bunch Squad?
Interested in giving test rides, organizing community events or advocating for family biking? If you're not a member yet - we'd love to have you in the Bunch Squad!
Members earn points, rewards and cash - and help make our communities more active, more sustainable and more connected. Click here to apply to join.
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