FOLD Maintenance & Care

1. Maintenance intervals

Follow the inspections specified in the maintenance schedule. Whichever criterion is reached first applies:

• 1st inspection: after approximately 200 km, 25–50 operating hours or 2 months
• 2nd inspection: after approximately 1,000 km, 50–100 operating hours or at least once per year
• further inspections: at approximately 2,000 km, 3,000 km, 4,000 km and 5,000 km, and in each case after 50–100 operating hours or at least once per year

Individual components may have additional or different inspection intervals. Always follow the operating manual and the relevant manufacturer documentation.

2. Before every ride

Before every ride, check the general condition and function of all safety-relevant components.

• inspect the frame and attached components for cracks, scoring, damage or unusual colour changes
• for eFOLD: inspect the battery for damage and check that it is correctly seated and locked
• check front and rear brake function
• check the gear system for correct operation, unusual noises or blockage
• check the pedal drive for correct function and secure fit
• visually check bolted and plug-in connections for secure fit
• check folding joints, locks, locking pins, clamping mechanisms and levers for complete engagement
• check the handlebar and stem for secure fit
• check tires for cracks, foreign objects and correct inflation pressure
• inspect rims for damage and spokes for even tension
• check headlight and rear light function
• check the bell for correct function

Do not use your FOLD if components are damaged, locking mechanisms do not function correctly or other safety-relevant abnormalities are present.

3. Folding joints and locks

Folding joints, locking mechanisms, locking pins and clamping levers are safety-relevant components. Inspect them regularly for play, wear and damage.

All locks and locking pins must be fully closed or audibly and/or physically engaged. Damaged, stiff or unreliable locking components must be inspected and, if necessary, repaired by a qualified dealer without delay.

Do not use folding joints or locks to lift or carry the FOLD and do not attach additional loads to them.

4. Brakes

Brake pads, brake rotors and brake fluid are subject to wear. Inspect the braking system regularly and have brake adjustments carried out by a qualified dealer.

The disc brakes should be inspected regularly by a qualified dealer — annually, after 50–100 operating hours or after approximately 1,000 km — and serviced if required.

If braking performance decreases, the pressure point changes, brake fluid leaks, unusual noises occur or wear is uneven, do not continue riding until the cause has been professionally inspected.

5. Tires and wheels

Regularly inspect tires, rims and spokes for damage and wear. Tire pressure must remain within the limits specified by the tire manufacturer.

After the initial running-in period, the wheels should be inspected by a qualified dealer no later than 300 km, 15 operating hours or 3 months and re-trued if required. A six-monthly condition check is also specified.

During winter use, road salt and moisture can promote corrosion of spoke nipples, spokes and rims. Clean these components after riding on salt-treated roads.

6. Belt drive

Regularly inspect the belt and sprockets for wear and damage. Belt tension should be checked and adjusted regularly by a qualified dealer.

• do not kink, twist, bend backwards or turn the belt sideways
• clean the belt drive only with water and a soft brush
• use mild soapy water if required and rinse afterwards with clean water
• remove trapped particles carefully and never use sharp-edged tools

Belt tension may only be measured and adjusted using the manufacturer’s specified tool.

7. Cable steering system

The reinforced 2×2 cable steering system is factory-adjusted and requires little maintenance.

The user must not maintain or adjust the cable steering system. Maintenance and adjustment work on the cable steering system may only be carried out by an authorized FOLD dealer.

8. eFOLD and electrical components

For eFOLD models, the maintenance, safety and operating instructions of the relevant electric drive-system manufacturer also apply.

• remove the battery before working on the FOLD, particularly for cleaning and maintenance
• do not open, modify or manipulate the electric drive system
• have work on the motor, battery, wiring and electronic components carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• use and store the battery and charger only when undamaged and in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions

If the battery is damaged, has suffered a strong impact or has been involved in a crash, follow the manufacturer instructions and have it inspected by a qualified dealer.

9. Cleaning and care

Clean your FOLD and its components regularly. Follow the specific requirements for each component group.

• clean the belt drive with water and a soft brush
• clean brake components with a slightly damp cloth
• regularly remove coarse dirt from brake rotors using warm water
• clean gear-control components with a slightly damp cloth
• after contact with road salt, pay particular attention to cleaning rims, spokes and spoke nipples

Only use cleaning and care methods approved in the operating manual or the respective manufacturer documentation.

10. Storage

• clean FOLD before long-term storage
• store it in a dry, frost-free location protected from large temperature fluctuations
• for eFOLD, follow the drive-system manufacturer’s storage instructions for the battery and charger
• after extended non-use, check all components for correct function before returning the bicycle to service

If damage is found or you are uncertain, contact a qualified dealer before using the bicycle again.

11. After a crash or accident

Do not continue using the FOLD if it is damaged or if you suspect damage. Damage that is not immediately visible, such as hairline cracks, may still be safety-relevant.

Have the FOLD inspected by a qualified dealer after an accident, crash or exceptional load. Never attempt to straighten bent components yourself.

For eFOLD, also have the battery and electrical components assessed in accordance with the relevant manufacturer instructions.

12. Dealer & service

Maintenance, adjustment and repair work requiring specialist knowledge or special tools should be carried out by a qualified dealer. Use only original spare parts or components expressly approved by the manufacturer.