Whether it’s gravel, road, or mountain biking – what once was a minimalist sport has become a high-tech experience. And it’s not just about the bikes themselves. Today’s cyclists carry more than just a helmet and gloves: GPS units, action cams, smartwatches, and smartphones have become essential tools – for navigation, performance tracking, or documenting the ride.
But what if your tech fails – or worse, gets damaged mid-ride?
It’s a valid concern. Especially when things get rough on the trail, it becomes clear that many of these devices aren’t built for the rigors of real-world outdoor use – let alone the pounding of downhill trails, gravel descents, or a crash at high speed on the road.

“Plenty of mountain bikers mount their phones directly to the handlebars – but the brackets used often aren’t designed for aggressive off-road riding,” says Aaron Weihrauch, CEO of Weyrauch Repair, a certified repair partner of Wertgarantie. Even among dedicated recreational riders, equipment isn’t always aligned with actual demands out on the trail.
“Dedicated bike nav systems are becoming rare – most riders rely on their phones with apps like Komoot,” Weihrauch explains. “The problem is that phones often come loose, hit the ground hard – and are immediately damaged.” On rough terrain or uneven surfaces, one sharp jolt or sudden stop is sometimes all it takes.
Damage is also common in road cycling: “Road cyclists typically carry their phones in their jersey pockets – but in the event of a fall or even a sharp evasive maneuver, the phone can slip out and go flying,” says Weihrauch. “Smartwatches are frequent casualties too.” Today’s multisport watches are packed with sensors and open interfaces, but they’re not always up to the task when it comes to impact, moisture, or crashes.

When a tech device gets damaged, having a reliable insurance partner on your side makes a big difference. Wertgarantie takes a stand against throwaway culture with its “repair over replace” policy – and covers repair costs when things go wrong. “Whenever possible and economically viable, repairs are always prioritized. If a repair isn’t feasible, a replacement device of equal type and quality will be provided. And if neither option applies, the customer receives a predefined reimbursement for a new purchase,” explains Jenifer Rahmani, Head of Customer Service at Wertgarantie.
In Germany and Austria alone, more than 2,300 workshops are listed in the brand’s free online repair locator. With a 98% match rate, finding a nearby service partner is straightforward and fast.
Repair costs typically cover diagnostics, spare parts, and actual repair time. For common issues – such as cracked displays or worn-out batteries – fixed-rate pricing applies. More complex damage is calculated individually based on labor and materials needed.
The entire process is streamlined and digital: “Everything begins with a digital repair request – submitted by the retailer, insurer, or directly by the customer,” says Aaron Weihrauch from Weyrauch Repair. “The device is then evaluated in one of our certified workshops. Depending on the diagnosis, we proceed with repair, replacement, or report back to the insurer. Transparency, fast turnaround, and real-time status updates are standard for us.”
Additional support comes via the TechManager app from Wertgarantie. Users can report damage or theft in just a few clicks, track the repair status, and rely on a fully digital, transparent workflow. “With the TechManager, users always have full visibility over their devices and insurance coverage,” says Sönke Kopp, Head of Mobile App Solutions at Wertgarantie.
A smart protection solution for digital gear – and for a worry-free biking experience.

Repairing a product doesn’t just extend its lifespan – it also conserves resources, reduces electronic waste, and is often more affordable than buying a replacement. Especially when it comes to high-value devices, repair is not only a financially sound option but also the more sustainable choice.
On top of that, personal settings, stored data, and individual usage habits remain intact – a benefit that a replacement device rarely offers.
By focusing on the real needs of today’s athletes and outdoor users, Wertgarantie delivers a repair-first approach that is both practical and future-ready. Because true sustainability doesn’t start with recycling – it starts with repair.

Wertgarantie is a specialist insurer based in Hanover, Germany, founded in 1963. The company provides tailored coverage for electronics, household appliances, bikes, and e-bikes. Today, over 8.4 million customers across Europe rely on its services. Built on the philosophy of “repair instead of replace,” Wertgarantie stands for sustainability, customer focus, and a strong partner network in the specialist retail channel.
For outdoor sports, Wertgarantie offers customized protection plans. In addition to wearables, coverage extends to outdoor tech like action cameras or digital gadgets. Once damage is reported, devices are repaired either through partner workshops or by using the online dealer and repair locator.
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