Get yourself a reliable ride (seriously)

Before you master biking in Brussels, you need a bike that actually works. Sounds obvious, but ask anyone that had to drag a rust bucket across the city, and they’ll tell you it’s not.

That’s where Swapfiets comes in. Whether you go for a classic pedal bike or an e-Bike, you’ll get a high-quality ride with a fixed monthly fee. No drama, just a bike that’s always ready when you are. All Swapfiets bikes come with:

• Anti-slip tyre for that classic Belgian weather

• Double locks to keep thieves away

• Always-working LED lights (yes, you’ll need them 😉)

• Free repairs and swaps if anything breaks, because why not.

Think biking is too much effort? Try an e-Bike and prepare to be converted. It’s the quickest way to conquer long distances, and Brussels winds. Give it a spin with a free test ride, your legs will thank you.

Learn the rules of the bike roads

Brussels may look like organised bike chaos, but there’s a method to the madness. Here’s how to ride safe, smart, and not get yelled at by locals:

• Stay in the bike lane: This is a non-negotiable. Pedestrians have sidewalks. Bikes have lanes. Don’t mix them up.

• Use your hands: Signaling a turn with your arm is (and we can’t stress this enough) a must.

• Stick to the right: That way faster riders can pass on the left without drama.

• Respect red lights: Yes, even on a bike.

• Don’t bike on your phone: It’s illegal and honestly... just not worth it.

Always (always, always!) double-lock your bike

Bike theft is real, and unfortunately, super common. But with the right bike subscription, you can avoid becoming part of the stats. Swapfiets bikes come with built-in protection:

• Two locks included with every subscription

• Optional Full Theft Coverage (aka: no surcharge if your bike gets stolen and was locked properly)

If you choose an e-Bike, remember to remove the battery and double-lock the bike. For added peace of mind, our Full Theft Coverage add-on costs about the same as a cup of coffee. Worth it for a good night's sleep.

Don’t fear the Belgian weather

If you're waiting for perfect weather to ride, you’ll be waiting all semester. Brussels serves up sunshine, rain, and wind (sometimes all in one hour). Here’s how locals stay dry and keep pedaling:

• Always carry a raincoat

• Step up your clothing layering game; it’s easier to strip off than shiver- Use fenders and chain guards

Bonus points if your bike has anti-slip tyres... which all Swapfiets bikes do by default. They keep you steady so you can ride confidently, no matter the weather.

Tips to ride like a local (without getting side-eyed… or fined)

So, you’ve got the gear and you know the rules. Now here’s how to blend in like a true Brusselaar:

• Don’t ride side-by-side with your entire friend group: It’s fun. Until it’s not.

• Avoid ghost riding (guiding a second bike): It’s illegal and hard to do well.

• Park smart: Use racks. Avoid blocking sidewalks or entrances.

• Don’t forget the lights at night: It’s not just a vibe, it’s mandatory.

• Save loud convos for after the ride: Brussels bike lanes are no place for distractions.

Keep it moving with our free service

You're here to study, not to spend your time wrestling with a broken chain or a flat tyre. That’s where a Swapfiets bike subscription comes in.

Something came up? Just open the Swapfiets app, book a repair, and we’ll sort it out either at one of our stores or right where you are. If we can’t fix it within 10 minutes, we’ll swap your bike on the spot.

This is the core of worry-free biking. No stress. No extra fees. Just ride.