Rebike partners with Schwalbe to close the loop on used tires

According to data from the Association of Cycle Traders (ACT), more than 30 million bicycle tires are thrown away every year in the UK – upwards of 40,000 tonnes. Across Europe, the problem escalates ten-fold, with the vast majority either landfilled or sent to energy from waste (EfW).

To tackle the issue head-on, Circularity Capital portfolio company Rebike has announced a pioneering partnership with premium tire manufacturer Schwalbe. As part of the agreement, worn tires replaced during eBike’s refurbishment process will be collected and recycled through Schwalbe’s dedicated collection program, which aims to facilitate recycling and reuse.

With more than 500 tires replaced every month at Rebike’s reconditioning centre in Bavaria, the collaboration will help the rental specialist to further reduce waste, keep resources in the value chain for longer and decrease CO2 emissions. In return, Schwalbe will benefit from guaranteed used tire feedstock.

As the initiative continues to grow, Rebike plans to ramp up its capacity to handle 20,000 tires a year, collected and separated for recycling at its facility in Kempten.

Sven Erger, co-founder of Rebike, commented: “We’re always looking for ways to think further about the concept of circularity in our processes. With Schwalbe, we are gaining a really strong partner. From now on, the bicycle tires we replace will no longer end up in the trash, but will be given a new life – just like our refurbished e-bikes.” 

Headquartered in Munich, Rebike is a sector leader in the rental and remanufacturing of premium eBikes. Operating the largest reprocessing centre in Europe, Rebike enables customers to purchase pre-loved models in ‘as new’ condition – with mechanical parts replaced and electronic parts, such as the battery and motor, inspected and serviced.   

This enables the use of eBikes across multiple lifecycles, through a unique subscription solution. The company even provides feedback on product design to its suppliers, ensuring future models can be optimised for longevity and sustainability. As a result, the average lifetime of every model is extended, while virgin manufacturing is displaced.

For more information about Rebike, visit www.rebike.com or watch our short portfolio video here: https://circularitycapital.com/rebike-portfolio.