Bike Rental in Bari

Poorly maintained bikes

I would not recommend Velo Service Rental. You may read the full story below, but the short version is that they rented us poorly maintained, very worn-out bikes that broke, then told us it was our financial responsibility to have them repaired. We rented 2 bikes for a 4-day bikepacking trip from Bari to Lecce. On pickup, they said we had a "5-minute to test the bike" period. The bikes seemed a little squeaky but appeared at that point to be working. We didn't do a close inspection and, frankly, aren't very experienced in bike maintenance (we realize we should have been more thorough and also taken pictures before accepting the bikes). The mild squeaking present initially got worse on day 2 and we noticed the rear gear hub on that bike was bowed and wobbling. Shortly after that the wheel failed completely. We were riding smoothly on roads the entire way and the bike was sized appropriately for the rider. We immediately contacted Velo Service to notify them of the malfunction (as well as when we noticed the wobbling issue earlier). They were able to provide the name of a repair shop close by but refused to pay for any part of the repair, and said if we brought the bike back early they would deduct the repair charge from our credit card. While trying to resolve the issue on the phone with them they said it was in the contract that we were responsible for any repairs that might be required after the acceptance period. In all fairness, we did not read that part of the contract, nor did we notice sign of poor bike maintenance before accepting them as we should have done. I would still say it is dishonest and in bad faith to rent out poorly maintained equipment with possible imminent malfunction, and then make it the responsibility of the customer when it breaks. I could understand having to pay for damage if you caused damage due to a crash, but this was not the case for us. The part was going to break at some point, and as the bikes are always rented out to customers, they will only ever malfunction while in customers' possession, making it their responsibility for the repairs. As a sidenote, after we returned the bicycles we received a message that there was something else broken and that they would deduct €160 more from our credit card. When I asked for pictures and a description of what was wrong, they said they "reinspected the bike and everything was fine". I would be wary of trusting this company.

via Tripadvisor

Wonderful service

Extremely friendly. Excellent bikes. Very good value. And the staff were extremely helpful especially Teresa. Puglia is a wonderful place to cycle around - beautiful coast , historic towns + amazing scenery. The cycling is not too tough. would recommend

Response from the operator: Thank you so much! We’re thrilled you had such a great experience and we’ll pass your kind words to Teresa 🚴‍♀️💛

via Tripadvisor

Didn’t bike went on afternoon tour which was poor because it was in Italian and poor english

Terrible bikes, then they wanted to give us others after I felt so uncomfortable with what they gave us. It was crowded and we chose annabfternoon tour instead but the guide spoke a poor English and it was led in both Italian and English, poor experience.

via Tripadvisor

Very nice experience!

Our guide Anna was top! Her explanation was clear and well-documented. She even spoiled us with a focaccia from the best baker in Bari! The tour gives a great impression of Bari’s diversity. Ann & Kristin from Belgium

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Bari for Family

very friendly and helpful team. Smiling ladies give all kinds of helpful tips. They communicate in many many languages. great city for a family trip.

Response from the operator: Thank you for your review! We’re so happy to hear that you found our team friendly and helpful. Our guides love sharing their knowledge and tips in multiple languages to make every experience special. Bari is indeed a great destination for families, and we hope to welcome you back for another adventure soon!

via Tripadvisor