Last updated: 23 December 2025

Definitions

These Terms and Conditions (also referred to as the "Terms") govern the rental use of bicycles provided by Mela Bike.

Mela Bike is the commercial name under which the services described in these Terms are provided.

For the purposes of these Terms:

“Renter” refers to the individual who makes the booking, enters into the rental agreement, accepts these Terms, and is financially and contractually responsible for the rental.

“Rider” refers to any individual who physically uses or rides a bicycle provided under a booking, including the Renter where applicable.

1. Scope of Service

Mela Bike provides the temporary rental of electrically assisted bicycles (Pedelecs, commonly referred to as e-bikes), together with helmets, visibility vests, and accessories as specified in each booking. The availability of accessories may vary.

As part of the rental experience, Mela Bike may offer route suggestions, practical guidance, or general advice to help customers enjoy their ride. This information is provided for convenience only, may not reflect real-time conditions, and does not constitute a professional guided-tour service requiring a licensed tourist guide under Maltese law (Travel and Tourism Services Act, Cap. 409, S.L. 409.12).

Riders remain solely responsible for:

  • evaluating the suitability and safety of suggested routes
  • monitoring weather, sea spray, traffic, and local conditions
  • their own decisions during the ride

Mela Bike is not responsible for changes in route conditions, closures, terrain difficulty, or any consequences of Rider choices.

2. Booking and Payment

Bookings are confirmed once payment has been received and acknowledged by Mela Bike. Confirmation may be provided by electronic means, including direct messages or chat communication.

Bookings are subject to operational availability, mechanical condition of the bicycles, and safety considerations.

Mela Bike is not liable for technical, communication, or system errors that result in incorrect availability or pricing display.

Mela Bike reserves the right to refuse or cancel bookings in cases of incorrect information, payment issues, suspected misuse, safety concerns, or unavailability of equipment. In such cases, any payment already made will be refunded unless the Refund and Cancellation Policy provides otherwise.

All prices displayed or communicated include VAT.

Refunds and cancellations are governed by our separate Refund and Cancellation Policy, which forms part of these Terms and is available on the official website.

3. Delivery and Pickup

Mela Bike is based in Gozo, Malta. Unless otherwise agreed in writing, all bicycles must be collected from and returned to Mela Bike’s main site during the agreed handover times.

Delivery and pickup within Gozo may be arranged in advance and is subject to distance, timing, accessibility, and operational capacity. Delivery does not form part of the standard rental service and is provided strictly at Mela Bike’s discretion.

Delivery or pickup in Malta may be considered on a case-by-case basis only and is not guaranteed. Any delivery-related pricing or information displayed on the website is indicative and becomes binding only when explicitly confirmed by Mela Bike.

The Renter understands that delivery and pickup may be subject to factors outside Mela Bike’s control, including ferry schedules and weather conditions. Delays or inability to deliver due to such circumstances do not entitle the Renter to compensation, refunds, or alternative transport unless expressly covered by the Refund and Cancellation Policy.

Mela Bike reserves the right to decline or modify delivery requests that are not reasonably compatible with operational schedules, safety considerations, or logistical constraints.

4. Use of Equipment

The Riders must use the bicycles and all equipment responsibly and in accordance with Maltese traffic regulations.

4.1 Bicycle Type and Legal Compliance

All bicycles provided are electrically assisted bicycles (Pedelecs) as defined under Subsidiary Legislation 65.26 – Low-Powered Vehicles and Pedal Cycles Regulations. They provide pedal assistance up to 25 km/h with an output not exceeding 250 watts and do not require a driving licence or insurance.

4.2 Safety Equipment

Each Rider is provided with a helmet. Reflective strips or other reflective equipment are provided when applicable, including when the Rider indicates that riding at night is intended.

Acceptance of a helmet is a condition of rental. The Renter confirms that a helmet has been provided and made available for use to each Rider included in the booking.

Helmet use is a condition of riding the bicycle. Mela Bike cannot physically enforce helmet use once the rental has commenced. Responsibility for compliance rests solely with the Rider. Riders who choose not to wear a helmet do so entirely at their own risk.

The use of reflective equipment is mandatory when riding in the dark, as required by Maltese law. Responsibility for compliance rests with the Rider.

4.3 Age, Height, and Competence Requirements

  • the minimum age for Riders is 18 years old.
  • Riders must meet the manufacturer’s minimum height requirement of 150 cm and must not exceed the manufacturer’s maximum weight limit of 130 kg
  • by renting, the Renter confirms that all Riders are physically capable of safely controlling an electrically assisted bicycle weighing approximately 30 kg.
  • the Renter acknowledges that Mela Bike does not routinely verify age, height, or weight and accepts full responsibility for ensuring compliance with these requirements.
  • a Rider who appears impaired, intoxicated, or otherwise unable to safely operate the bicycle may be refused service or have the rental withdrawn at Mela Bike’s discretion.

4.4 Responsibility for Additional Riders

The Renter is fully responsible for all Riders who use any bicycle included in the booking, regardless of whether the Renter is physically present at all times.

The Renter is responsible for communicating these obligations and ensuring that all Riders are eligible, informed of, and agree to comply with all requirements, traffic laws, and safety obligations.

4.5 Prohibited Uses

  • ride recklessly or dangerously
  • ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • attempt stunts, jumps, off-road riding, or engage in competitive use
  • carry passengers
  • ride after noticing a mechanical issue without stopping and reporting it
  • tow, push, or carry loads beyond the bicycle’s intended design
  • carry loads exceeding the manufacturer’s specified maximum load of 25 kg on the rear rack, or load the bicycle in a manner that adversely affects stability or control
  • alter, attempt to alter, or interfere with any electronic settings, speed limits, software parameters, or display configurations of the bicycle

4.6 Identity and Eligibility Verification

Mela Bike may require the Renter to confirm their identity and eligibility at the time of handover, including verification of age, in order to ensure compliance with these Terms.

Such verification may consist of a brief visual check or comparison with booking information and does not necessarily require the presentation, copying, or retention of identification documents.

If the Renter or any Rider cannot reasonably be confirmed to meet the applicable age or eligibility requirements, Mela Bike reserves the right to refuse or withdraw the rental.

4.7 Handover and Acceptance of Equipment

Before the rental begins, the Renter and any accompanying Riders are given the opportunity to test the bicycle or bicycles and ensure that they are suitable, comfortable, and functioning as expected.

Mela Bike may assist with basic adjustments such as saddle height or handlebar alignment.

By taking possession of the bicycle or bicycles and leaving the handover location, the Renter acknowledges that all of the following apply:

  • the bicycle or bicycles were inspected and accepted in good working order
  • any visible damage was reported before departure
  • the bicycle or bicycles are suitable for the Rider’s size, skill level, and intended use, as accepted by the Renter
  • the Rider meets the applicable age, height, and competence requirements
  • the Renter is satisfied with the adjustments made or has chosen to proceed as is

Any issues not reported at the time of handover are presumed not to have existed before the rental.

4.8 GPS Tracking

Bicycles may be equipped with GPS tracking devices for theft prevention, asset recovery, and maintenance monitoring.

Tracking data relates to the bicycle only and is not used to identify, profile, or evaluate an individual Rider’s behaviour.

Mela Bike may use anonymised or aggregated tracking data for operational analysis, fleet optimisation, or service improvement purposes, provided such data cannot reasonably be used to identify individual Riders.

Use of bicycles equipped with tracking devices is a condition of rental.

5. Responsibility and Damages

5.1 General Responsibility

The Renter is responsible for all bicycles included in the booking and for any Rider who uses them. The Renter must ensure that all Riders comply with these Terms.

Any damage, loss, or harm caused by improper, negligent, reckless, or abusive use is the responsibility of the Renter.

5.2 Normal Wear and Tear

Mela Bike does not charge for ordinary wear and tear, including but not limited to:

  • flat tires
  • tire wear
  • brake pad wear
  • chain wear

These occurrences are considered part of normal use.

5.3 Damage or Loss Due to Misuse

The Renter agrees to reimburse Mela Bike for reasonable repair or replacement costs resulting from:

  • impacts or crashes
  • water damage caused by improper use
  • tampering with electronics, brakes, drivetrain, or wiring
  • unauthorised repairs or adjustments beyond basic seat-height changes
  • riding with unsecured loads
  • continued riding after noticing unusual noises or mechanical issues
  • allowing unauthorised, unapproved, or underage Riders to use the bicycle
  • any conduct listed under Section 4.5 (Prohibited Uses)

Liability is limited to the reasonable repair cost or, when repair is not possible, the replacement value of the affected component or bicycle.

5.4 Theft

In Gozo, bicycles generally do not require locking when left unattended for short periods. Mela Bike does not require the Renter to secure bicycles with locks unless they choose to do so. Locks may be provided upon request.

The Renter is responsible for the bicycle and for all accessories, peripherals, and equipment supplied with it, including but not limited to helmets, reflective equipment, lights, bags, phone holders, straps, chargers, and other add-ons.

Mela Bike does not charge the Renter for theft of a bicycle or accessories unless the loss results from gross negligence, including but not limited to:

  • abandoning the bicycle or accessories for extended periods
  • leaving them in restricted-access or inappropriate locations
  • giving the bicycle or accessories to unauthorised third parties
  • leaving keys, chargers, or security devices attached or unattended in a manner that facilitates loss or theft

Mela Bike is not liable for any injury, accident, or damage involving a bicycle after it has been stolen, nor for any third-party claims arising from such incidents.

GPS tracking, when available, may be used to assist in determining the circumstances of the loss.

5.5 Timely Reporting

The Renter must report any damage, malfunction, accident, or suspected theft to Mela Bike as soon as reasonably possible.

Delayed reporting may be treated as negligence if it increases loss or prevents recovery.

5.6 Failure to Return

Failure to return a bicycle at the agreed time and location without prior agreement may result in additional charges, including charges for loss of use.

Where a bicycle is not returned as agreed and the Renter fails to respond to reasonable attempts at contact, or otherwise retains possession without authorisation, Mela Bike may treat the situation as unlawful retention.

Any loss or damage occurring during a period of unauthorised retention may be treated as negligence under this section.

In such cases, Mela Bike reserves the right to take reasonable steps to recover the bicycle, including the use of GPS tracking data where available, and to report the matter to the competent authorities if appropriate.

5.7 No Deposit

No security deposit is required at booking. However, the Renter remains fully financially responsible for the bicycles and accessories in accordance with this Section.

6. Liability and Risk

6.1 Inherent Risks

Cycling, including the use of electrically assisted bicycles, involves inherent risks. By renting and riding a bicycle from Mela Bike, the Renter and all Riders acknowledge and accept these risks, including the possibility of falls, collisions, loss of control, and unpredictable interactions with traffic, pedestrians, animals, terrain, and weather.

6.2 Rider Responsibility

Riders remain solely responsible for:

  • choosing appropriate routes and riding conditions
  • assessing their own ability to operate the bicycle safely
  • complying with traffic regulations and local laws
  • maintaining proper awareness and control at all times

Mela Bike has no responsibility for decisions made by Riders relating to the use of the bicycles.

6.3 Condition of Equipment

Mela Bike conducts routine functional checks but does not guarantee uninterrupted performance or suitability for any specific terrain or use.

Riders must immediately stop using the bicycle if a mechanical issue is detected.

The Renter must ensure that such issues are reported to Mela Bike without delay.

6.4 Exclusion of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by Maltese law, Mela Bike is not liable for:

  • injury or accidents suffered by Riders or third parties
  • property damage caused by Rider actions or decisions
  • losses arising from misuse, improper handling, or prohibited uses
  • damage or loss resulting from weather, road conditions, traffic behaviour, or unforeseeable events

Nothing in these Terms excludes liability where such exclusion is prohibited by law.

6.5 No Personal Insurance Provided

Mela Bike does not provide personal accident insurance or insurance covering injury, illness, or death of Riders.

Riders are solely responsible for obtaining any personal insurance coverage they consider appropriate.

Mela Bike may, at its discretion, provide information about or facilitate access to third‑party insurance products or services. Any such insurance is offered by independent providers and is subject to their own terms and conditions.

Mela Bike does not act as an insurer, insurance intermediary, or advisor, and accepts no responsibility for the availability, suitability, or performance of any third‑party insurance.

6.6 Public Liability Insurance

Mela Bike may hold public liability insurance covering its own legal liability.

Such insurance, when in place, applies only to Mela Bike’s liability under Maltese law and does not extend to the personal liability of the Renter or Riders unless expressly stated in writing.

 

7. Roadside Assistance and Mechanical Issues

7.1 General Principle

Mela Bike provides roadside assistance within Gozo as part of the rental service. This assistance is subject to availability, staff scheduling, location accessibility, and operational capacity.

Provision of roadside assistance does not imply the existence of a defect, fault, or failure on the part of Mela Bike, does not constitute an admission of liability, and does not alter the allocation of risk or responsibility set out in these Terms.

7.2 Included Situations

Assistance may be provided for mechanical issues not caused by misuse, including:

  • punctures and flat tires
  • repeated chain derailments that indicate a potential mechanical fault
  • minor mechanical failures arising from normal use

A single chain derailment is considered a normal and user-correctable occurrence. Riders are expected to reposition the chain themselves using basic guidance. In‑person assistance is not provided for a one‑off chain drop.

7.3 Excluded Situations

Roadside assistance is not provided for:

  • issues arising from prohibited uses under Section 4.5
  • locations that are unsafe, inaccessible, deep off-road, unmarked, or restricted
  • situations created by Rider negligence, misuse, or ignoring mechanical warning signs

If feasible, the Rider may be asked to move the bicycle to a public road or accessible area for collection.

7.4 Remote Support

Where practical, Mela Bike may offer remote or virtual guidance to assist with resolving minor issues or Rider concerns, including but not limited to:

  • repositioning a chain
  • tightening a seat clamp
  • checking quick‑release components
  • basic operation of the bicycle’s power and display systems
  • clarification of normal system behaviour, including temporary power reduction or heat-related cut-offs during extended use
  • guidance on allowing components to cool or reset where such behaviour is consistent with normal operation

Remote guidance does not constitute a diagnosis, repair, or guarantee of continued operation.

7.5 Replacement Bicycles

Where a mechanical failure not caused by misuse prevents normal operation of a bicycle and cannot be resolved through roadside assistance or remote support, Mela Bike may, at its discretion, provide a replacement bicycle, subject to availability and operational constraints.

The provision of a replacement bicycle is the primary remedy offered for qualifying mechanical issues. Replacement availability depends on factors including location, timing, fleet capacity, and logistical feasibility.

The inability to provide a replacement bicycle does not, by itself, constitute an admission of fault, service failure, or liability on the part of Mela Bike.

Any entitlement to refunds, partial refunds, or other financial adjustments arising from mechanical issues, replacement availability, or service interruption is governed exclusively by the Refund and Cancellation Policy.

7.6 Rider Responsibility During Issues

If a mechanical issue arises, the Rider must stop using the bicycle immediately.

Continuing to ride after a fault appears may be treated as misuse under Section 5.

7.7 No Guarantee of Recovery or Transport

Mela Bike does not guarantee Rider or bicycle transport in any circumstances and does not provide evacuation, rescue, or emergency services.

Riders remain responsible for ensuring they are capable of reaching a safe or accessible location by their own means if assistance is unavailable.

In the event of injury, medical emergency, or situations requiring urgent assistance, Riders are responsible for contacting emergency services directly.

Any transport, assistance, or support provided by Mela Bike outside the scope of the rental service is offered voluntarily, at Mela Bike’s discretion, and does not constitute an admission of liability or create any ongoing obligation.

 

8. Force Majeure

8.1 Definition

Mela Bike is not responsible for any delay, disruption, modification, or failure to provide services caused by events beyond its reasonable control (“Force Majeure Events”).
Force Majeure Events include, but are not limited to:

  • severe weather or adverse sea conditions
  • ferry cancellations, transport interruptions, traffic closures, or public transport delays
  • accidents, road blockages, or emergency response activity
  • power outages, network failures, or communication breakdowns
  • illness or unavailability of staff due to unforeseen circumstances
  • acts of vandalism, civil disturbance, or criminal activity
  • instructions from authorities or regulatory restrictions
  • any other event that makes service provision unsafe, impractical, or impossible

8.2 Suspension of Obligations

During a Force Majeure Event, Mela Bike’s obligations — including delivery, pickup, roadside assistance, or replacement bicycles — may be suspended without liability.

Mela Bike is not required to provide refunds or compensation for interruptions caused by Force Majeure Events unless explicitly required by Maltese law.

8.3 Customer Responsibility

Renters remain responsible for returning the bicycle safely once conditions permit.
If a Force Majeure Event prevents return at the scheduled time, the Renter must notify Mela Bike as soon as reasonably possible so that alternate arrangements can be coordinated when conditions allow.

8.4 Restoration of Service

Services will resume once conditions permit, at Mela Bike’s discretion, based on operational capacity and safety.

9. Modification of Terms

Mela Bike may update or modify these Terms from time to time.

The version of the Terms that is publicly available and in force at the time a booking is completed governs that booking.

Any updates or modifications apply only to bookings made after the updated Terms are published, unless a change is required by law.

10. Privacy and Data Protection

Mela Bike processes personal data in accordance with its Privacy Policy.

11. Governing Law

These Terms, and any dispute or claim arising out of or in connection with them or with the rental relationship, are governed by the laws of Malta.

The Maltese courts shall have exclusive jurisdiction to hear and determine any such disputes or claims.

12. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid, unlawful, or unenforceable by a competent authority, that provision shall be deemed modified to the minimum extent necessary to render it valid and enforceable.

If such modification is not possible, the provision shall be deemed severed from the Terms.

The remaining provisions shall continue in full force and effect and shall not be affected by the invalidity or unenforceability of any individual provision.

13. Contact

For questions, complaints, or claims, contact Mela Bike:

Email (formal): legal@mela.bike (formal inquiries)

Email (general): info@mela.bike

Address: TRIQ MALTA, MISRAH IL-FLIEGU BLK H, FL 11, GHAJNSIELEM GSM 1329