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Modified on Fri, 17 Oct at 4:11 PM

MOD BIKES Return Instructions

Thank you for choosing MOD BIKES and for giving our products a try. We proudly offer a 14-day trial so you can experience a MOD BIKE in person before making a final decision. Shipping a bike both ways is expensive, but we believe in giving our riders peace of mind.

As a small Austin-based business, we put a lot of care into every order we ship out. All we ask is that you show the same care when sending your bike back. Taking a few extra minutes to re-pack it safely protects your refund and helps us continue offering this risk-free trial to future riders.

In this article: We’ll walk you through every step to ensure your MOD BIKE or SIDECAR arrives safely and your refund is processed without delay.




This Article Applies to the Following Bikes

MODEL
V1
V2
V3
V4
MOD CITY+ / STEP-THRU
MOD BERLIN / STEP-THRU
MOD GROOVE
MOD CARGO
MOD BLACK
MOD EASY
MOD EASY SIDECAR


Difficulty

☆ Medium


Estimated Time

45 - 60 Min


Before You Start

Tools you will need

  • Adjustable Wrench (included in your bike tool kit)
  • Multitool with Allen Wrenches (included in your bike tool kit)
  • Bolt Tray (or any small container for screws)
  • Heavy-duty packing tape (at least 2" wide)
  • Scissors or box cutter
  • Zip ties (for securing handlebars and accessories)
  • Original MOD BIKES box and internal packaging materials
  • Fork protector (included with your original packaging)
  • Mesh sleeves or equivalent protective padding
  • Accessory/component box for small parts
  • Your provided FedEx return label


Preparation

  • Ensure you have a clean, open workspace with plenty of room around the bike box.
  • Power off your bike completely and remove the key from the battery.
  • Lay out all packaging materials before you begin — this helps you visualize how everything fits back together.
  • Inspect your original box and foam inserts to make sure they’re not damaged. Replace any worn padding with similar protective materials.


Important Notes Before You Begin

  • Return Window

Your return must be shipped within 7 days of receiving your return label. Returns not shipped within this window will be canceled and ineligible for refund.

  • Original Packaging is Required

Your bike must be returned in its original box and protective materials. These were designed specifically to keep your bike safe during transit.

  • If You No Longer Have the Original Packaging

You are responsible for sourcing equivalent packing materials that provide the same level of protection. MOD BIKES does not supply or reimburse replacement packaging materials. Shipping a bike without proper packing may result in damage.

  • Restocking Fee & Refusal of Return

If a bike arrives damaged due to poor packing, a 25% restocking fee will be applied to your refund, and MOD BIKES reserves the right to refuse the return entirely.



Steps | Bike Packing Instructions

The visuals in this article show the MOD Easy, but the same packing process applies to all other MOD BIKES models.



Step 1: Remove the Pedals

  • Use your wrench (included in your bike tool kit) to loosen and remove both pedals. Set them aside safely.


Note: The right pedal loosens counterclockwise, and the left pedal loosens clockwise (it’s reverse-threaded).




Step 2: Remove the Headlight

  • Unplug the headlight julet connector by gently pulling apart the two ends (don’t twist).
  • Use your wrench and multitool to remove the bolt holding the headlight, and set the light aside.



Step 3: Remove the Front Fender

  • Use your wrench to remove the screws holding the front fender and both fender struts.
  • Once removed, place the screws back into the fork so they don’t get lost.



Step 4: Remove the Front Wheel

  • Use your multitool to loosen the quick-release lever and remove the front wheel. Set both aside safely.


⚠️ Do not touch the brake rotor (the thin silver disc on the wheel) to avoid bending it.




Step 5: Insert Caliper Spacer

  • Insert the caliper spacer back into the brake caliper.
  • If you no longer have the spacer, use a small piece of cardboard and tape it in place to prevent the brakes from locking during shipping.



Step 6: Install the Fork Protector

  • Insert the fork protector (included with your original packaging) into the bottom of the front fork. This part keeps the fork tips from bending or cracking during shipping.


Step 7: Remove the Handlebars

  • Loosen the bolts on the handlebar stem using your multitool.
  • Gently lift the handlebars off the stem and rest them on the bike frame.
  • Zip tie the keys to the handlebar so they don’t get lost during shipping.
  • Reinsert and tighten the bolts into the stem so they don’t get lost.



Step 8: Wrap Frame and Secure Pedal Crank

  • Wrap the main frames with cylindrical foam and hold it in place with tape.
  • Secure the crank arms to the frame with a zip tie to keep them from spinning.



Step 9: Wrap Handlebars and Front Fork

  • Wrap the handlebars using the original mesh sleeve or soft padding.
  • Thread the cables neatly under the main frame and zip-tie them to the right side of the bike to keep them from hanging loose.
  • Wrap the front fork in its mesh sleeve or padding as well.



Step 10: Protect the Rear Wheel Axle and Secure Chain

  • Cover both sides of the rear wheel axle with cardboard or foam padding.
  • Zip-tie the chain to the frame so it doesn’t swing or catch during transit.



Step 11: Wrap the Bike Frame

  • Slide the mesh sleeve over the bike frame. Make sure the entire frame, including the top tube and down tube, is fully covered and snug.



Step 12: Secure the Front Wheel and Fender

  • Wrap the fender in bubble wrap and zip-tie it to the front wheel.
  • Attach the wrapped front wheel and fender to the front fork using a zip-tie so they stay tight and don’t move.




Step 13: Position the Bike Inside the Box

  • Lift the wrapped bike (2 people needed) and carefully place it inside the box. Center it so the weight is even and stable.
  • Slide the thick cardboard support block (or any similar rigid piece) behind the rear tire to keep it from moving.



Step 14: Pack Accessories and Small Parts

  • Place all small parts—pedals, tools, fender struts, headlight, and quick-release skewer—into the original accessory box in their correct spots.
  • Make sure the box is closed securely before placing it inside the main box.



Step 15: Fill Empty Spaces

  • Fill all open spaces in the box with foam or padding so the bike cannot move.



Step 16: Seal the Box

  • Seal the box securely with strong packing tape on all sides. 



Step 17: Attach the Return Label

  • Attach your provided return label to the side of the box, directly over the original shipping label.


Note: Make sure only one label is visible to avoid confusion for the FedEx driver. 



Step 18: Drop Off or Schedule Pickup

  • You’ll need to schedule a pickup directly through FedEx. To do this, create a free FedEx account
  • Then, schedule a pickup. Select a pickup window at least 24 hours in advance.
  • FedEx requires a 5-hour window for pickup availability, so please plan accordingly.
  • If the scheduled pickup is missed, you will need to arrange and pay for a new pickup directly through FedEx.
  • Keep your shipping receipt until your refund is confirmed.


Note: At this time, bike boxes cannot be dropped off at FedEx locations due to their size and weight.





Steps | Sidecar Packing Instructions


Step 1: Remove the Mounting Plate From the Bike

  • Use your wrench to remove the mounting plate that connects the sidecar to your MOD Easy. 

  • Reinstall the U-bolts and quick-release pins onto the plate so small parts don’t get lost.



Step 2: Store the Mounting Plate

  • Place the mounting plate inside its designated foam compartment.



Step 3: Remove the Sidecar Wheel

  • Loosen the bolts holding the sidecar wheel and carefully remove it. 


Note: Reinstall the bolt and washer onto the axle so they don’t get lost.



Step 4: Remove the Sidecar Fender

  • Unscrew the sidecar fender and carefully remove it from the boat.

 

Note: Reinstall the screws back into the fender so you don’t lose them.



Step 5: Wrap the Sidecar Fender

  • Wrap the fender with its original bag. Place it inside the sidecar boat for safekeeping.



Step 6: Store Fender Spacer and Small Parts

  • Remove the adjustable arm, barrel bolt, and eyelets that connect the bike and sidecar.
  • Place them inside the tool pouch. 



Step 7: Place the Tool Pouch Inside the Foam

  • Put the tool pouch into its foam compartment (next to the mounting plate).


Note: Make sure all small hardware is inside the pouch to avoid losing anything. 



Step 8: Place the Sidecar Inside the Box

  • Carefully place the sidecar inside the box. Center it so the weight is even and stable.
  • Protect the center mount with foam.



Step 9: Add the Wheel and Foam Padding

  • Place the sidecar wheel inside the box on the front-left side of the sidecar.
  • Add the 3 foam pieces around the sidecar to keep everything snug and secure.



Step 10: Seal the Box

  • Seal the box securely with strong packing tape on all sides. 



Step 11: Attach the Return Label

  • Attach your provided return label to the side of the box, directly over the original shipping label. 


Note: Make sure only one label is visible to avoid confusion for the FedEx driver.



Step 12: Drop Off or Schedule Pickup

  • You’ll need to schedule a pickup directly through FedEx. To do this, create a free FedEx account
  • Then, schedule a pickup. Select a pickup window at least 24 hours in advance.
  • FedEx requires a 5-hour window for pickup availability, so please plan accordingly.
  • If the scheduled pickup is missed, you will need to arrange and pay for a new pickup directly through FedEx.
  • Keep your shipping receipt until your refund is confirmed.


Note: At this time, bike boxes cannot be dropped off at FedEx locations due to their size and weight.





What Happens Next?

  • Once your package is picked up by FedEx office, it usually arrives at our facility within 3–5 business days.
  • After we receive your return, our team will carefully inspect the bike/sidecar to make sure it’s in good condition and meets the return eligibility requirements.
  • When the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your refund details.

Please Note: The full inspection and refund process can take up to 14 days from the date we receive your return.



Final Reminder | Avoid a 25% Restocking Fee

  • We’re proud to offer riders the chance to try MOD BIKES with confidence, but proper packing is essential for us to continue offering this program. 
  • If your bike isn’t securely packed and arrives damaged, a 25% restocking fee will be applied, or the return may be refused.
  • Please take the time to pack your bike carefully — it protects your refundour small business, and future riders who will enjoy their MOD BIKES experience just like you.



 Troubleshooting

  • Bike doesn’t fit back in the box → Double-check that both pedals and the front wheel are removed. The pedals must come off first, and the handlebars should be positioned flat against the frame.
  • Box feels too full or won’t close → Ensure all accessories and small parts are in the accessory box, not loose in the main box. Fill spaces evenly with padding so the bike sits flat.
  • Return label won’t stick → Clean the surface of the box before applying the label. Use clear packing tape over the label edges to help it stay secure.
  • Old label still visible → Always cover or remove the original shipping label. Only one label should be visible to prevent confusion during pickup.
  • Missing fork protector or original packaging → Use thick foam or a dense block of cardboard between the fork tips to protect them from damage. Do not ship the bike without protection around the fork and frame.
  • Box feels unbalanced when lifted → Open the top and check that the bike is centered and the rear wheel is resting inside the cardboard support block. Adjust padding evenly on both sides.
  • Missing pouch or wallet → Use a small resealable bag or envelope to hold all bolts, spacers, and hardware together.
  • Can’t find where each part goes → Match the foam cutouts to the shape of the parts before sealing the box. Nothing should sit higher than the edge of the foam.
  • Mounting plate moves inside the box → Add extra padding or a folded towel underneath to fill the gap and stop movement.
  • Unsure if packed correctly → Before sealing the box, take a few clear photos and attach them to a new support ticket. Our team will double-check that everything looks safe and let you know you’re good to ship.


⚠️ Important: Do not ship your bike/sidecar without protective wrapping or fork support. Damage caused by poor packing may result in a restocking fee or refused return.



FAQs

  • How long do I have to ship my return?
    You have 7 days from the time you receive your return label to ship your bike. Returns shipped after this window may be canceled.
  • Do I have to use the original box?
    Yes. The original packaging is designed to protect the bike in transit. If you no longer have it, you must find equivalent materials that provide the same level of protection.
  • What happens if my bike/sidecar arrives damaged?
    If the bike arrives damaged due to poor packing, a 25% restocking fee will be applied, or the return may be refused.
  • Do I need to include photos of the packing?
    No, photos aren’t required. However, if you’re unsure whether your bike is packed securely, we recommend taking a few photos before sealing the box and sending them to our team for a quick review. This can help confirm that everything looks safe before you ship.
  • When will I receive my refund?
    After your return arrives, the inspection and refund process can take up to 14 business days. You’ll receive a confirmation email once the refund is processed.
  • What if I can’t find my fork protector or padding?
    Use thick cardboard, foam, or soft materials to protect all contact points (especially around the fork, frame, and wheel axles). If you’re unsure, send photos to our support team for approval.


Warning

⚠️ Important Safety & Liability Notice

These instructions are provided as a general guide for safely packing and returning your MOD BIKE. Always make sure your bike is properly protected, with all components securely wrapped and padded before shipping. Improper packing may result in damage during transit and could affect your refund.

If you’re not confident performing these steps, please reach out to MOD BIKES Support before shipping your return. MOD BIKES is not responsible for damage or loss caused by improper packagingmissing protection materials, or failure to follow these return guidelines.