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Van Raam produces uniquely special needs bicycles and specializes in tricycles, transport bikes, scooterbikes, wheelchair bikes, tandem bikes, double rider bikes, and low step trough bikes (also known as comfortbikes). Each model is also available as an electric bike (Pedelec).
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5 questions for Van Raam Premium Dealer Fahriante GmbH
Ellen Rondeel has been the Managing Director and owner of Fahriante GmbH in Obergerlafingen since 5 August 2009. In this article she answers some questions, so you can get to know the company better and find out what makes it so special.
1. Why did Fahriante GmbH become a Van Raam Premium Dealer?
We have been selling Van Raam bicycles since August 5th 2009. Through personal contact with members of management, we discussed early on the possibility of supplying the Swiss market with Van Raam bicycles. In August 2009, the time had come. We founded Fahriante GmbH, and as a premium partner, we sell these products exclusively in Switzerland.
We work with three people at Fahriante GmbH. My husband Rolf is co-responsible for the administrative tasks. Our mechanic Andreas Hirschi takes care of maintenance, repairs, service and warranty work and has been working with us for three years. Andreas is listed as an official service partner at Van Raam. I am responsible for the customer advice, sales and delivery of the bikes.
I want to emphasize that the cooperation with Van Raam factory is great and we have a very good working relationship. Together we always try to find the best solution for our customers and this commitment is really admirable. THANK YOU.
Finding the best solution for our customers at all times.
Ellen Rondeel2. How do you help customers who are looking for a Van Raam bicycle?
Test ride
All test drives are arranged in advance. Since we have practically the entire range of products on-site, customers can test drive the suitable model extensively. The showroom is located in a shopping area, where test drives can easily be arranged. On average, an appointment lasts 2 hours.
During a test ride, various options can also be fitted, such as foot shells, pedal shorteners and shifting aids. We also have helmets with a light on them on-site or in our mechanic's service warehouse.
Purchasing
After a successful test ride, the options are discussed with the customer, who (usually) receives a quotation within 24 hours. We have Van Raam bicycles in stock.
With a written order confirmation and a down payment, the bicycle is ordered from Van Raam. Before delivery, the bike is checked by our mechanic. The delivery procedure is carried out according to our checklist and the personal settings on the bike. At the end, we give useful tips to the customer.
3. How does Fahriante GmbH help customers who already have a Van Raam bicycle?
Our mechanic, Andreas Hirschi, has his workshop very close to us in Subingen/SO and arranges service appointments directly with our customers. If the customer can't bring the bike to the workshop, Andreas picks it up for a fee and returns it reconditioned. In the case of warranty claims, Andreas provides clarity with the Van Raam service department in the Netherlands and offers unbureaucratic solutions.
4. What is your best experience of a customer with a Van Raam bicycle?
I don't have just one, but hundreds of great experiences with our customers. Some of them have even become friends, which I appreciate. We often receive cards, photos or videos of trips from our customers, and we are allowed to put these snapshots on our website as an impression.
If I may pick one out, it is the delivery of an Easy Rider 2 tricycle to Conny in Valais. Conny is paralyzed on one side, as a result of a stroke. She wanted, on her difficult way back to independence, to cycle again. Without her knowledge, family and friends raised money and ordered an Easy Rider with extra options. We discussed all the changes with Conny's brother, and Conny did not know anything about it. It turned out to be a huge surprise. The ceremony at the handover was heartbreakingly beautiful. Conny has cycled many kilometres in the beautiful Valais and always sends us photos of her trips. (See photo of Conny)
Uncomplicated, spontaneous and open to the world.
Ellen Rondeel5. What makes Fahriante unique as a Van Raam Premium Dealer?
The Dutch are known as uncomplicated, spontaneous and worldly. For me, as a Dutch woman, the customer with their limitations and needs always comes first. I take a lot of time for consultations and help people to overcome their fears and give them back their freedom and independence on these beautiful bikes.
Insurance
In Switzerland, all citizens are covered by private liability insurance. In the case of additional home insurance, the purchaser can check the level of cover or the insured amount when purchasing the bike and adjust it if necessary.
I take a lot of time for consultations and help people overcome their fears.
Ellen Rondeel
Favorite Van Raam bicycle of Ellen: Easy Rider sitting tricycle
If I had to pick one model, it would probably be the Easy Rider tricycle. Because for many people, from young to old, it offers a safe riding option. Also, the new design of the Easy Rider 3 is stunning and shows the impressive innovations in modern bicycle design. But really, I think all models are great and unique because it is tailored to the countless needs of the customer.
View contact details of Fahriante GmbH
On the A1 Bern - Zurich take exit 40 (Kriegstetten, Biberist) and drive in the direction of Gerlafingen. In the first street on the left (before the COOP petrol station) you will find a white company building with a white corrugated iron façade. This is where the showroom is located.
By public transport you can take the bus from Solothurn Central Station, line 2 towards Kriegstetten, get off at Bolacker and walk about 50 metres.
There are sufficient parking spaces for customers in front of the building, also for vans. There is no charge for this.
Fahriante's contact details can be found on the dealer page.
More about Van Raam Premium Dealers
It is possible to order a Van Raam bicycle at a Van Raam Premium Dealer. A Premium Dealer has at least the following bicycles in his showroom:
Low step through bike Balance
Duo bike Fun2Go
Tricycle for adults Easy Rider
Tricycle Maxi
The dealer has product knowledge and a specialist is present. Furthermore, a workplace and skills to perform service are present. Read more about the different types of Van Raam dealers.
Get to know more Premium Dealers
Van Raam gives Premium Dealers the opportunity to introduce themselves in an interview of 5 questions. In this article you get an overview of all Premium Dealers who have answered these questions.
Do you have any questions?
We are happy to assist you! Please check our contact page or contact us directly using the options below.