As of 1 January 2026, the Belgian Cycling Factory, who own such brands as Ridley, Eddy Merckx, Nukeproof and Aeres, has announced the introduction of a ‘transferable lifetime warranty’ to cover second owners, as well as the original purchaser. But before you get too excited, thinking that it will cover you for the next 50 years of your life… it’s the lifespan of the frame that is covered!

Eddy Merckx Corsa
Eddy Merckx Corsa (Image Credit: Mercxk Bikes)

‘Lifetime’ refers to the technical lifespan of the frame, with normal use and yearly maintenance by a certified BCF-dealer, and this is a fairly common definition among most bike brands.

The Belgian Cycling Factory uses a warranty limit of up to 10 years from the original purchase date, which is in line with the industry. As long as the bike has been registered within 30 days of purchase, then the warranty is valid. This new ‘lifetime’ warranty replaces the previous two- and five-year policy that was in force. Should you not register your bike, then a standard two-year warranty will remain in place as the default option.

To compare with other brands, currently both Specialized and Trek offer a lifetime warranty for frames and forks, if registered within a specified time; however, this is only for the original owner. They do offer a two-year (Specialized) or three-year (Trek) warranty for second owners from the original purchase date. Terms and conditions apply, naturally.

Cervélo also offers a lifetime frame and fork warranty for the original owner, but this does not extend to subsequent owners. 

Nukeproof-Downhil
Nukeproof-Downhil (Image Credit: BCF)

For our friends at off.road.cc, it should be noted that the Nukeproof Downhill models still retain a two-year warranty. No doubt because they will endure a much harder life if ridden flat out downhill!

Jochim Aerts, CEO of Belgian Cycling Factory, said: “With this move, BCF reaffirms its commitment to durable products, transparency and long-term relationships with both riders and retailers. The new warranty… forms part of a broader strategic choice: investing in long-term trust rather than short-term commercial incentives.”

So BCF says it wants to build long-term relationships between riders and their local dealer, as well as any second owners. It feels that the new warranty policy will strengthen the residual value of bicycles from Ridley, Eddy Merckx, Aeres and Nukeproof due to increased trust in the reliability of the frame and forks too. There’s also the sustainability angle, as bikes that are covered for longer should have a longer lifespan. 

Aeres-e-bike
Aeres-e-bike (Image Credit: BCF)

It’s worth noting that the Belgian Cycling Factory is family-owned, and since 1997 has only dealt with independent dealers. It aims to use “strong family values” in its business, as well as creating strong relationships with dealers too. BCF created the Ridley brand in 1997, and recently launched the Aeres city and commuting bike brand in 2025. In 2017 it acquired Eddy Merckx, followed by Nukeproof in 2025.

In brief, the new warranty policy applies to bicycles purchased from 1 January 2026, provided it was registered within 30 days of purchase and is subject to clear and transparent conditions regarding ongoing maintenance. As with any bike purchase, it’s worth checking the full T+Cs if you do plan on buying a bike from a brand owned by Belgian Cycling Factory.