Usage Guidelines

Note: This translation is provided for your information only. Only the German version is legally binding. In the event of discrepancies between the language versions, the German version shall prevail.

These Usage Guidelines govern the use of BikeMates. They apply to all users aged 16 and over and are applicable internationally. In addition, the Messaging Guidelines of BikeMates apply, which form part of these Usage Guidelines.

BikeMates is a local social network for motorcycling enthusiasts. Content, contacts and events are aimed primarily at people in your area.

• BikeMates is accessible internationally; the rules apply worldwide.
• Minimum age: 16 years. Irrespective of this, the protection of minors under the Messaging Guidelines applies.

• Treat others with respect. No harassment, insults, hate, discrimination or threats.
• No deception about identity, age or intentions.
• Do not publish other people’s private information without their consent (no doxing).
• Respect private messages and confidentiality.

• Welcome: Motorcycle-related content (tours, technology, repairs, safety, training), local groups & events, classified ads relating to motorcycles (provided they are legal and honest).
• Unwanted: Political content that does not directly affect a large part of the community (e.g. general party politics, ideological debates). Exceptions apply only to specific changes that affect many motorcyclists (e.g. road traffic law, vehicle registration, driving licence regulations, vehicle tax) – in which case the content must be objective, fact-based and free of election advertising.
• Follower farming: Publicly calling on others to follow you on other networks (e.g. “Follow me on <platform>”) is prohibited. References in your profile are permitted, active calls to action in posts/comments are not.
• Advertising & self-promotion: Only in the area provided for this purpose (if available) and in compliance with these guidelines. Misleading, aggressive or unlabelled advertising is prohibited.
• Illegal content: Content that infringes rights or breaks laws (e.g. handling stolen goods, fraud, incitement) is prohibited.
• Protection of minors & sexuality: Any sexualisation of minors is strictly prohibited. The Messaging Guidelines apply.

The Messaging Guidelines against the sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children apply bindingly to messages, chats and shared media. Violations lead to measures up to and including permanent exclusion and, where applicable, criminal proceedings.

Content shown to you in view-once mode is expressly intended for you alone: it may neither be photographed or recorded nor passed on. The app prevents screenshots as far as the operating system permits; responsibility for this remains with you.

• No spam, bulk or off-topic postings, no chain letters.
• No phishing links, scams, pyramid schemes or fraudulent offers.
• No artificial manipulation of reach (bots, fake accounts, like swapping).
• No manipulation of ride data, best times, leaderboards, trophies or BikePoints – for example by faking locations, uploading other people’s rides or making recordings with a vehicle other than a motorcycle.
• No abusive use of the referral programme, in particular no secondary accounts in order to obtain rewards.

• Only share content for which you hold the necessary rights.
• Respect trade mark, copyright and personality rights.
• Infringing content will be removed; repeat cases may lead to exclusion.

• Do not glorify dangerous actions without context/safeguards. Provide safety information where appropriate.
• For events/classified ads: describe the place, time, disclaimer and safety aspects truthfully.
• Do not incite or organise violations of local laws (e.g. road traffic regulations).

• Reporting: Prohibited content/behaviour can be reported directly in the app via the ticket system — either to the respective community or to the BikeMates team. The reporting person remains pseudonymous towards the community.
• Review: All reports are reviewed manually — initially by the authorised administrators of the community, and by the BikeMates team in the event of escalation or reports relating to child protection. Cases involving a risk to minors have priority and are always forwarded to the BikeMates team.
• Preservation of evidence: Relevant data may be preserved (placed on hold) within the framework of applicable laws; cases placed on hold are excluded from account deletion.
• Retention: Completed reports are deleted six months after completion, provided they have not been placed on hold.

• Measures: removal of content, restrictions, removal or blocking by the community, temporary or indefinite account suspensions by the BikeMates team (the reason and the end of the period are displayed at sign-in), permanent exclusion up to and including deletion of the account.
• In the event of legal violations: reporting to the authorities as far as legally required, and cooperation with investigations.
• Repeated/serious violations may lead to permanent measures without prior warning.

• You can appeal against moderation decisions. We will review the case again.
• In CSAM-related cases, blocks/removals will generally remain in place in order to protect children.

The BikeMates privacy policy applies. Personal data is processed in accordance with applicable law. Do not share any personal data of third parties without their consent.

We may adapt these guidelines in order to reflect changes in the law and best practice. We will announce material changes in an appropriate manner.

Responsible:

BikeMates / LuMa Medien
Manuel Spielberger
Rechte Brandstr. 31
86167 Augsburg

Phone: +49 (0)821 567 338 31
E-mail: support@bikemates.eu

These Usage Guidelines enter into force upon publication and apply to all new and existing users of BikeMates.