Guardian Bike Return Policy Guide (2026 Update)
Buying a bike online for a child can be stressful. Parents often worry about sizing, growth spurts, or simply whether the child will like the color. Fortunately, the Guardian Bike return policy is designed to completely remove that stress.
Unlike most bicycle retailers that require you to disassemble and ship a heavy box back to a warehouse, Guardian Bikes uses a unique, community-focused approach.
This guide covers everything you need to know about their 365-day return window, the simple donation-based return process, and exactly when you can expect your refund. We have verified all details below as of late 2025 to ensure you have the most accurate information.
Guardian Bikes Return Policy Overview
Guardian Bikes offers one of the most generous return windows in the industry. Because they are an online-direct company, they do not have physical store locations for returns. Instead, they ask customers to donate returns to a local charity.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Return Window | 365 days from the delivery date |
| Return Method | Local donation (No return shipping required) |
| Proof Needed | Photo of donation receipt + photo of bike at charity |
| Refund Method | Original payment method or store credit |
| Restocking Fees | None |
| Expedited Shipping | Partially refunded (up to $29) |
| Hawaii & Alaska | Must donate to receive shipping refund |
Return Window & Eligibility
The core of the policy is the 365-day return policy. This allows your child to test the bike for a full year. If they experience a sudden growth spurt or if the bike simply isn't the right fit, you are covered.
1. The 365-Day Rule
You have exactly one year from the day the bike was delivered to initiate a return. This applies to:
- Bikes (all sizes)
- Accessories
- Items covered under the Growth Spurt Guarantee
2. Condition Requirements
Guardian Bikes is very lenient regarding the condition of the bike because they want the bike to be used and tested.
- Eligible: Bikes with normal wear and tear from riding.
- Ineligible: Items that are damaged beyond repair due to customer negligence or accident.
3. Gift Cards
- Unused Gift Cards: Can be returned for a full refund within 100 days of purchase.
- Used Gift Cards: Cannot be returned or refunded.
Note: You do not need the original box to return the bike, as you will not be shipping it back.
How to Return a Guardian Bike (Step-by-Step)
The return process for Guardian Bikes is unique because it involves a donation return rather than a shipping label. Follow these specific steps to ensure your refund is approved.
Step 1: Locate Your Order
Find your original order number. You will need this to communicate with customer support.
Step 2: Find a Local Charity
Identify a local non-profit or charity that accepts bicycle donations. Common examples include:
- Local churches or religious organizations
- Boys & Girls Clubs
- Goodwill or Salvation Army (if they provide itemized receipts)
- Local foster care support groups
Tip: If you cannot find a place to donate, contact Guardian Bikes support. They can often help you locate a partner organization in your area.
Step 3: Donate and Document
Take the bike to the charity. Before you leave, you must take two specific proofs:
- Photo of the Receipt: A clear picture of the tax-deductible donation receipt given by the charity.
- Photo of the Bike: A photo of the bike at the charity location.
Step 4: Email Customer Support
Send an email to info@guardianbikes.com with:
- Your Order Number.
- The photo of the donation receipt.
- The photo of the bike at the charity.
Once they review these photos, they will process your refund.
Refund Methods & Processing Time
Once you have submitted your proof of donation, the refund process is straightforward, though it may take some time to appear on your bank statement.
- Refund Method: Funds are returned to the original payment method. If you paid with a gift card, you will receive store credit.
- Processing Time: Guardian Bikes states that refunds typically take 1-2 billing cycles to appear on your credit card statement after they process the credit.
- Confirmation: You will receive an email confirmation as soon as the refund is initiated on their end.
Exchange Policy
Guardian Bikes does not do a direct "swap" exchange where you send a bike back and they send a new one simultaneously.
Instead, the exchange policy follows the same steps as a return:
- Initiate the return for the current bike (via the donation method).
- Receive your refund.
- Purchase the new, correct size separately.
Because of the Growth Spurt Guarantee, if you bought a bike that your child outgrew within the first year (assuming you bought the size their RideSizer® tool recommended), they will help you facilitate this return so you can buy the next size up.
Fees, Deductions & Exceptions
While returns are generally free, there are a few financial details to watch out for.
Shipping Costs
- Standard Shipping: If you paid for standard shipping, this is generally included in your refund.
- Expedited Shipping: If you paid extra for faster delivery (e.g., overnight or 2-day), Guardian Bikes will only refund up to $29 of that shipping cost. You will not get the full expedited fee back.
Hawaii and Alaska Rules
For customers in Hawaii and Alaska, shipping costs are higher. To receive a full refund that includes your original shipping costs, you must use the donation method.
- If you choose to return the bike via shipping (which is difficult and expensive), you would likely be responsible for those costs.
- Donating locally is the only way to ensure a full refund of both the bike price and the initial shipping fees.
Non-returnable Items
There are very few restrictions, but be aware of these non-returnable categories:
- Customer-Damaged Items: Bikes that have been run over, crashed significantly, or modified to the point of being broken beyond repair cannot be returned.
- Used Gift Cards: Once a gift card has been used, the remaining balance cannot be cashed out.
- Trade-ins: Guardian Bikes does not accept trade-ins of older models.
Customer Support & Contact Information
If you need help finding a charity or have lost your order number, the Guardian Bikes support team is very responsive.
- Email: info@guardianbikes.com
- Phone: (888) 720-6852
- Live Chat: Available on the official Guardian Bikes website.
Support Hours: Generally available Monday through Friday during standard business hours (Pacific Time).
Guardian Bike Return Policy FAQ
Can I return a Guardian Bike without a receipt?
Yes, but you need your order number. Since Guardian Bikes is a direct-to-consumer brand, they can look up your purchase using your email address or phone number. You do not need a physical packing slip, but you do need the donation receipt from the charity.
How long does a refund take?
Once Guardian Bikes approves your donation photos, the refund is issued immediately on their end. However, depending on your bank, it may take 1-2 billing cycles for the funds to post to your account.
Do I have to pay for return shipping?
No. The Guardian Bike return policy is designed so you do not ship the bike back. You donate it locally, which saves you the cost and hassle of return shipping.
What if I can't find a charity to accept the bike?
If you are having trouble finding a local organization, contact Guardian Bikes customer support at info@guardianbikes.com. Their team can often assist in finding a partner organization in your area.
Does the 365-day policy cover scratches?
Yes. Normal wear and tear, including minor scratches from learning to ride, is acceptable. The bike only becomes non-returnable if it is damaged beyond repair or structurally destroyed.
Can I return accessories?
Yes, accessories purchased directly from Guardian Bikes are covered under the same 365-day window. You may need to follow a similar proof-of-donation or disposal process depending on the item, so email support for specific instructions on small items.
Is the expedited shipping fee refundable?
No, not fully. If you paid for expedited shipping, Guardian Bikes will only refund the amount equivalent to standard ground shipping (approximately $29). The rest of the expedited fee is non-refundable.
What is the Growth Spurt Guarantee?
This guarantee ensures that if your child outgrows the bike within 365 days of delivery, you can return it (via donation) for a refund or credit to apply toward the next size up.
Helpful Related Guides
Disclaimer: Return policies may change at any time and can vary by region. Always confirm details on the official Guardian Bikes website or with their support team. Information verified December 2025.
Found this helpful? Bookmark this page for the latest Guardian Bike return policy updates and check our other guides before your next purchase.
