Electric Bike Insurance: What You Need To Know

Electric bikes are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport, but how do you insure them? In the UK, if your cycle has pedals and an electric motor of no more than 250 watts that cuts out once you're travelling more than 15.5 mph, it's considered an EAPC (electrically assisted pedal cycle) or e-bike. You can insure your e-bike through a specialist provider, or as part of your home insurance policy. Specialist e-bike insurance policies can include cover for theft, accidental damage, vandalism, and public liability.

Theft cover

Electric bikes can be insured against theft, accidental or malicious damage, and public liability. Theft cover can be included in your home insurance policy or as part of specialist cover.

If you want to insure your electric bike against theft, you will need to check the terms of your insurance policy carefully. Some policies will only cover theft from your home, while others will cover theft when you are out and about. You may also need to list your e-bike individually on your contents policy if it is worth more than the amount of cover offered specifically for bikes.

When taking out theft cover for your electric bike, it is important to remember that not all policies are the same. Some policies will only cover theft if the bike has been specifically manufactured as an e-bike, rather than a retrofitted road or mountain bike. Additionally, the power output of the motor may also be a factor in determining whether your e-bike is eligible for theft cover. In the UK, for example, an electric bike with a motor of no more than 250 watts that cuts out once you are travelling more than 15.5 mph is considered an EAPC (electrically assisted pedal cycle) and can be ridden anywhere a conventional bicycle can be used.

It is also worth considering the level of cover you need. Some policies will only cover the cost of the bike itself, while others may also include accessories. It is important to read the fine print of your policy to understand exactly what is and is not covered in the event of theft.

Accidental damage cover

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are classed as EAPCs (electrically assisted pedal cycles) in the UK if they have pedals and an electric motor of no more than 250 watts that cuts out once you’re travelling more than 15.5 mph.

When it comes to insuring an electric bike, accidental damage cover is an important consideration. This type of cover will protect you financially in the event that your e-bike is damaged accidentally. For example, if you were to crash your e-bike or if it were to be damaged by a falling object, accidental damage cover would help to pay for the repairs or replacement of your e-bike.

There are a few different ways to obtain accidental damage cover for your e-bike. One option is to add your e-bike to your home insurance policy as a specified item. This will typically provide cover for accidental damage to your e-bike, as well as theft and vandalism. However, it's important to note that the level of cover provided by home insurance policies can vary, so it's always best to check the terms and conditions carefully.

Another option is to take out a specialist e-bike insurance policy. These policies are designed specifically for electric bikes and typically include accidental damage cover as standard. Some providers, such as Direct Line, offer cycling insurance that covers electric 'pedal assist' bikes with up to 250 watts of max output and a top speed of 15.5 mph. This type of policy can provide peace of mind, knowing that you're covered in the event of accidental damage to your e-bike.

When choosing an e-bike insurance policy, it's important to consider the level of cover you need. Some policies may only cover theft, while others may offer more comprehensive cover that includes accidental damage. It's also worth considering any exclusions or limitations that may apply, such as a maximum payout amount or specific circumstances in which accidental damage is not covered. By carefully reviewing the terms and conditions of different policies, you can ensure that you have the right level of cover for your needs.

Public liability cover

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are classed as EAPCs (electrically assisted pedal cycles) if they have pedals and an electric motor of no more than 250 watts that cuts out when you’re travelling more than 15.5 mph. In the UK, these can be ridden anywhere a conventional bicycle can be used.

When it comes to insuring an electric bike, there are a few options to consider. You may be able to insure your e-bike as part of your home insurance policy, which could give you cover for theft, accidental damage or vandalism, and public liability. Alternatively, you can take out specialist electric bike insurance.

When considering public liability cover for your electric bike, it's important to review the specific terms and conditions of the policy. Different insurance providers may have varying levels of coverage and exclusions. Some policies may only cover damage or injury caused by the e-bike itself, while others may extend to cover any accessories or additional equipment you may be using. It's also important to understand the limits of your public liability cover, as there may be a maximum amount that the insurance provider will pay out in the event of a claim.

Additionally, it's worth considering the excess amount you would need to pay in the event of a claim. The excess is the portion of the claim that you are responsible for paying, and it can vary depending on the insurance provider and the specific policy. By comparing different insurance options and reviewing the excess amounts, you can make an informed decision about the level of public liability cover that best suits your needs and budget.

Overall, public liability cover is a crucial aspect of insuring your electric bike. It provides financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you are covered in the event of accidental damage or injury to others while riding your e-bike. By understanding the terms and conditions of the policy, including coverage limits and excess amounts, you can choose the right level of public liability insurance to meet your specific needs.

E-bike insurance requirements

Electric bikes (e-bikes) are considered to be EAPCs (electrically assisted pedal cycles) if they have pedals and an electric motor of no more than 250 watts that cuts out once you’re travelling more than 15.5 mph. If your e-bike meets these requirements, you can ride it on the road or any cycle paths.

E-bike insurance is available from a variety of providers, including Direct Line Cycling Insurance, Compare the Market, and Bikmo. These policies typically cover theft, accidental or malicious damage, and public liability. Some providers also offer cover for e-bikes as part of home insurance policies, which can include theft, accidental damage, and vandalism.

When taking out e-bike insurance, it's important to ensure that your e-bike meets the requirements set by the insurance provider. For example, some providers only cover e-bikes that have been specifically manufactured as such, rather than retrofitted road or mountain bikes. Additionally, you may need to list your e-bike individually on your contents policy if it’s worth more than the amount of cover offered specifically for bikes.

It's also worth noting that e-bike insurance policies may vary depending on the discipline of riding, such as trails, park, gravel, or commuting. Therefore, it's essential to carefully review the terms and conditions of the policy to ensure that it meets your specific needs and requirements.

Specialist vs home insurance cover

Electric bikes (e-bikes) are classed as EAPCs (electrically assisted pedal cycles) if they have pedals and an electric motor of no more than 250 watts that cuts out when you're travelling more than 15.5 mph. If your e-bike meets these requirements, you can ride it anywhere a conventional bicycle can be used.

There are two main options for insuring your e-bike: specialist cover or home insurance. Specialist cover is available from companies such as Bikmo and Direct Line Cycling Insurance, and typically includes theft and accidental damage. Some policies also cover vandalism and public liability. With Direct Line Cycling Insurance, you only pay for what you need.

If you decide to insure your e-bike as part of your home insurance policy, you may need to list it individually on your contents policy if it's worth more than the amount of cover offered specifically for bikes. E-bike insurance through your home insurance policy could give you cover for theft, both from your home and when you're out, as well as accidental damage or vandalism.

It's important to consider your individual needs when deciding between specialist and home insurance cover for your e-bike. Specialist cover may offer more comprehensive protection, but it can also be more expensive. Home insurance cover may be more cost-effective, but it may not provide the same level of protection as specialist cover. It's also worth noting that some home insurance policies may not cover e-bikes at all, so it's important to check the terms and conditions carefully.

Frequently asked questions