What is bicycle insurance?

Whether you’re a casual commuter or a keen rider who takes part in races and events, theft or damage to your bike can happen when you least expect it. But for just a few pounds a month, you can get protection for you and your bike.

Bicycle insurance is designed to protect you from the risks that come with cycling. It covers things like your bike being stolen or accidentally damaged, injuries to yourself, and even third-party liability if you injure someone else or their property while riding.

No matter how often you ride, the right bicycle insurance helps make sure you’re not left out of pocket if the unexpected happens.

Why arrange bicycle insurance?

Though bicycle insurance isn’t a legal must-have, it’s well worth considering. First, bikes are stolen in huge numbers. Office for National Statistics data shows there were 66,960 bicycle thefts reported during the 2023/24 period across England and Wales, with many more likely to go unreported.

Theft isn’t the only risk. Picture this: you’re in a crash and your bike’s wrecked - without the right insurance, that could mean a lot of hassle and an unexpected replacement bill.

It’s tempting to assume your home contents insurance has your back, but that’s not always the case. Some policies only protect your bike while it’s at home – say, kept safely in your garage – but not when you’re out on the road or it’s parked up outside work. Others might need you to pay extra to add it, but even then, the amount they’d pay out could be lower than you need, and the cover is likely to be basic.

And remember - home insurance excess (the amount of a claim you have to pay) can be as high as £500. So if your bike is stolen, you might get very little back. Plus, making a claim could push up your future home insurance costs.

Benefits of specialist bicycle insurance:

  • Cover for theft and accidental damage: Get your bike repaired or replaced.

  • Personal accident: Cover for injuries you sustain in an accident, plus legal cover.

  • Third-party liability: Protection if you accidentally injure someone or damage property.

  • Accessories cover: Helmets, lights and other kit included with some policies.

  • Ride anywhere: Cover extends beyond your home, so you’re protected on the road.

  • Race cover: Protects your bike if it’s damaged, stolen, or involved in an accident during a competition or event (available as an add-on with some policies).

What does bicycle insurance cover?

What’s included in your bicycle insurance can depend on the insurer and the level of cover you pick, but here’s an example of what one leading provider typically includes:

  • Theft and accidental damage: Keeps your bike and accessories protected.

  • Public liability: Covers you if you accidentally hurt someone or damage their property.

  • Personal accident cover: Helps with medical costs like hospital treatment, physiotherapy, or emergency dental care.

  • Loss of earnings: Support if an injury means you can’t work.

  • Replacement bike hire: Get a temporary bike while yours is being repaired or replaced.

  • Competitive use: Extends your cover if you’re taking part in a race or competition.

  • Race fees: Reimburses non-refundable entry fees if an accident stops you from riding.

  • Taxi costs: Covers the cost of getting home after an accident.

  • Multi-trip abroad: Optional cover if you’re cycling in Europe or further afield.

  • Multi-bike policy: Protects more than one bike under the same policy.

It’s important to remember that policies can vary widely, so it’s worth comparing different providers and levels of cover. That way you can make sure you’re getting the protection you need without paying for extras you don’t.

What does bicycle insurance not cover?

It’s just as important to know what your bicycle insurance doesn’t include, either as standard or at all. Here’s what one leading bicycle insurer won’t cover:

  • Unsecured bikes: If your bike isn’t locked or stored according to the policy’s minimum security requirements, theft may not be covered.

  • Business use: Using your bike for work purposes, like courier deliveries or carrying paying passengers, is usually excluded (commuting to and from work is generally fine).

  • Competitive events: Racing or competitive use is usually only included if you add this option to your policy.

  • Overseas riding: Cycling outside the UK isn’t normally covered unless you select European or worldwide optional cover.

Always check the policy details carefully to make sure you’re clear on what’s and isn’t included.

How much does bicycle insurance cost?

The cost of bicycle insurance can vary depending on your insurer, how much cover you choose, and even how and where you ride. Factors like the value of your bike, whether you commute or race, and how it’s stored can all affect the price.

To give you a rough idea, one leading provider offers personal protection starting from around £2.00 a month. This typically includes public liability, personal accident cover, and emergency medical or dental treatment. Spend a little more and from around £3.50 a month you can extend your policy to cover your bike too, with protection against theft (even from roof racks) and accidental damage.

At the top end, comprehensive cover starts from about £5.50 a month and includes all the benefits of the lower levels, plus extras like replacement cycle hire, taxi fare reimbursement if you’re stranded, triathlon transition cover, global travel cover, and race cover.

Whatever your budget, comparing policies can help you find the best fit for your bike and riding style.

Can I get cover for my e-bike?

Yes, bicycle insurance can cover a wide range of bikes, including electric bikes. Whether you’re commuting on an e-bike or hitting the trails on the weekend, you can get protection tailored to your ride.

For example, one leading provider typically covers both pedal and electric bikes, including:

  • Road bikes: Built for speed and smooth rides on tarmac.

  • Mountain bikes: Designed for off-road adventures.

  • BMX bikes: Perfect for tricks, jumps, and racing.

  • Commuter bikes: Ideal for everyday travel to and from work.

  • Hybrid and electric bikes: Great all-rounders that mix comfort and power.

It’s always worth checking the details of any policy to make sure your bike type and how you use it are fully covered.

Answering your questions about bicycle insurance

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