Insurance for electric bicycles, are they worth it?

The rise of electric vehicles has given way to the popularization of bicycles that implement this technology. In this regard, new solutions have been proposed for the unforeseen events that your drivers may face. As a result, insurance for electric bicycles is becoming more and more common. But are they worth it? In this article we examine their characteristics in order to give an accurate answer to this question.

Insurance for electric bicycles: mandatory or voluntary?

Nowadays, this type of policy is not mandatory in our country. In fact, there is not even a minimum basic package, as is the case with other vehicles. However, you should pay attention to this aspect, as everything points to the situation changing in the future.

Last year, the European Parliament considered that it was not necessary to impose such a regulation. According to the institution, this measure would not serve to improve the safety of cyclists on the road. Therefore, models that comply with the legal limits do not have to be compulsorily insured for the time being.

But what about those that exceed the strict definition? Pedelecs, for example, have a power of more than 250 w and a pedaling speed exceeding 25 km/h. In this case, they do not conform to the strict interpretation for this category of vehicle, so they must be insured.

What does an electric bicycle insurance cover?

Defining insurance coverages is not easy, as it all depends on the policy. However, we can take a closer look at the most frequent criteria to determine the extent of customer protection. The key is to choose a modality that is complete and avoid surprises.

Liability

Liability insurances usually cover damages caused by the use of this product. For example, breakage of street furniture or private equipment due to an accident. In general, circumstances that affect third parties and are due to the normal use of the vehicle are covered.

Legal defense

As a result of an accident, you may find yourself in need of legal defense. It should also not be forgotten that the legal terrain in which this transport moves can be somewhat uncertain. For this reason, the laws of the road still have several unresolved aspects regarding this means of transport.

Travel assistance

This is one of the most basic coverages, especially if you are a cyclist with a certain track record. During long trips, you may have an accident or vehicle breakdown. As a consequence, this clause includes their transfer to a workshop and, obviously, yours.

Claims

If the bicycle is total loss due to an accident, the rider receives compensation. This will be calculated on the total amount stated in the policy and always taking into account that it has become irreparable. With this capital, it is usually enough for you to acquire a new one, so it is an important help.

Repairs and replacements

Likewise, they cover damages caused by an accident in case your bike is not damaged. For this purpose, they cover the cost of the repair, regardless of its condition or technical requirements. Replacement of parts, including electronics, is also envisaged.

Thefts

Theft while in storage is also a circumstance that is often covered. The most common way to do this is to determine where it is stored during work or when it remains in the home. However, it is vital that you prove that it was well protected, for example, with a padlock.

Hospitalization or death

If you need to be hospitalized after an accident, the insurance covers hospitalization. Obviously, in Spain we have Social Security, so it is only contemplated abroad. In turn, this includes compensation for your relatives if this circumstance has had fatal consequences.

Rescue costs

This question is fundamental if you have a mountain bike, although it is relevant for all of them. The costs associated with a redemption are contemplated, taking into account that the State may require the payment of these costs in certain circumstances. For this reason, the policy usually includes a maximum limit associated with the technical requirements of the salvage.

So, are they worth it or not?

After having analyzed the most frequent coverages, we can affirm that an electric bicycle insurance is a good investment. The aim is to gain peace of mind and avoid disproportionate financial outlays. To support our recommendation, we will show you some of the advantages of these policies.

International coverage

Many cyclists make international crossings, especially to France and Portugal. However, the conditions in the event of an accident outside our territory are different. It all depends on the type of insurance you take out, but they usually include protection throughout the continent.

Also for converted bicycles

If you have converted your conventional bicycle to electric, there are companies that have specific policies. In these situations, the value of the vehicle is calculated based on the normal vehicle and the parts you have purchased. The coverages are usually the same, although with a special conception for the case in question.

For any unforeseen event

An urban electric bicycle has a high value, as do its parts. As a result, they are exposed to theft, robbery or even mugging, as well as situations that, as a driver, you cannot always avoid. Insurance is generally liable to compensate with a capital sum equivalent to its market price.

Avoid frequent conflicts

Having an accident on an electric bike can be more trouble than you think. You will be obliged to pay the medical expenses of the affected persons (if any), as well as to repair your entire vehicle. Insurance policies, even in their most basic policies, usually include all these circumstances.

In short, insurance for electric bicycles is a highly recommended option. These policies are vital to guarantee the necessary peace of mind while driving, especially in these times. In BICICICLASICA we invite you to know our selection of electric bikes. Discover them!

The major insurance brands offer specific products for bicycles.

Many insurers offer specific products for electric bicycles (and other types of bicycles as well), for example:

Zurich Klinc is an insurance that covers civil liability, legal protection and optionally accidental damage and theft. Valid for any type of bicycle, urban, mountain, road or eBike.

Axa Biciflexible offers you coverage for personal accidents, civil liability, theft and damage to the bicycle and assistance anywhere in Europe.

Mapfre BiciMás is an insurance for bicycles with travel assistance and coverage of location and rescue expenses in case of disappearance or if you find yourself in danger throughout Spain. Valid for all models (mountain, road, urban, electric, etc…) and all brands.

RACC Bici offers full protection when you ride your bike, with mechanical and medical assistance.
and liability insurance up to 150,000 €.