Why and how to insure your electric bike?
Electric bikes are gaining popularity in France, particularly because they provide an eco-friendly transportation solution that replaces cars or public transport in cities.
However, given their often high price and cutting-edge technology, insuring e-bikes becomes essential. Although some models are equipped with advanced security features, you are never completely safe from theft, whether with or without break-ins, damage, or vandalism. Why is it crucial to insure your e-bike? What risks are covered, and how do you choose the right insurance? How much does e-bike insurance cost? Here are our experts' answers!
French legislation on electric bicycle insurance
French legislation on electric bike insurance is relatively straightforward, but it still includes significant nuances depending on the type of bike and its technical characteristics. Knowing how to insure yourself when riding a bike is therefore very important.
For electrically assisted bicycles (EABs) with a motor power not exceeding 250 watts and with electric assistance limited to 25 km/h, insurance is not mandatory, although it is strongly recommended to take out third-party liability insurance (this is the case for the Anod Hybrid ). This protects you in the event of damage caused to third parties during an accident, and can be included in your home insurance.
For other electric bikes with a power output exceeding 250 watts or capable of speeds exceeding 25 km/h, liability insurance becomes mandatory . These bikes are considered mopeds , which also entails additional obligations such as bike registration and helmet use.
In the event of an accident, not being insured can lead to serious financial consequences. For example, you may have to personally cover the costs of damage caused to others. To avoid this, taking out liability insurance is an essential precaution, even when it's not a strict legal requirement!
To learn more about the legislation surrounding electric bikes, you can consult our articles on the subject.
Why consider insurance for your electric bike?
Insuring your electric bike is a smart decision, even if it's not always required by law. Here's why:
- Theft Protection : Electric bikes, often expensive and attractive, are common targets for thieves. Theft insurance allows you to recover all or part of the value of your bike in the event of its disappearance (theft of electric bike batteries is also very common);
- Damage Coverage : An accident can happen at any time, whether it's a fall, a collision, or vandalism. However, repairs to an electric bike can be expensive due to the onboard technology. Damage insurance covers these costs, saving you from unexpected and often very significant expenses.
- Civil liability : In the event of an accident where you cause damage to others (pedestrians, other cyclists, vehicles), you may be held liable and have to pay compensation. Civil liability insurance covers these costs, protecting you against potentially very high costs. Without this coverage, you will have to financially bear all repairs and compensation out of your own pocket.
Electric bike insurance against theft
Electric bikes are a significant investment, with prices often ranging from €1,000 to €5,000, or even more for high-end models. Losing such an investment without the possibility of compensation can represent a significant financial loss.
The whole point of theft insurance is precisely the possibility of obtaining reimbursement or replacement of your bike in the event of theft.
Electric bikes remain prime targets for theft . They are much more likely to be stolen than traditional bikes, especially in urban areas where bike theft is common. Taking out theft insurance gives you much-needed peace of mind, knowing your investment is protected against these risks.
Therefore, in the event of theft, the process of recovering an electric bike can be long and costly. Theft insurance allows you to benefit from rapid compensation , facilitating the purchase of a new bike, and some insurance policies also include coverage for expensive accessories , such as batteries and navigation systems, which are often targeted during thefts.
Let's say your €3,000 electric bike is stolen. Without insurance, you lose that amount and have to pay for a new one. With insurance, however, you'll receive compensation covering all or part of that value, allowing you to quickly replace your bike without affecting your budget!
Damage and liability insurance
When an accident involves third parties , such as pedestrians, other cyclists, or vehicles, costs can quickly escalate. If you cause bodily injury or property damage, you could be held liable and have to pay significant compensation. Liability insurance covers these costs and sometimes includes legal protection coverage to cover any legal costs you may face in a lawsuit against third parties.
Knowing that you're covered in the event of damage or an at-fault accident allows you to fully enjoy your electric bike without worrying about the financial consequences of an accident. This financial security is all the more important in a context where road accidents involving bicycles are on the rise!
How to choose the best insurance for your electric bike?
To choose the best insurance for your electric bike , you can pay attention to certain criteria such as:
- the guarantees offered , in particular against theft, damage, and civil liability (the cover must correspond to your specific needs and the risks to which you are exposed);
- the excess applicable in the event of a claim;
- compensation ceilings, in particular to avoid unpleasant surprises in the event of a claim;
- optional warranties , such as breakdown or puncture assistance, and accessory coverage;
- the price , for which it is essential to compare the rates and conditions of the different offers to find the best value for money.
Cost of electric bike insurance
The cost of insurance for an electric bike typically ranges from €150 to €300 per year , depending on several key factors:
- the value of the electric bike : the more expensive the bike, the higher the insurance premium will be;
- the type of coverage chosen : insurance covering theft, damage and civil liability will be more expensive than basic coverage;
- bicycle use : daily use, urban journeys, long distances;
the parking location : high theft risk areas are associated with higher premiums.
Documents needed to insure an electric bike
To purchase electric bike insurance, several documents are generally required. Here is a list of the necessary documents:
- Proof of purchase of the bicycle : Invoice or receipt of purchase indicating the date, price and characteristics of the bicycle;
- Personal information : Identity card or passport to prove your identity;
- Proof of address : Recent utility bill (electricity, water, etc.) or rent receipt to confirm your address;
- Bike Photos : Clear images of the bike, including serial numbers, to prove the condition and existence of the bike at the time of subscription;
- Marking certificate : Document proving that the bicycle is engraved with a unique number, a requirement for some insurers to facilitate identification in the event of theft;
- Registration certificate (if applicable): For powerful electric bikes (over 250W or speed above 25 km/h), a registration certificate may be required;
- Home Insurance Details (if applicable): If you include bicycle insurance in your home insurance policy, provide the details from that policy.
Examples of electric bike insurance
|
Insurer |
Benefits |
Guarantees |
|
AXA |
24/7 Support |
Theft, accidental damage, civil liability |
|
Allianz |
Large network of partners |
Theft, vandalism, accidents, assistance |
|
MAIF |
Member discount |
Theft, property damage, legal protection, personal injury, rental assistance |
|
Allianz |
Great global reputation, recognized expertise, |
Damage, theft, vandalism |
|
Sharelock |
Unique collaborative model of great interest to members, competitive pricing, reimbursement within 48 hours |
breakage, theft with assault or burglary, expenses related to renting a bicycle |
|
Laka |
Worldwide coverage |
theft, damage, breakage, loss by a third party |
|
Bicytrust |
Replacement and repair to new for 3 years |
Theft and breakage |
|
Qivio |
Efficient claims management, reimbursement within 72 hours |
Night flight and outdoor flight covered |
|
Ulygo |
Custom pricing based on usage, |
Guarantees valid worldwide |
Generally, the exclusions of guarantees are quite similar from one insurer to another, and may concern:
- normal wear and tear,
- participation in competitions,
- professional use of the bicycle,
- embezzlement or fraud by the insured,
- damage caused intentionally,
- lack of maintenance.
In addition to all these protections and insurances, we recommend that you protect yourself against theft of your bike. You can find out more in our guide to choosing an electric bike lock .
FAQ
Is it mandatory to have insurance for an electric bike?
No, insurance for an e-bike is not always mandatory! However, if your bike exceeds 250W or a speed of 25 km/h, liability insurance is required. Although it is not a legal requirement, it is still strongly recommended to take out insurance to cover theft, damage, and third-party liability (i.e., damage you may cause to third parties).
Battery thefts are particularly common on electric bikes, so don't hesitate to get insurance!
How much does electric bike insurance cost?
The cost of insurance for an electric bike typically ranges from €150 to €300 per year! This price depends on several factors, including the value of the bike, the type of coverage chosen, and additional options such as breakdown assistance.
What documents do I need to insure an electric bike?
To insure an electric bike, you'll need to provide proof of purchase, ID, proof of address, and even photos of the bike. If your bike requires registration, you'll also need to provide the registration certificate!
