Why and how to insure your electric bike?

Electric bicycles are gaining popularity in France, in particular because they provide an ecological transport solution that replaces the car or public transport in the city.

However, given their often high price and cutting-edge technology, electric bike insurance becomes essential. Although some models come with advanced security features, you are never completely safe from theft, whether burglary or burglary, damage or vandalism. Why is it crucial to insure your electric bike? What risks are covered and how to choose the right insurance? How much does electric bike insurance cost? Here are the answers from our experts!

French legislation on electric bicycle insurance

French legislation on electric bicycle insurance is relatively simple, but it still has important nuances depending on the type of bicycle and its technical characteristics. Knowing how to insure yourself when riding a bike is therefore very important.

For electrically assisted bicycles (VAE) whose motor power does not exceed 250 watts and whose electrical assistance is limited to 25 km/h, insurance is not compulsory, even if it is strongly recommended to take out civil 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, knowing that it can be included in your home insurance.

For other electric bikes whose power exceeds 250 watts or which can reach speeds above 25 km/h, civil liability insurance becomes compulsory . These bicycles are considered mopeds , which also involves additional obligations such as bicycle registration and wearing a helmet.

In the event of an accident, not being insured can have serious financial consequences. For example, you will have to personally cover the costs related to damage caused to others. To avoid this, taking out civil liability insurance is an essential precaution, even when it is not a strict legal obligation!

Why consider insurance for your electric bike?

Insuring your electric bike is a wise decision, even if the law does not always require it. Here's why :

• Theft protection : E-bikes, often expensive and attractive, are frequent targets for thieves. Theft insurance allows you to recover all or part of the value of your bicycle in the event of its disappearance (theft of electric bicycle batteries is also very widespread);
• Damage coverage : An accident can happen at any time, whether it is a fall, a collision or acts of vandalism. However, repairs to an electric bike can be expensive due to the on-board technology. Damage insurance covers these costs, which saves you from unforeseen 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 responsible and have to pay compensation. Liability insurance covers these costs, protecting you against potentially very high costs. Without this coverage, you will have to financially assume all repairs and compensation out of your own pocket.

Electric bike insurance against theft

Electric bikes are a significant investment, with prices often between €1,000 and €5,000, or even more for high-end models. However, losing such an investment without the possibility of compensation can represent a significant financial loss.

The whole point of theft insurance lies precisely in 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 bicycles, especially in urban areas where bicycle thefts are common. Taking out theft insurance gives you much-needed peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected against these risks.

Therefore, in the event of theft, the steps to recover an electric bike can be long and expensive. Theft insurance here allows you to benefit from rapid compensation , making it easier to purchase a new bike, and some insurance policies also include cover for expensive accessories , such as batteries and navigation systems, which are often targeted. during flights.

Let's imagine that your electric bike worth €3,000 is stolen. Without insurance, you lose this amount and have to pay out new money to buy another bike. With insurance, however, you will receive compensation covering all or part of this value, which will allow you to quickly replace your bike without affecting your budget!

Insurance for damages and civil liability

When an accident involves third parties , such as pedestrians, other cyclists or vehicles, costs can quickly add up. If you cause personal injury or property damage, then you could be held responsible and have to pay significant compensation. Civil liability insurance covers these costs, and sometimes includes a legal protection guarantee intended to cover your possible procedural costs against third parties.

Knowing that you are covered in the event of damage or an at-fault accident allows you to fully enjoy your electric bike without fearing 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 coverage 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 disaster;
• optional guarantees , such as assistance in the event of breakdown or puncture, and coverage of accessories;
• the price , for which it is essential to compare the prices and conditions of the different offers to find the best quality-price ratio.

Cost of electric bike insurance

The cost of insurance for an electric bike generally ranges between €150 and €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 location of parking : areas with a high risk of theft are associated with higher premiums.

Documents needed to insure an electric bike

To take out electric bike insurance, several documents are generally required. Here is a list of necessary papers:

• 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;
• Photos of the bike : 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 certain insurers to facilitate identification in the event of theft;
• Registration certificate (if applicable): For powerful electric bikes (over 250W or speeds above 25 km/h), a registration certificate may be necessary;
• Home insurance details (if applicable): If you are integrating bike insurance into your home insurance policy, provide the contract information.

Examples of electric bike insurance

Insurer	Benefits	Guarantees
AXA	24/7 support Reimbursement as new	Theft, accidental damage, civil liability
Allianz	Large network of partners	Theft, vandalism, accidents, assistance
MAIF	Member Discount	Theft, property damage, legal protection, bodily injury, rental assistance
Allianz	Great global reputation, recognized expertise, intuitive platform	Damage, theft, vandalism
Sharelock	Unique collaborative model with high interest for members, competitive pricing, reimbursement within 48 hours	breakage, theft with assault or break-in, expenses linked to the rental of a bicycle
Laka	Worldwide coverage Variable monthly premium calculated according to claims, without engagement	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	Personalized pricing based on usage, intuitive and user-friendly platform	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,
• the embezzlement or fraud of the insured,
• damage caused intentionally,
• lack of maintenance.

FAQs

Is it compulsory to have insurance for an electric bike?

No, insurance for an electric bike is not always compulsory! However, if your bike exceeds 250W or a speed of 25 km/h, liability insurance is required. Even if it is not a legal obligation, it is still strongly recommended to take out insurance to cover theft, damage and civil liability (i.e. damage that you could cause to third parties).

Battery theft is particularly common on electric bikes, so don't hesitate to take out insurance!

How much does electric bike insurance cost?

The cost of insurance for an electric bike generally varies between €150 and €300 per year! This rate depends on several factors, including the value of the bike, the type of coverage chosen and additional options such as breakdown assistance.

What paper to insure an electric bike?

To insure an electric bike, you will need to provide proof of purchase of the bike, an identity document, proof of address, or even photos of the bike. If your bike requires registration, you will also need to provide the registration certificate!