While e-bikes were unaffordable for most people just a few years ago, these motorized bicycles have now become an integral part of the urban landscape. Bikes have now become part of mainstream society. However, they are not only popular means of transportation, but also valuable investments that deserve protection. Once you've fulfilled your dream of owning your own SUSHI BIKE, you naturally want to ensure your bike is optimally insured. E-bike insurance offers you financial protection against theft, accidents, and other damage. This allows you to cruise through the city on your SUSHI BIKE without worry.
Does e-bike insurance make sense?
Have you fulfilled your dream of owning your own e-bike and are wondering whether you even need to insure it? First, it's important to distinguish between different types of e-bikes: pedelecs and speed pedelecs.
- In the legal sense, pedelecs are bicycles with motorized assistance. The motor only engages when pedaling and automatically shuts off when the vehicle reaches 25 km/h. This type of e-bike is not subject to mandatory insurance. You can usually cover your pedelec with bicycle insurance.
- S-Pedelecs, however, must be insured because they are legally considered motor vehicles. They may only be operated with the required driver's license, vehicle documents, and a license plate. Accordingly, they also require motor vehicle liability insurance.
Since it's a simple pedelec, you're not obligated to insure your SUSHI BIKE. Whether you should do so depends on your individual situation. Most providers insure e-bikes with a purchase value of up to €15,000. However, there's no lower limit. It's often said that e-bikes should only be insured if they exceed a certain purchase price. But even if you've bought a relatively inexpensive e-bike, insurance is usually worthwhile. This is because the insurance covers damage and the costs incurred. Depending on the scope of coverage, theft of your bike is also covered. If you can't afford to buy another e-bike, you should urgently take out insurance for your bike.
How much does e-bike insurance cost?
E-bike insurance premiums vary depending on the scope of coverage and individual factors. Simple theft insurance can often be purchased inexpensively as a supplement to your existing home contents insurance. Otherwise, you can also cover your bike with traditional bicycle insurance. As a rough guide, you can expect annual premiums of around 3-5% of your e-bike's new value. As with any other insurance, it's worth comparing different insurance providers and their individual rates and specific terms and conditions. This way, you can find an insurance policy that meets both your protection needs and your budget.
Which insurance is suitable for me?
There are different types of e-bike insurance, each offering different levels of protection. The most common options are:
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Theft insurance:
This insurance is often added to your home contents insurance. It only covers the loss of your e-bike due to theft. If you have an accident or your bike is damaged in any other way, you will be responsible for the costs yourself.
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Partial comprehensive insurance:
This will protect you financially against damage caused by theft, fire, vandalism, storms, or hail. When choosing an insurance policy, pay particular attention to the specific benefits and exact coverage to choose the best option for you.
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Comprehensive insurance:
This insurance is a complete, worry-free package. It offers comprehensive protection against theft, accidents, and damage of any kind. As with partial comprehensive insurance, a deductible is usually due in the event of a claim.
What are the differences between e-bike insurance policies?
As with car insurance, e-bike insurance policies differ primarily in their coverage. You shouldn't just choose the first bike insurance policy you come across. Compare different providers and check whether their services and offerings meet your coverage needs. Occasionally, you can also snag discounts and special offers from some insurance providers. Especially as a trainee or student, you often have the opportunity to take advantage of an offer with reduced rates.
Is liability insurance required for e-bikes?
You must insure your e-bike with motor vehicle liability insurance if it meets the legal requirements for an S-Pedelec. These are e-bikes with pedal assistance up to 45 km/h. These e-bikes are equipped with insurance plates and must be insured with liability insurance. This is not necessary for e-bikes with lower speeds. However, private liability insurance is always recommended. Liability insurance for your e-bike only applies if you cause damage to other people or their property. This means that liability insurance does not cover your own damage to the e-bike.
Is liability insurance sufficient for an e-bike?
Whether liability insurance alone is sufficient depends on your individual security needs. If you want comprehensive protection against theft, vandalism, and personal damage, you should take out special e-bike insurance. This ensures you are financially protected in the event of damage to your e-bike.
