If you cycle often, competitively, or your bike is high-value, you may want to consider getting it insured. Without a cycle insurance policy, you may not receive any compensation if your bike is damaged beyond repair or stolen, and replacing it can be quite financially detrimental. With cycle insurance, you don’t need to worry.
In this guide, we will explore the multiple benefits of cycle insurance, why it is important and whether you qualify for a quote.
Depending on a range of factors, getting cycle insurance can save you money and give you peace of mind, especially if your bike is worth a lot. Cycle insurance could protect you from theft or damage. It is much more cost-effective to insure a bike that is frequently used or high in value, and it can provide more benefits than if it were placed on your home or travel insurance.
Home insurance policies will not cover the bike if it is stolen or damaged away from your property, whereas cycle insurance can be tailored to your preferences.
Who Should Get Cycle Insurance?
Who May Not Benefit From Cycle Insurance?
Decide for yourself whether cycle insurance is worth it with our expert guide here.
It is important to choose the right policy for you to ensure you get your time and money’s worth. Each basic plan from ALA includes:
● Comprehensive bike theft cover: protects against theft or attempted theft, both at home and away, provided security requirements are met.
● Accidental and malicious damage cover: cover against accidental damage or vandalism.
● Repair or replacement cover: up to your insured value.
● Flexible payment options: pay annually or monthly by subscription.
● Wide range of cycles: including standard bikes, electric bikes (within legal limits), tandems and more.
● High-value cover: up to £15,000 in value.
Optional add-ons include public liability, worldwide cover (up to 90 days), cycling accessories (such as helmets, clothing, or GPS devices), personal accident, and replacement cycle hire.
If you’re interested in our cycle insurance, request a bespoke quote or speak to a member of the ALA team for more information.
Although cycle insurance is not a legal requirement, it is highly recommended for avid cyclists and those living in areas where the risk of theft or damage is higher. There are different plans available for various types of bikes or circumstances, allowing you to choose the very best policy for you.
Some may choose to take their bike abroad to get some exercise whilst on holiday, to save on travel costs, or to travel solely for the purpose of touring on a bicycle. Touring bikes are durable and sturdy, but they can still be damaged in an accident, and a travel insurance policy may not cover that damage. Therefore, it is better to protect yourself and your bike so you can cover the cost of a new bike or have it replaced, whether that is new-for-old or like-for-like.
BMXs and mountain bikes are often ridden on bumpy, rough terrain and are susceptible to damage. Taking out insurance is a smart option, and comes with all the benefits of a standard policy, including protection against theft and damage, with worldwide coverage.
For more information, read our expert guide on whether you need cycle insurance here, including the different specialist policies available.
To obtain a cycle insurance quote, certain eligibility criteria must be met. Before applying, check your bike’s frame number, usually located under the bottom bracket. Other policy requirements include:
● You are a UK resident
● Your bike is worth less than £15,000
● Your bike is in good working order
● You can provide proof of purchase (such as a receipt or evidence of insurance replacement)
Read our expert guide to cycle insurance eligibility and restrictions for more information.
At ALA, we also require that you own a good, working lock and that your bike be stored in a secure location. You must be able to provide evidence of your bike secured with either a gold- or diamond-standard Sold Secure lock within 14 days of purchasing a policy. Leaving your bike outdoors or locking it using faulty equipment may result in a failed claim.
If you believe that you and your bike meet the criteria above, your claim should be successful. However, you can discuss any reservations or queries with a member of our team.
Here at ALA, our cycle insurance policies cover damage and theft, plus plenty of extras to give you peace of mind. Our cycle insurance is not limited to standard bicycles. Instead, we provide specialist cover for different types, including electric bikes, BMXs, mountain bikes and touring bikes – both in the UK and abroad, with optional worldwide protection.
Additional cover options include public liability protection against damage to someone else’s property or injuries to another person, cycling accessories, and cycle breakdown assistance.
Interested in protecting your bicycle? Contact us today to request a quote or create your own one online here.
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