There are numerous reasons why people choose cycling over using a car or public transport, including health, economic and/or environmental reasons. Cycling has become increasingly popular since the Covid-19 pandemic and since the introduction of the cycle to work scheme. Should you decide to trade in your car for a bike for everyday travel, there are certain things you need to consider, the first being Cycle insurance.
In the UK, a bicycle theft occurs every 2 minutes and it’s a common misconception that bicycles are covered under home insurance or contents insurance. Also, if your bike was stolen or damaged away from the property, your insurance provider will not pay out.
Furthermore. despite the growing benefit of ‘safety in numbers’ cyclists remain among the most vulnerable road users. In this article, we cover everything you need to know about bicycle insurance in the UK and whether you need it for your cycling activities. We will also cover which ALA insurance policy, and which cover option is best for you.
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While it is not a legal requirement to have bicycle insurance in the UK, there are many reasons why it is recommended especially on busy or rural roads. Cyclists are among the most vulnerable road users as the risk of serious injury is much higher in the event of a collision. Although the Cycle to work scheme has helped many people improve their health, save money and reduce their carbon footprint, commuters are particularly vulnerable on the road, since cyclist casualties occur mostly at rush hour and the third most common reason for serious cyclists injuries is being in a rush.
Not to mention, the worst locations for bike theft are in large, wealthy cities, which tend to attract professionals. If you rely on your bicycle for commuting to work and you cannot use it due to accidental damage, vandalism or theft, you will need a replacement bicycle and the cost of a hire or replacement cycle could be high. Bicycle Insurance is especially important for electric bikes which can be a bigger investment and you may be travelling at a greater speed, increasing the risk of injury.
Also, as a result of the high casualty rate there may be a circumstance in which you need legal assistance, public liability insurance, or a payout in the event of severe injury or death; this cover can now be offered by ALA Cycle insurance.
An example Cycle insurance plan* for an average commuter bike worth £700 bike would look like the following:
*with £150 excess cover
City cyclists are vulnerable but rural roads are scarcely safer. Cyclists are at the greatest risk of serious or fatal injury, as well as accidental damage to bikes when cycling on a rural roads. There’s also a higher risk of becoming stranded on rural roads which is especially dangerous in winter months. If you regularly cycle on rural roads, you should make sure you are insured to cover the cost of your bike, your accessories and also to cover yourself as a cyclist.
An example Cycle insurance plan* for a road bike worth £1,000 bike would look like the following:
When on certain holidays, it may be necessary or beneficial to take along your bike to get some exercise, save on travel costs when you arrive, or you may have travelled for the sole purpose of cycling. If you are cautious, you may have cycling travel insurance but even this may not be able to cover your bike for every eventuality overseas. Make sure to check that your travel insurance covers all your needs when travelling with a bike abroad.
ALA now offers worldwide cover as part of their standard plan, meaning that you can be covered if you travel outside of the UK for less than 30 consecutive days.
An example Cycle insurance plan* for a road bike worth £1,000 bike would look like the following:
Biking along your favourite trail, or in your local park may put you at extra risk of accidental damage to your bike or personal injury. It’s advisable to protect yourself with adequate insurance. ALA can offer theft and damage cover and worldwide cover, which is useful if you intend to travel with your bike.
An example Cycle insurance plan* for a stunt bike worth £1,000 bike would look like the following:
Here at ALA we make it our mission to provide flexible cover that fits each cyclist’s needs. Whether you’re a committed cycling commuter, you cycle recreationally or you travel with your bike, we have the ideal bike cover package for you. We don’t just cover pedal bikes, we cover electric bikes and BMXs as well.
We understand that an expensive bike such as an electric bike, road bike or a BMX can put a financial strain on the owner should the worst happen. Even if you are not a frequent cyclist, our plans start at just £21 per year and they rarely exceed the cost of popular streaming service subscriptions, even for comprehensive cover. So, whether or not you decide today that you need bicycle insurance, ALA’s competitive prices mean that there will always be bicycle cover that is right for you. Get a Cycle insurance quote today.
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