No matter what type of bicycle you own, whether you use it for commuting, leisure or both, you may be eligible for cycle insurance. Bikes that are more prone to damage due to their excessive use could benefit from a full-coverage cycle insurance policy, ensuring that any repairs are paid for. With so many various bikes available, do they all have to meet the same criteria to qualify?
In this guide, we will explore the different types of bikes that can qualify for a cycle insurance policy, and why you should choose ALA today.
It is possible to insure a BMX, as long as you are able to provide a frame number and proof of purchase; this is required for all ALA cycle insurance policies , no matter the type of bike. The BMX must be in good working condition and be worth less than £6000. The BMX will be protected against theft and malicious or accidental damage , even if the theft or damage occurs in another country. The bike will also be replaced on a new-for-old or like-for-like basis, depending on how old it is.
BMX bikes are often used in sporting competitions and races; if your bike is used for this purpose, whether it be amateur or professional, you will not be able to acquire a cycle insurance policy through ALA. However, if you use your BMX for leisure purposes, such as performing stunts that are not executed in a professional capacity, you will be able to make a claim on your cycle insurance if your bike is damaged. If you make a damage claim, the BMX will be examined to see what caused it.
To find out more about BMX insurance, please read our previous guide here.
As the cost-of-living crisis takes effect across the country, many people are looking for new ways to save money. Cycling to work rather than driving can not only cut down on fuel prices and save the stress of finding somewhere to park, but it is also better for the environment too. If you have decided to start commuting to work on your bike, cycle insurance is a great way to protect yourself and your bike.
When commuting on your bike, you are more susceptible to accidents and collisions with drivers, which can not only injure you, but can severely damage your bike. Also, you may need to leave your bike outside while you work, which can increase your chance of it being stolen. With cycle insurance, you can ensure that your bike is covered from damage or theft, giving you peace of mind. However, your bike must be secured by an approved lock for your claim to be accepted.
To find out more about commuting cycle insurance, please read our previous guide here.
Like non-electric bicycles, electric bikes (or e-bikes) are exempt from the insurance requirements that apply to cars and motorcycles, but they should comply with certain speed and power regulations. E-bikes are much heavier than normal bikes and are more expensive; cycle insurance can help you repair your electric bike should you encounter damage, and will help replace your bike on a like-for-like or new-for-old basis if it is stolen.
Like all cycle insurance policies, you have the option to add extra policies to your regular cycle insurance policy. For example, public liability protects you should you injure someone else or damage their property whilst out on the electric bike, and you can even protect your cycling accessories, such as your helmet or lights.
To find out more about cycle insurance for e-bikes, you can explore our previous guide here.
Like BMXs, mountain bikes are more likely to experience damage than regular bikes; they are constantly being ridden on rough terrain, which can damage the wheels and the chain. You can tailor your mountain bike policy to suit you by adding optional extras such as personal accident and legal expenses cover. This way, you are protected in every eventuality should your bike be damaged or stolen.
If you travel abroad with your mountain bike, you will be covered worldwide as standard in an ALA cycle insurance policy. The insurance will also be completely dedicated to your bike, unlike home contents insurance, where it may not be comprehensively covered.
You can find out more about mountain bike insurance in our previous guide here.
You can create a cycle insurance policy for your road bike, providing it is not used in any professional tournaments or races. Cycling on the road, particularly in the countryside, can be an exhilarating experience, but it can leave you vulnerable to accidents. With cycle insurance, if the worst should happen when you’re on the road, you can rest easy knowing you’ll be covered.
In order to qualify for a road bike insurance policy, your bike must not exceed £6000 in value, and you must be able to provide a frame number and proof of purchase from a cycle retailer. Your cycle insurer also won’t pay out if the damage sustained on the bike is caused by a manufacturing fault, or if it is the result of general wear and tear over time.
To find out more about road cycling insurance and possible restrictions, you can read our previous guide here.
If you use your bike to travel long distances, such as city to city or even across the border, and you don’t return to the same place on your route, this is known as tour cycling. It is similar to a cycling holiday, but you don’t stay in one place for an extended period of time when touring. Due to constantly being on the road, you are more likely to encounter accidents, damage and even theft.
ALA cycling insurance cover is perfect for touring bikes, as the policy covers you worldwide as standard for up to 30 days. This way, if your bike is damaged or stolen away from the UK, Isle of Man or the Channel Islands, you will still be covered. This global coverage also protects any extra policies you may take on, such as public liability and accessory cover.
To discover more about touring cycle insurance, please refer to our previous guide here.
Here at ALA, all of our cycle insurance policies can protect you from theft and accidental or malicious damage to your cycle anywhere in the world. You can even add multiple bikes to one policy to ensure your family or friends are protected also. To see how our policies could benefit you, please get in touch with us today via our online form.
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