The use of electric bikes is increasing daily. Consequently, the risks of accidents, theft, and damage are rising! Therefore, insurance companies (and lawmakers) must adapt accordingly. Depending on the type of electric bike you own, insurance might be required. Are you certain you have adequate coverage?
Legally, there are two categories of electric bikes. Conventional electric bikes are typically limited to 15 mph and are treated similarly to regular bicycles. Speedbikes, capable of reaching 28 mph, are classified as mopeds. Is electric bike insurance mandatory?
Standard Electric Bike Insurance (15 mph)
Luko Insurance
A clear contract, 2x faster reimbursements, a 100% digital and transparent model.
Included in Luko home insurance: bicycle theft and vandalism, reimbursement of damage caused to a third party in the event of a bicycle accident.
Home insurance provides coverage for liability in case of an at-fault accident involving your electric bike. I found the best-priced coverage at Luko. Keep in mind that speed alone does not solely determine your bike’s classification under the law. Many cyclists mistakenly conflate assistance with propulsion, which can have significant financial consequences!
Here’s what you need to know to avoid misunderstandings. For an electric bike to be considered a basic electrically assisted bicycle, it must meet these three conditions:
- Electric assistance activates ONLY when the rider pedals.
- This assistance ceases when the bike reaches 15 mph.
- The motor power does NOT exceed 250 Watts.
If any of these three conditions are not met by your electric bike, it is no longer legally classified as a bicycle but as a moped.
What Is the Cost of an Electric Bike Insurance? (15 mph)
Luko Insurance
A clear contract, 2x faster reimbursements, a 100% digital and transparent model.
Included in Luko home insurance: bicycle theft and vandalism, reimbursement of damage caused to a third party in the event of a bicycle accident.
The cost varies based on the bike’s purchase value and usage location. Insurers will request this information before providing a quote. Thankfully, the process is automated, making online electric bike insurance quick and easy.
It’s important to note that insuring an electrically-assisted bicycle is optional but strongly recommended. Verify with your current insurer whether your homeowner’s policy provides coverage, especially in scenarios like accidents involving your electric bike. Indeed, most insurers do not cover unapproved electrically-assisted bicycles. Ensure you’re informed before making a purchase!
Additionally, consider these three essential types of coverage:
- Coverage against theft
- Protection for damage to your electric bike, such as from accidents or falls.
- Yourself! With the Personal Accident Insurance.
Moped Insurance (28 mph)
Insurance is mandatory for this type of electric bike. You’ll need to purchase moped insurance. Contact a motorcycle/scooter insurer for more information. Apart from moped insurance, additional obligations are required for your peace of mind:
- Vehicle registration
- Helmet usage
What Is the Cost of Moped Insurance? (28 mph)
A growing number of electric bicycles, surpassing homologation standards in speed or power, are classified as mopeds. The minimum required insurance coverage for mopeds is Third-Party Liability. This coverage includes damages caused to third parties when the insured party is at fault.
Here are examples of available insurance types to assist in finding the best deal for your moped:
| Coverage | FORMULA 1 | FORMULA 1+ | FORMULA 2 | FORMULA 2+ |
| Liability Coverage | X | X | X | X |
| Legal Defense | X | X | X | X |
| Theft Coverage | X | X | ||
| Fire Coverage | X | X | ||
| Acts of Nature | X | X | ||
| Natural Disasters Coverage | X | X | ||
| Rider’s Warranty | X | X | ||
| Annual Premium | $150 | $230 | $285 | $360 |
If you’ve purchased theft insurance for your electric bike, consider the following information.
Rules to Follow for Electric Bike Theft Insurance
Besides acquiring theft insurance, here are measures to safeguard against theft and potential reimbursement issues:
- Invest in a high-quality lock—such as a U-shaped lock (as recommended in our electric bike lock guide)—and pair it with a fixed rear wheel lock for maximum security against theft.
- Securely attach your bike to a sturdy fixed point, like a robust post.
Report Your Electric Bike Theft to Your Insurer Promptly for Reimbursement
In the unfortunate event of bike theft (with or without confrontation), take the following steps to claim insurance coverage:
- Report the incident to law enforcement.
- File your claim with your insurer, including a detailed complaint.
- Provide your insurer with the bike’s brand, value, and an invoice.
- Include a photo of the broken lock and its purchase receipt.
- Adhere to any additional measures requested by your insurer.
Certification and Standards
Another important safety measure on the road: ensure your bike is homologated to prevent unexpected issues. Sellers are responsible for informing buyers about the bike’s homologation status.
Review the Guidelines
According to a recent CPA (Consumer Protection Agency) survey, while professionals generally possess good knowledge of regulations and offer sound advice to consumers during purchases, some anomalies have been identified. Out of 11 sampled items, 9 were deemed non-compliant, with three identified as dangerous.
Here are the safety requirements that an electric bike must meet:
- Motors must comply with electromagnetic compatibility standards (Norms and regulations established by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)).
- Charger safety must adhere to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for electrical and electronic equipment, as well as by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on highways.
Helmet Standards
Helmets must also meet specific standards. Your helmet must bear the CE marking. While wearing a helmet when biking is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended for safety reasons.
However, wearing a helmet is mandatory when riding a moped (Depending on the State you live in). Bicycle helmets must comply with the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) standards, while moped helmets must be DOT (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218, FMVSS 218) approved.
Regulations for Riding a Speedbike
Speedbikes exhibit similar characteristics to bicycles as they are marketed as electric bikes, but they are no longer categorized as such under the law. The distinctions between electric bikes and mopeds were outlined earlier in this article.
We’ve covered insurance and compliance requirements. What about permissions for operating an electric bike that exceeds 15 mph? To clarify: if you dismount from an electric bike that exceeds 15 mph, it changes its legal category.
Who Is Permitted to Ride These High-Speed Electric Bikes?
Cyclists born after January 1, 1988, must hold an M licence or a D licence with a special authorization. The minimum age requirement is 14 or 16, depending on the State you live in.
Specific Regulations
Note that you are classified as a scooter:
- Prohibited from using cycle paths
- Mandatory registration of your bike
- Requirement to install a rear-view mirror
- Compulsory use of an approved helmet
Consequences of Violations
Violations while riding a motorized 2-wheeler can result in fines like those for other road users! Earlier this year in Angers, a cyclist on a speedbike was caught speeding at 25.5 mph in an 18 mph zone and fined $60. Yes, this applies even to bicycles!
Riding in a cycle lane can result in fines of up to $170. Failure to register your vehicle can lead to a $810 fine, which increases to $4,050 if the vehicle is uninsured.
Conclusion
Depending on your bike, you have two insurance options:
- Home insurance for your conventional electric bike (15 mph)
- Motorcycle insurance for your electric speedbike (28 mph)
Luko Insurance
A clear contract, 2x faster reimbursements, a 100% digital and transparent model.
Included in Luko home insurance: bicycle theft and vandalism, reimbursement of damage caused to a third party in the event of a bicycle accident.