Electric bikes: should you take out dedicated insurance?

Electric bikes have become the favorite VAE of the French in a few months. Explosive sales probably boosted by the various aids offered, and by the desire of city dwellers to change modes of transport. During the health crisis, they also became an alternative to crowded public transport. But the electric bike is a certain investment and thefts are more and more frequent. Regarding insurance, it depends on the model: simple electric bike or Speed ​​Bike, the guarantees are different. In France, there is no obligation to insure a bicycle, whether electric or mechanical… However, it is better to be careful, and we will explain everything to you.

Which contract for a speed bike?

“Speed ​​Bike” insurance contracts are similar to those that one could take for a car in the end. He must offer civil liabilitywhich will cover you if you injure a third party in an accident or even if you damage another vehicle. You also have the option of taking out a contract that will cover damage to vehicles (fire, destruction following a fall or accident). Finally, it is possible to include, and it is strongly recommended, a guarantee against theft.

Don’t forget the driver’s warranty!

Whatever the insurance contract for a vehicle, it generally only covers injuries that you cause to others… But the driver is never covered himself if he is injured in an accident of which he is the author (responsible or not for that matter). Most insurers offer this coverage as an option.… Above all, do not refuse it! In the event of an accident and without driver’s guarantee, you would simply not be compensated!

What are the penalties for non-insurance?

As with all motor vehicles, the lack of insurance in the event of a simple control of a Speed ​​Bike is sanctioned with a fine of €135. But the sanctions can especially be very heavy in the event of an accident without insurance… In the event of an accident and injury to a third party, or even death, the author (or driver) will have to compensate the victims or their families. As much to say to you that sometimes, a life would simply not be enough to repay.

What about normal e-bikes?

As we have told you, the civil liability of the multi-risk home contract covers the use of an electric vehicle, including vehicles for children, provided that the speed does not exceed 6 km/h. If your electric bike, as authorized by French regulations, travels at 25 km/h or more, find out from your insurer. Sometimes, you just need to add a few guarantees to cover its use… By adding a few euros to your annual bill, of course. Whatever the model of your electric bike, insurance against theft and driver’s warranty seem essential to us! On the other hand, it is difficult to give a price for insurance for a bicycle: it will depend on the region, the use, the purchase price of the electric bicycle, its power, etc. The best thing is to ask your insurer for a simulation, taking care to gather all the technical information about your bike or speed bike.

The difference between an electric bike, a speed bike and a balance bike?

The electric bike

VAEs are not subject to any insurance obligation and are generally covered by family civil liability; it is therefore often included in the multi-risk home contract.

Le speed bike

For Speed ​​Bikes, which exceed 25 km/h in speed and can operate without pedaling, it is different: if they are designated as fast electric bicycles, they are in fact assimilated to mopeds… They are therefore subject to obtaining a BSR to drive it, and to a minimum third-party insurance obligation.

The balance bike

A balance bike is quite similar to a bicycle; on the other hand, it has particular specificities that make it qualify as a balance bike. Smaller wheels and above all a total absence of pedals. Balance bikes have recently entered the legal framework of the highway code.

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