Insurance companies treat manual bicycles very differently from e-bikes because e-bikes have a motor. A manual bicycle, like many of us have ridden since we were children, is treated by insurance companies as personal property, the same way they view other sporting equipment. However, an e-bike is considered to be a vehicle because it has a motor! This means insurance companies want you to ensure your e-bike as you would a car or golf cart. They require a year, make, model and serial number of your e-bike, which then is insured on a separate rider.
How do we know this? One of the most active members of the SaddleBrooke CycleMasters had his e-bike stolen at the El Tour de Tucson recently. That’s terrible! Then, when he called his insurance company about the theft, he learned that his e-bike was uninsured. Surprise! If you have an e-bike, call your insurance company and get it insured. Then, if something happens to your e-bike, you'll get a payment. Full insurance including liability, comprehensive and collision costs about $100 per year depending on the value of your e-bike.
Now, the good news! Amazingly, his e-bike was found and returned to him two weeks later in perfect condition! Road crew discovered his e-bike discarded along the route and took it to the El Tour de Tucson office. He had his name on his e-bike, so, they were able to locate him as the owner. That's another good idea: put your name on your e-bike. Then, let's hope you never need to use the insurance.
