If you are a member of the ever-growing bicyclists’ community, you may have heard about E-Bikes – an increasingly popular trend all around the globe.
What is an e-bike?
An e-bike, or electric bike, is a standard bicycle that has been equipped with an electric motor, battery and a controller. For the most part, it looks and handles like a standard bicycle, and requires similar maintenance. Unlike a moped, scooter or motorcycle, it is not exclusively motor-powered and does not make human power obsolete. Rather, it augments its rider’s power.
Cyclists of all ages and styles are attracted to the possibilities of an e-bike: Whether it is used for leisurely rides, sporty trails, or as an environmentally friendly alternative to the commute – various styles and sizes of e-bikes are sure to offer a right fit for everybody.
The challenge with an eBike is that it can be difficult to insure.
A standard, human-powered bicycle is covered for liability and most physical damage under a standard home insurance policy. However, the addition of a motor (no matter how small) makes it a “motorized vehicle” which is excluded from coverage on a home insurance policy.
That means, if your e-bike is damaged or stolen, or if you cause injury or property damage to another person and are held liable, there is no insurance coverage to help pay the claim against you.
The problem: Many e-bike owners are not aware of this serious gap in their coverage!
The good news: McClain Insurance can now provide protection for damage and liability on electric bicycles on a stand-alone policy starting at an average of $250 per year!
For more information on insurance for your electric bicycle, please give us a call at 425-379-9200 or simply click here.
McClain Insurance Services is the premier provider of e-bike insurance in Washington, Oregon and Utah.