E-bike theft risk: Here's how to protect yours

Wouldn’t it be great if e-bikes could make themselves theft-proof? Some manufacturers have tried - offering remote disabling features, much like freezing a stolen credit card. But while this renders the bike useless to a thief, it doesn’t stop it being stolen in the first place.

E-bike parts - particularly batteries, which can set you back upwards of £500 - are hot property, and the bikes themselves can be cannibalised for other valuable parts. Most of us invest in hefty locks or discreet tracking devices like AirTags and Tiles, but thieves are becoming increasingly savvy to both.

That’s where e-bike insurance comes in - not as a deterrent, but as a way to make bike theft someone else’s problem. It won’t spare you the frustration and upset of losing your ride, but it does mean you could be back on the road with a brand new replacement within days.

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The obvious: Invest in a high-quality lock

E-bikes are the choice of ride for the canny small business owner, commuter, school runner, and, unfortunately, determined thief. With prices in the thousands, e-bikes aren't just a convenient way to beat motoring bills and traffic - they're a rolling invitation for criminals.

The first and most obvious line of defence for your e-bike is a sturdy lock. If your bike is worth £1,500 or more, along with other most other bicycle insurance providers, we insist on a Sold Secure Gold-rated lock. If you want maximum protection, there is now a Sold Secure Platinum rating, reserved for locks that are resistant to angle grinders, such as the Litelok X1. However, it's worth noting that angle grinder-resistant is not the same as angle grinder-proof. This new type of lock marks a genuine evolution in lock security, but no lock is unbeatable.

A word of warning: Steer clear of cable locks. Some of them are so feeble they can be cut through through in seconds.

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Consider tracker technology - but know its limitations

Tracking devices are becoming a popular cycling accessory. These range from Airtags and Tiles, to devices built into the frame of the e-bike. While these devices can provide live location data, the reality is that police response can be inconsistent.

One unfortunate customer of ours recently had their e-bike stolen. They provided officers with live tracking data of their stolen e-bike, only to receive a generic email informing them the case was closed due to “insufficient evidence.” Luckily, we did what the police couldn’t and quickly got him back on the road.

Choose your insurance wisely

The good news is that many providers now include e-bike cover as standard. However, policies vary widely. Some insurers advertise ‘new-for-old’ replacement schemes, but devalue bikes as they age. Others impose strict conditions around claiming for stolen batteries or components.

ETA bicycle insurance takes a more sympathetic approach. We never devalue bikes, regardless of age. Our no-quibble battery theft policy and comprehensive component cover ensure peace of mind. Plus, our 24/7 Cycle Rescue service covers breakdowns caused by punctures, mechanical issues, or even a flat battery.

Secure your storage space

Urban living often complicates e-bike storage. A front garden may seem like the perfect spot for a bike shed, but beware: planning consent is theoretically required for any structure in a front garden. In practice, it’s usually not an issue unless a neighbour complains. If that happens, you may need to apply for planning permission.

When installing a shed, consider the risk of theft. Thieves frequently target sheds, prompting many insurers to demand high-security locks on doors. By contrast, ETA cycle insurance offers more flexibility. We don’t require your bike to be locked while inside the shed, as long as it’s not visible through a window. If it is, simply cover it with a blanket.

If a shed isn’t feasible, check with your local council - some areas install communal bike hangars in response to demand. With prices for private sheds starting at around £300, communal options can be an affordable alternative.

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Insurance for e-bikes

Our e-bike insurance includes everything you’d expect, like theft, accidental damage and vandalism cover – plus a few things you might not. For example, we have a no-quibble battery theft policy, zero devaluation for life, and if you break down on your electric bike, or run out of battery, you can call us 24/7 and we’ll arrange a rescue. Whether you ride a tricycle, folding, mountain or cargo electric bike, our comprehensive policy has you covered.

Every ETA cycle insurance policy includes the following as standard:

• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
• Cycle Rescue (breakdown cover for your electric bicycle and you)
• No devaluation of your bike over time
• £2m third party PLUS £20,000 personal accident cover
• Shed and garage storage
• Low standard excess of 5% (£50 minimum)

Read a full list of everything we include as standard.

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