Why e-bike riders need breakdown cover more than ever

There’s something quietly liberating about riding an e-bike. Hills flatten, distances shrink, and longer commutes become a breeze. But there’s a flip side to all this smooth, battery-assisted gliding – when something goes wrong, it can go really wrong. And that’s exactly why e-bike riders could do with a backup plan: Breakdown cover.

Yes, you read that right. Breakdown cover – like the kind you’d usually associate with cars – is fast becoming an essential for e-cyclists. And for good reason.

Unlike their analogue cousins, e-bikes are heavier, more complex, and often rely on a network of electronic components that, when they go on strike, can’t be coaxed back to life with a multitool and a bit of optimism. Some e-bikes won’t even power up unless they’ve successfully paired with their owner’s phone – a frustrating twist if your battery’s fine but your app’s gone rogue.

Then there’s the size. Try wheeling a longtail cargo bike – or worse, a fully loaded electric trike – across town when the motor gives up and you’re suddenly dragging 40 kilos of family logistics without assistance. Not only impractical, for many riders it’s downright impossible. Especially for those using e-bikes as mobility aids, a breakdown isn’t just inconvenient – it can leave them stranded.

Cycle Rescue: Breakdown cover for cyclists

Enter Cycle Rescue, ETA’s 24-hour recovery service that does exactly what it says on the tin: Rescues you and your bike. Whether you’ve suffered a puncture, flat battery, or something more sinister, the team will arrange transport to get you and your cycle to safety.

We launched the UK’s first Cycle Rescue service 30 years ago – and today the service is included for free with ETA’s cycle insurance, or available as a standalone policy for just £24 a year. That’s less than the cost of a good quality bicycle tyre, let alone a taxi across town with a 30kg bike in tow.

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The growing number of people using e-bikes to extend their independence – older riders, disabled cyclists, and those living further from town centres – only underlines the need for backup. Inaccessible infrastructure and long distances already make active travel a logistical puzzle for some. A mechanical failure shouldn’t be the thing that dissuades someone from cycling.

Cycle Rescue is free with ETA bicycle insurance

If you suffer a breakdown (including punctures, or even a flat e-bike battery) while out cycling, our 24-hour Cycle Rescue team is on hand to arrange transport for you and your bicycle to a safe location. The service is included for free with ETA cycle insurance, along with:

• Theft, accidental damage & vandalism
• E-bike battery theft cover
• Cycle Rescue
• 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)
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The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.

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