The bicycle is one of the most popular ways of getting around in Germany. Millions of people use it every day to get to work, for leisure trips or as sports equipment. With the growing trend towards high-quality e-bikes, road bikes and mountain bikes, purchase prices have risen considerably in recent years. The financial risk of owning such a bike has grown with them. That is why bicycle insurance (Fahrradversicherung) is becoming a serious and sensible consideration for more and more people.
Bicycle insurance closes an important gap in standard home contents insurance (Hausratversicherung). Home contents insurance does cover bicycle theft in some cases, but often only under very limited conditions, for example only at night or if the bike was parked in a locked room. Stand-alone bicycle insurance gives much broader protection and also applies to theft outdoors, transport damage and damage from accidents. That protects the bike all round: on the street, at the station and on the road.
In German cities, bicycle theft is unfortunately a widespread problem. By some estimates, several hundred thousand bicycles are stolen every year, many of them despite good locks and a safe parking spot. Anyone who owns an expensive bike should therefore take insurance seriously. For e-bikes in particular, which can quickly cost several thousand euros, insurance is hard to do without. The financial loss from a stolen bike can be considerable and badly disrupt everyday life.
Bicycle insurance is worthwhile for all cyclists, whether the bike is used daily or only now and then. It is especially recommended for commuters who regularly have to leave their bike unattended, and for anyone who has invested in a high-quality bike. In cities with a higher theft risk the cover is especially important, but it can prove its value quickly in rural areas too.
When taking out bicycle insurance there are a few key points to consider: the sum insured, which should match the bike's actual value, and the exact conditions under which theft is covered. Some policies require a certain minimum lock or contain specific clauses on how the bike is secured. Cover for damage from falls or collisions is also relevant and should be clarified before you sign.
We also recommend not forgetting liability: anyone who causes an accident while cycling and harms others can be held liable. Private liability insurance (Privathaftpflichtversicherung) often covers such damage, but it is worth checking in advance to make sure there is no gap. Together we find the solution that suits you and your bike.
Bicycle insurance: benefits
Three insurance options:
- Home contents insurance: Burglary, robbery, fire/explosion/tap water/storm/hail. All bikes in the household are insured. Replacement at new value. 6 months of travel cover.
- Home contents plus bicycle protection add-on: Also covers simple theft (with a lock) and loss in transit (bus/train/plane). Worldwide, unlimited. All bikes in the household. Rental bike for up to 7 days (25 euros/day).
- Item cover (stand-alone): Smart (theft and damage), Komfort (extended), Premium (all risks). Worldwide, 24/7. Compensation at new value. Up to 20,000 euros per bike.
No night-time clause. No minimum bike value. E-cargo bikes up to 25 km/h are covered under home contents/item cover; S-pedelecs above 25 km/h need separate insurance.
In case of theft: secure evidence, file a police report, notify the insurer. Average claim in 2024: 1,190 euros.
