Since e-bike sales have increased dramatically over the past several years, it is not surprising that e-bike theft has increased as well. A staggering 815 percent increase in the previous five years has been revealed by Aviva, who noted a 37% increase in insurance claims in 2021 compared to 2020.

According to the insurance, an average e-bike claim in 2016 was around £1,500 but is currently about £2,000.

"Pedal cycles, and e-bikes in particular, may cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds, so individuals should assess their insurance carefully," said Kelly Whittington, Director of Property Claims.

The variety of conditions and exclusions in electric bike insurance plans, as well as the policy features, might vary from one provider to the next, but most policies will cover the following:

Theft and malicious damage – If an e-bike is stolen or damaged, the owner will be compensated.

Accidental damage – If the owner has an accident, the cost of repairing or replacing the electric bike will be paid.

Bikes and e-bikes are usually covered by home contents insurance while they are within the house, although there may be a single item restriction for belongings that are stolen or destroyed. To make sure they are completely covered, more expensive models might need to be included individually. Also, there may be a cap on the value of objects kept in outbuildings and sheds, which is often approximately £2,500. While standalone special plans are available, several house insurance carriers also provide a cycle add-on option to protect bicycles outside the home.

It's always better to check with the insurer if in question because thefts could only be covered if the bike is in the customer's control or locked or secured in line with the policy requirements.

Even if overall bike theft is declining in the Netherlands, where the e-bike business is more developed, theft is on the rise there.

The conclusion is the result of two trends, according to Dutch bike theft watchdog SAFE.

Firstly, sales are growing. More than half of the bikes sold in the nation today are electric bikes.

Second, it's believed that e-bike owners are far more likely to report that their bike has been stolen. According to SAFE, owners of e-bikes are more likely to have insurance, therefore they would require a police report to make a compensation claim.