Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

We have split the FAQ's into 10 sections - please click on the relevant link to see those questions.

About the cover
About proof of ownership
About the policy options (Active/Leisure/Electric bike options)
About the policy options (area cover)
About bikes, parts and accessories
About locks and security
About the company
About the site
Problems opening or receiving documents
How to complain

About bikes, parts and accessories

1) My bicycle is made up of different parts and not an off the shelf bike, with various parts being older than 3 years. How will the depreciation affect any claim I may make?
- If the bike frame is older than 3 years old, depreciation would be taken into account (10% for every year from the date of manufacture). It is important to note that depreciation is applied to the entire bike and not just the parts – the age of the bike is decided by the age of the frame, regardless of whether newer parts exist on the bicycle.

2) I constructed my bike myself - can I still be covered? The frame, drive train and components were all bought from separate stores. Do I need proof of purchase for all components? And can I include an amount in the insured value for the time I spent constructing the bike?
- When insuring custom built bikes we ask that you insure them for the full retail cost as new to replace with the same or similar frame and components as you currently have. Unfortunately you cannot include the time it would take to build up your bike again.
  
  In the event of a claim you do need to provide us with proof of ownership for your bike and lock, so as your bike does consist of various components we would require receipts, packaging, instruction manuals, or photographs for your bike and the components attached, in order to be able to replace the bike with the same or similar.
  
  If the bike frame is older than 3 years old, depreciation would be taken into account (10% for every year from the date of manufacture of the frame). It is important to note that depreciation is applied to the entire bike and not just the parts – the age of the bike is decided by the age of the frame, regardless of whether newer parts exist on the bicycle.

3) I have a racing bike with several sets of racing wheels which I also need to insure. Should I include the cost of them in my bike value.
- Hmmmm, good question and a slightly tricky one to answer!
  
  If you feel that the threat of damage to your bicycle and collection of wheels would mostly likely occur at your home, we would advise that you note all the wheels and we would endorse your policy (this means we make an official note that whilst it is not our standard procedure, we have accepted the items and risk).
  
  If you feel that the threat of damage would occur whilst using the bicycle, you would be best to value your bicycle with the most expensive set of wheels, which would be the greatest 'risk' that we would face (and obviously the worst case scenario – financially speaking for you).

4) I have about £60 worth of accessories on my bike that are non-removable e.g. mud guards and pedals. If my bike was stolen, would I need to have already informed you of these additions or can I just claim the insured value that I have increased to include the accessories? Do I need proof of purchase or a photo to prove that these items are on the bike?
- You need to detail your bicycle and any fixed accessories when taking out the policy. If you buy accessories later and add them to your bicycle, you can update the value of your bicycle online or by calling the call centre.
  
  You need proof of ownership of the items, this can include receipts, packaging or photos of the items attached to the bicycle.

5) Hi, I want to insure my bike but don't have a frame no. Can I still insure it with you?
- Yes you can but you will need to either have your post code etched into the frame (which can be done at your local police station or cycle retailer) or put a Datatag inside the frame and provide us with the Datatag number.
  
  Datatags can be purchased at many cycle shops and online at Evans Cycles.

6) I have recently purchased a child trailer costing £500 do you cover such items?
- Yes – although you need to note this on your policy and ensure the overall sum insured includes the value of the trailer.

7) Do you cover accessories eg lights, panniers etc?
- Yes, we cover fixed accessories and these should be noted with the bicycle details when you complete an application. Please note that these fixed accessories are only covered when stolen with your bike at the same time.

If you can't find an answer to the question you're looking for, submit your question and email address and we'll endeavour to get back to you as soon as possible with the answer. (Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm only)

Questions marked with an asterisk (*) are compulsory.