Bike Insurance in Germany - The Ultimate Guide – Here are the Best Providers (2024)
If you're a cyclist in Germany, it's important to have bike insurance to protect yourself and your bike. But with so many options and terms to navigate, it can be overwhelming. This guide will help you understand the different types of bike insurance available in Germany and what they cover, so you can make an informed decision.
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What is Bike Insurance in Germany?
Bike insurance is something which will protect your shiny new (and sometimes used) bike in case it becomes damaged, stolen, or simply has a worn-out component. There are many different levels of bike insurance from different providers which have wildly different coverage plans.
There are two ways you can insure your bike in Germany:
Homeowners insurance or apartment/home rental insurance with extra bike insurance.
Independent bike insurance policy.
Why do You Need Bike Insurance?
Cycling in Germany is extremely popular, but so is the theft of bicycles. In 2020, 260,000 bicycles were reported stolen. According to GDV, the total cost was reported to be 110 million euros with an average price paid by insurance providers at 730 euros. In 2010, the average price was only 400 euros.
Higher-end bikes are becoming more popular and E-Bike sales are growing dramatically. Thieves are now targeting these more common higher end bikes to receive a higher resale value.
If you have a bike in Germany and often use it and/or park it outside, bike insurance is highly recommended.
Best Bike Insurance Providers in Germany
Not all bike insurance in Germany is created equal. We have reviewed four different providers in Germany to help you choose which will cover you the best.
Bike Age | New within 6 months | Less than 12 months - immediate coverage | Within 36 months of applying | Within 3 years of applying |
More than 12 months - 6 week waiting period | ||||
Second-hand bike Coverage | No | Yes, only if original retailer receipt can be supplied. | Yes | Yes, only if original retailer receipt can be supplied. |
Carbon bike Coverage | No | Yes | Yes | Yes. But damage to frame not included. |
E-Bike Coverage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
High-speed E-Bike (Pedelec) | No | No | No | No |
E-Bike Battery Protection | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Max Bike Price | €10,000 | €15,000 | €15,000 | €10,000 |
Non-Retailer Purchased | No | Yes/No. All claims require retailer invoice, 2nd hand still ok. Private purchase receipt needed. | Yes/No. All claims require retailer invoice, 2nd hand still ok. Private purchase receipt needed. | Yes/No. All claims require retailer invoice, 2nd hand still ok. Private purchase receipt needed. |
Use any lock you like | €29 for bikes < €1,000 €49 for bikes > €1,000 | Yes. Invoice required. | Yes | Not a combination lock |
Breakdown and pick-up service | No | No. Separate plan | Yes | Optional |
24/7 Coverage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
English website | Yes | No | No | No |
Minimum contract duration | Cancel anytime | 3 months for monthly plan | Cancel anytime | 1 year |
1 year for annual plan | ||||
Worldwide coverage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes, up to 6 months |
Full Value Coverage | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Wear & Tear coverage | Yes (6-month waiting period) | Yes (4-month waiting period on e-bikes) | Yes (5 year bike age maximum) | Yes |
Deductible amount | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Price starting from | € 2.90 | € 4.79 | € 5.83 | € 5.36 |
Source: Feather
Feather:
Feather is the only English website with English customer support. They currently cover new bikes purchased from within 6 months. However, they will soon be adding a ‘classic cover’ for bikes purchased up to 42 months before. Carbon bikes are not covered. Bikes must be secured to immovable object.
E-bikes are covered, even the batteries. The basic coverage will include theft of batteries while the ‘comfort’ coverage will include that plus damage and wear and tear (if battery performance capacity is undercut by 50%.)
Bikes must be secured to immovable object with suitable bike lock, which is ADFC or VdS certified. Communal cellars and vehicle bike racks are covered.
Pros:
€2.90/month, lowest cost option
2 plan options
€10,000 coverage
Full cost coverage
Covers vandalism, theft, burglary and theft of fixed parts
English website and customer service
Cancel anytime
E-bike coverage with battery theft protection
Very clear and easy to understand coverage
Cons:
Cannot sign-up if bike is over 6 months old
Bikes must be purchased from authorized retailer
Carbon bikes not covered
Lock cost requirements
€29 for bikes under €1,000
€49 for bikes over €1,000
ADFC or VdS certified also covered
Wear and tear coverage has 6 month waiting period on maximum 3-year-old bikes
To qualify for this insurance coverage, we recommend the following locks, which are ADFC or VdS certified.
This key-actuated chain lock:
This combination actuated chain lock:
This key-actuated folding lock:
Go here to get a bike insurance quote from Feather!
Hepster
Hepster takes a unique approach to evaluating replacement costs for their bicycle insurance program. They reimburse for the new value of the bike up to the maximum of the agreed sum insured. For example, if you buy a used bike for 1,999 euros but the same bike new costs 3,999 euros, you should select the insured amount of the new price. If you were to file a qualified claim, you could receive the value of the new bike. However, it is important to point out that the original invoice is still necessary to file the claim. If you buy the bike used, be sure to obtain the original invoice. You must also obtain a private purchase receipt.
You are free to use any lock you like; however, you must secure the bike to an immovable object. You must also submit proof of purchase or invoice of your bike lock to file a claim.
Pros:
Very broad coverage
High €15,000 coverage
2nd hand purchases can be insured
Claims can equal the ‘new’ price and not the used purchase price
Accessories included, up to €300 per item
Full transparency
Fast 24/7 support
Online & app based management and support
No bike age limit (6 week waiting period if over 12 months)
Monthly or annual insurance plans
Cons:
German website, contract, and communication
Annual contract means 1 year minimum before cancelling
Wear and tear does not apply to bikes over 3 years old
Source: Helden. Translated to English with Google Translate.
Helden
Helden is a company out of Hamburg founded in 2016. All of the contracts are handled in German however the customer support may be able to help provide support in English.
Pros:
€15,000 coverage
Cancel anytime
Fully digital, no paperwork
Bike must be purchased within 36 months of applying
2nd hand purchases can be insured
Free exchange service – Helden will cancel your old plan for you
Everyone you allow to use your bike is covered
Gross negligence is covered
Bike racing (occasional prize money is ok) is covered
Cons:
German website and contract
Most expensive starting price of €5.83
Go here to get a quote at Helden
Source: MVK Versicherung. Translated to English with Google Translate.
MVK Versicherung
MVK is a company which has been around since 1899 and offers bike insurance for two different types of bikes at two levels. Standard pedals bikes and e-bikes (pedelecs) are covered at a ‘Classic’ and ‘Top’ level.
Pros:
2nd hand purchases can be insured
Clear and defined mobility guarantee (Top insurance option)
€50 daily bike rental, 7 days maximum
€500 transportation cost
€80/night accommodation cost, max 5 nights
Fixed accessories are covered (Lights, baskets, odometer, etc.)
€1,000 maximum, €300 per item maximum
Bicycle trailer attached to bike is also covered
Cons:
German website, contract, and communication
Less clear first-glance contract conditions, download (translate in Google Translate if needed)
What IS Covered with Bike Insurance in Germany
In Germany, bike insurance has very broad coverage… much more than home contents insurance. It can cover things like theft to replacement parts and pickup services.
Theft
Burglary, robbery, and theft are covered under bike insurance plans in Germany.
Assembled Parts Theft
Any parts which are permanently attached to your bike will be covered under your bike insurance plan. For example, water bottle cages, saddles, wheels and lights.
E-Bike Battery Protection
If someone steals the battery from your E-bike, it becomes damaged, or loses capacity more quickly than expected, you’re covered. Feather is a great option for E-bikes and they specifically say that if battery capacity is undercut by 50%, you will be protected.
Vandalism
In Germany, it is important to have bike insurance to protect against damages and theft. If your bike is vandalized, it is considered a criminal act and must be reported to the police. To file a claim with your insurance provider, you will need to provide photos of the damages and a police report. It is always better to be prepared and insured to avoid any unexpected expenses.
Damage
Some bicycle insurance companies will cover damage on your bike, such as Feather and Hepster. If your bike becomes damaged in an accident (accidental fall for example) or due to production or operating errors, you are covered. It is important to note, however that these cannot occur during a sporting event (unless you use Helden.)
Wear & Tear
Yes, even wear and tear is covered with bicycle insurance in Germany. However, all 4 of the bicycle insurance providers we have mentioned here have different stipulations for cover. The requirements can vary depending on age of the bike and may have a waiting period. But for example, should your tires or brakes become worn out, some will pay for the replacement costs.
What is Not Covered with Bike Insurance in Germany
Not everything is covered with your bike, and each insurance plan has different rules.
Maintenance and Inspections
Regular maintenance and inspection costs for your bicycle are usually not covered.
Damage That you Caused to 3rd Parties
If you crashed into another person and injured them or damaged their property, your bicycle insurance will not cover you. For that, we highly recommend you have private liability insurance. This type of insurance is the most popular and common to use in Germany.
Intentional Damage
If you’ve damaged your bike on purpose. You are not covered.
Damage Covered by 3rd Parties
If you have an issue with your bike which is covered by a recall or under a warranty. You will need to use the correct channels to have the 3rd parties cover the cost. Your insurance will not help you here.
Unapproved locks
Yes, you heard that right. Several bike insurance providers in Germany require specific locks to be used. Even those who don’t require a specific lock may require an invoice to show what lock you used. Save your receipts/invoices.
In addition to this, every insurance company requires your bike to be locked to an immovable object, such as a light post or bike rack.
Damage From Sporting Events or Races
Competing in events is often not covered by bike insurance. However, Helden does still cover this scenario… as long as it’s not considered commercial. Although don’t worry, according to them, even winning some money here and there does not exclude you from this coverage
Scratches, Rust, Oxidation & Similar Damage
In most cases, scratches, rust, oxidation, and other types of surface problems are not covered by your bike insurance coverage.
Unreported Theft
All theft must be reported to the police within 24 hours. Your bike insurance provider must also be made aware of this immediately. They will need a copy of your police report as well.
Using Someone Else’s Bike
If you have bike insurance but are using someone else’s, you’re not covered. But if the owner of the bike you are using has this insurance, it will probably be covered.
Bikes Without a Serial Number (Frame Number or Coding)
A serial number of the bike is a requirement to prove you’re the owner. Without this, no proof can be provided and you are not covered.
What Types of Bikes are Covered with Bike Insurance in Germany?
Not all bike insurance companies in Germany have the same restrictions when it comes to bike type and age. For example, some may not cover carbon fiber bikes and some may only approve your coverage if your bike is almost brand new.
Old Bike
If your bike is older than 3 years, you will not find many options.
Hepster is a great option if you have an older used bike, but you will have a 6-week waiting period. Be sure to also ask the original owner for the invoice and create an extra invoice for the used bike sale.
To make a used bike invoice, ADFC has a great template you should use.
E-Bikes
E-Bikes are covered (Pedelecs up to 25kph). High speed E-bikes (45kph S-pedelec) is not covered on any insurance plan we reviewed.
Cargo Bikes
Cargo bikes are covered under most bike insurance plans.
Expensive Bikes
Most insurance plans have a bike value limit of 10,000 euros. However, Hepster has the highest coverage limit of €15,000, which is a great option for high-end road bikes, mountain bikes, and e-bikes.
Carbon Fiber Bikes
Not all providers will cover your carbon fiber bike. Hepster is a good provider which will cover you. MVK will also cover a carbon bike, but not the frame damage. Carbon road bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes can be included.
Bikes Not Purchased from Authorized Retailer
Not all insurance providers will cover bikes which were not purchase from an authorized retailer. Hepster, for example, will still allow insurance coverage for used bike purchases if the original receipt is provided. Be sure to also create a used bike sale receipt.
Home-made or Heavily Modified Bikes
If you built a bike yourself or heavily modified it, you will not be covered.
Bikes Which Require a License
There are 2 types of E-Bikes. They are often called a Pedelecs and S-Pedelecs.
Pedelecs (standard E-Bike) have a speed limit of 25kph and do not require any type of license. These are often covered.
S-Pedelecs (high-speed E-Bike) have a speed limit of 45kph and require a license. These types of E-Bikes are not covered by any of the listed insurance plans.
Do I need Bike Insurance if I already have Home Content Insurance?
Maybe. Standard home content insurance typically will only cover a percentage of the total bike cost. This might be acceptable if you have a cheap or second-hand bike. Some older plans may have something called a ‘nighttime clause’ which will only protect your bike from 6am to 10pm. Home content insurance also often only covers theft, which is only a small amount of coverage compared to secondary bike insurance.
If you have home content insurance with an extra coverage for your bike, you will be well protected… but often only when it’s locked at home.
If you have only standard home content insurance, it is recommended to have dedicated secondary bike insurance to protect your new ride. Bike insurance will protect you 24 hours a day, assuming you are following the basic requirements to secure it.
Basic Conditions for Coverage
To be able to receive your claim, some basic conditions must be met.
A Good Lock
You should never try to save money on a lock to secure your pride and joy. Cheap locks are easy to break open and/or easy to cut. Buy a reputable lock with a strong mechanism and good materials.
Some bike insurance providers require a certain amount of money spent on a lock depending on your bike cost. Others might not have a price requirement, but they may still require you to share the invoice or receipt of which lock you used to secure your bike if it was stolen.
To comply with all of the recommended German bike insurance providers in this article, we recommend buying a lock which is ADFC or VdS certified. It can help protect your bike and also ensure your claim can be covered.
Here is what we use and recommend:
This key-actuated chain lock:
This combination actuated chain lock:
This key-actuated folding lock:
Secured to Permanent Object
With all bike insurance coverage plans, it is a requirement that your bike is secured to a permanent object. This must be something like a bike rack, tree, or railing. In some cases, a bike rack on your car is also adequate, like with Feather.
Permanently Attached Parts
If you want to ensure that certain parts of your bike are covered by insurance, they must be securely attached to your bike. This means that items such as lights must be permanently mounted to your bike to be protected against theft.
Example of a frame’s serial number, which often starts with ‘S/N’ at the front.
What is a Frame Serial Number & Coding?
You need to provide your bike’s serial number or coding to be approved for bike insurance. These numbers will identify you as the only owner.
Frame Serial Number
The serial number is often stamped or applied with a sticker to the bottom of the bike’s down tube or bottom bracket shell. It’s best to take a picture of any number or identifier on your bike to document it. This is also often indicated on your original bike invoice. If you buy a bike used, be sure to include this number on the used bike invoice.
Frame (Bike) coding
Bike coding is different than a serial number and allows you to make a personal code on the frame. This code is a series of numbers and letters, showing where you live and your initials.
Coding your bike is highly recommended due to the fact that it makes reselling after theft extremely difficult. You can have this done at a dedicated bike dealer, the police, or the Allgemeine Deutscher Fahrrad-Club (ADFC.)
FAQ
How Expensive is Bike Insurance in Germany?
Bike insurance is not expensive and begins at €2.90 per month (with Feather) for a basic plan and then can go up from there. It can provide a sense of relief and ease your nerves every time you are out riding or locking it up outside of a coffee shop. These plans will all pay the retail or replacement price up to your coverage amount.
Are E-Bikes (Pedelecs) Covered with Bike Insurance?
Yes, E-Bikes are covered with bike insurance and often need to be applied for through a dedicate page on the provider websites. High speed E-Bikes (S-pedelecs) which require a license are not covered.
Are Used Bikes Covered?
Yes and no. Some plans, such as Hepster, will cover your used bike not purchased from an authorized retailer. It is important that you still obtain the new bike invoice as well as the used bike invoice to receive your claim.
What is the Compensation Amount?
In Germany, bike insurance policies typically cover the replacement value of your bike in the event of theft. This means that you will receive the necessary funds to purchase a new bike to replace the stolen one, up to the limit of your total insured sum. It's important to note that even if the replacement value of your bike is higher than your insured sum, you will only receive the maximum amount specified in your policy.
Bike insurance is often included as part of home contents insurance. However, it's important to note that the coverage for bike theft may be limited. For instance, if your home contents insurance covers up to 40,000 EUR, the provider may only pay out 1% of that sum if your bike is stolen. This means you may only receive 400 EUR in compensation, which may not be enough to replace your stolen bike depending on its value. It's important to review your insurance policy carefully and consider additional coverage if necessary.
Hepster takes a unique approach to evaluating replacement costs for their bicycle insurance program. They reimburse for the new value of the bike up to the maximum of the agreed sum insured. For example, if you buy a used bike for 1,999 euros but the same bike new costs 3,999 euros, you should select the insured amount of the new price. If you were to file a qualified claim, you could receive the value of the new bike. However, it is important to point out that the original invoice is still necessary to file the claim. If you buy the bike used, be sure to obtain the original invoice. You must also obtain a private purchase receipt.
Which Countries am I covered in with German Bike Insurance?
All insurance providers we have indicated in this article provide worldwide coverage if you plan on traveling. MVK, however, will only cover up to 6 months.
Does Bicycle insurance cover damages you cause while biking?
In Germany, bike insurance typically covers theft and vandalism of your bike, but it does not cover damages you may cause to others while riding. For that, you would need private liability insurance.
Will Bike Insurance Cover me at Racing Events?
Only Helden indicates that damage to your bike during a sporting event is acceptable, assuming it’s not done commercially. They also specify that some race winnings will not disqualify this. The other insurance providers say that competition use is not covered.
Conclusion
In conclusion, bike insurance in Germany is not mandated and can be covered by your home content insurances. But even if it is, supplemental bike insurance will provide a much more broad coverage. Given how common bike theft is in Germany, especially with more expensive bikes, particularly E-Bikes, insurance can certainly relieve your nerves of leaving your bike locked up in the middle of the city.
Bike insurance is relatively cheap and will pay the replacement cost of your new bike, which will only make you feel more comfortable to ride your bike wherever you want and enjoy your time, even on vacation outside of Germany.
If you ride bikes in Germany and often lock your bike outdoors, supplemental bike insurance is strongrly recommended.
We strongly recommend looking at Feather and Hepster, simply because they offer very clear and concise coverage in different levels.
