Everything You Need to Know About Ebike Insurance

As ebikes become more common on Australian roads, so do questions around how to protect them. While car and home insurance are widely understood, ebike insurance remains a grey area for many. Do you need it? What does it cover? Is it worth the cost?

Whether you're riding to work, exploring trails, or using your ebike for deliveries, understanding the risks and protections available can help you make an informed decision. This guide covers everything you need to know about ebike insurance—what it includes, why it matters, and how to choose the right policy.

The short answer is no—ebike insurance isn’t required by law in Australia for most riders. As long as your ebike meets local classification standards, you’re not legally obliged to take out an insurance policy.

Ebikes that meet these criteria are treated similarly to traditional bicycles. You don’t need a licence, registration, or insurance to ride them on public roads, shared paths, or trails. But if your bike exceeds those limits (e.g. throttle-only models or motor-assisted speeds above 25 km/h), it may be reclassified as a motorised vehicle and subject to different rules—including compulsory third-party insurance.

However, just because it's not required doesn’t mean it isn’t a smart idea—especially when you consider the value of many ebikes and the risks involved in everyday riding.

While you're not legally required to insure your ebike, the potential benefits make it a strong consideration for most riders. First and foremost, ebikes are a significant investment. A quality model typically ranges between $2,000 and $10,000, and high-end setups can go even higher. That’s not something most people can afford to replace easily if it’s stolen or damaged.

Beyond the value, ebikes come with more technology and complexity than standard bicycles. They rely on batteries, motors, and electronic controls—all of which are more expensive to repair or replace. In the event of a crash, a mechanical failure, or vandalism, the cost of fixing these components can quickly add up.

There’s also the matter of liability. Ebikes are heavier and faster than regular bicycles. In the event of a collision or incident involving property damage or personal injury, you could be held financially responsible. A comprehensive insurance policy can protect you from unexpected legal costs or damage claims.

In short, ebike insurance helps protect not only your ride but also your wallet and peace of mind.

Ebike insurance is designed to bridge the gap between traditional bike coverage (which often excludes motorised vehicles) and the specific risks that come with electric-powered rides. A good policy should cover:

• Theft – If your ebike is stolen from your home, work, or while locked up in public.

• Vandalism – Damage caused by someone deliberately tampering with your bike.

• Accidental Damage – Crashes, falls, or collisions that damage your frame, battery, or electronics.

• Fire or Flood Damage – Depending on your policy, you may be covered for natural disasters.

• Third-Party Liability – If you injure someone or damage property while riding your ebike.

• Personal Accident Cover – A lump sum payment in case you’re seriously injured.

• Battery and Electrical Components – Cover for costly repairs or replacements due to malfunction or impact.

Some insurers also offer optional extras like rental replacement (so you’re not stuck without transport) or worldwide cover for travellers taking their bike overseas.

It's essential to read the policy carefully and understand what is and isn’t included. Some policies exclude commercial use, off-road riding, or modifications to your ebike.

A common misconception is that ebikes are fully covered under standard home and contents policies. In many cases, this coverage is limited—or non-existent.

Here’s why:

• Motorised items are often excluded or only partially covered.

• Theft away from home (like from a public bike rack) may not be included.

• Liability coverage usually only applies to events that occur on your property.

• Claim limits may not reflect the full value of your ebike, especially if it’s a premium model.

Even if your policy mentions bicycle coverage, it's worth contacting your insurer to ask specifically about ebikes. If your policy has a blanket exclusion for electrically assisted bikes, your coverage might stop the moment you power on.

One of the most overlooked aspects of ebike insurance is personal accident cover. While most riders think about theft or crash damage, it’s just as important to consider what happens if you’re seriously injured while riding.

Personal accident insurance typically provides a lump sum payment or income protection if you suffer from a major injury—such as fractures, head trauma, or hospitalisation—after an ebike accident. This can help cover medical bills, time off work, or rehabilitation costs that aren’t fully paid for by Medicare or private health insurance.

This type of cover is especially valuable for commuters, delivery riders, or anyone using their ebike regularly in high-traffic areas. Accidents happen—even when you’re riding safely—and having financial protection in place adds peace of mind.

No one ever expects to be at fault in an accident, but if it happens, the costs can be significant. If you accidentally hit a pedestrian, damage someone’s property, or cause a collision with a vehicle, you could be legally and financially responsible.

This is where third-party liability cover steps in. It pays for damages, compensation, or legal fees if you’re found liable in an incident while riding your ebike. In cities and suburbs where bike lanes mix with traffic and footpaths, this cover is more important than ever.

It also helps protect your savings and assets—because even a minor injury to another person can result in claims for thousands of dollars in medical or legal costs.

Ebike theft is a real problem, particularly in major urban centres. Whether it’s opportunistic theft from a bike rack or a targeted break-in at home, high-value bikes are common targets. We've received several reports from Ridewave customers affected by e-bike theft or vandalism —and in some cases, insurance has been their only safety net.

A strong insurance policy will cover full replacement value of your ebike if it’s stolen, often with the option to choose a new bike of equal value. Some policies also cover attempted theft, including damage caused when someone tries to cut through your lock or tamper with your frame.

Even with a top-tier lock, no bike is completely theft-proof. If your ebike is your daily transport—or a prized possession—insurance acts as your financial safety net when prevention fails.

Not all ebike insurance is created equal. Before you buy, consider how and where you ride. A recreational rider using a mid-range ebike on weekends will need different cover than a city commuter or delivery worker riding daily in traffic.

Here’s what to look for:

• Accurate valuation – Make sure the policy reflects the full cost of your ebike and its accessories.

• Low excess options – A low or no excess for theft or crash claims can be worth paying slightly more for.

• Battery and electronics cover – Check that electric components are included, not excluded.

• Flexible usage – Some policies exclude business use or off-road riding. Choose one that fits your routine.

And finally, look into customer reviews and the claims process. A responsive, helpful insurer with local support can make all the difference when you actually need to make a claim.

The cost of ebike insurance in Australia varies depending on several factors—but for most riders, it’s surprisingly affordable.

On average, policies start from around $150 to $400 per year, depending on:

• The value of your bike

• Where and how you store it

• Your riding frequency and location

• Whether you add optional covers like accident or third-party liability

Insurers may also adjust your premium based on age, postcode, or if your ebike has modifications or aftermarket accessories. While comprehensive cover costs more, it also offers the peace of mind that your investment is fully protected, no matter where or how you ride.

Insurance isn’t a must for everyone—but for many, it’s well worth it. Here’s when it tends to deliver the most value:

• You ride daily for commuting or business (e.g. deliveries)

• You own a premium or custom-built ebike

• Your bike is regularly parked in public places

• You ride in dense traffic or high-risk environments

• You want protection from personal injury or liability claims

Even a single incident—like a crash, theft, or legal claim—can cost more than several years of premiums. If you’d struggle to replace your ebike out of pocket, or just want a safety net, a well-chosen insurance policy is worth considering.

You’re not legally required to insure your ebike—but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. With theft rates on the rise, road risks increasing, and ebike prices climbing, insurance offers practical protection for modern riders.

From theft and crashes to legal liability and personal injury, a well-structured policy can protect both your ride and your finances. And with costs often under a dollar a day, the investment is small compared to what you could lose.

Think of ebike insurance not just as protection—but as peace of mind.