From theft to battery fires

Electric bikes remain very popular – and anyone who cycles calmly to work in the morning knows why. But e-bikes are significantly more expensive than non motorised models, and with that the risks increase. Janna Poll, ERGO insurance expert, explains what to look out for when it comes to insuring these high value bikes.

Theft in public places

You park it for a moment, look away – and the bike is gone. In Germany, according to police crime statistics, around 214,300 bicycles were stolen in 2025, a considerable proportion of them high-end e-bikes. The cost of claims is rising: according to the GDV, insurers most recently paid an average of €1,270 per stolen bike – more than three times as much as 20 years ago. There are two options for insurance cover in the event of theft in a public place: ‘Either your contents insurance includes a specific bicycle clause, or you have a separate e-bike policy,’ explains ERGO insurance expert Janna Poll. Important: most policies require the bike to be locked, often with requirements regarding the security rating of the lock. Many tariffs also have time limits or caps on the amount insured, so it’s worth checking the small print.

Burglary in a garage or bike storage room

If the bike is kept in the cellar or a private garage and someone breaks in, contents insurance generally applies even without an additional bicycle add-on. ‘In such a case, it reimburses what’s known as the replacement value,’ says the ERGO expert. This is usually based on the cost of buying a new, equivalent bike. To be on the safe side, it’s still worth taking a look at your policy conditions. A tip: ‘For expensive e-bikes, it can definitely make sense to adjust the sum insured under your contents policy,’ adds Janna Poll.

Mishaps and breakdowns

Uneven paving, a pothole or just a brief lapse in concentration – suddenly the e-bike ends up in a ditch. If the frame is bent or the control electronics are damaged, the bill can quickly mount up. And another question arises: how do I get home? E-bikes are much heavier than conventional bicycles, are not easily repaired at the roadside and often don’t fit in a car boot. If there’s no helping hand or suitable vehicle nearby, you can be stranded. It’s a real advantage if your insurance includes mobility cover. ‘This covers the cost of transporting the e-bike and, in some cases, even pays for an overnight stay in a hotel,’ says the ERGO expert. Depending on the policy, e-bike insurance also covers damage caused by accidents and falls – from reimbursement of repair costs through to total loss. Some tariffs also include cover for electronic damage caused by short circuits, overvoltage or moisture.

Battery fire in the cellar

Lithium-ion batteries are powerful – and that’s exactly what makes them dangerous if they become defective. If a fire breaks out, the high energy density means it can spread rapidly. In three out of four cases, the fire starts while the battery is being charged. Time and again, entire cellars or flats catch fire as a result. Three simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk: never leave the battery charging unattended, replace damaged or deformed batteries immediately, and only use approved original chargers. And if something does happen? ‘Damage to your own contents – such as furniture, bikes or other items stored in the cellar – is typically covered by contents insurance,’ explains Poll. Damage to the building itself falls under buildings insurance. If third parties make liability claims, personal liability insurance provides protection.

Accidents involving third parties

Despite all due care, accidents can happen in road traffic. If other road users are injured, that is particularly serious. In addition, the cyclist may face claims for compensation. Personal liability insurance covers injury to people and damage to property caused by cyclists – whether they are riding a pedelec (a bicycle with electric pedal assist up to 25 km/h) or a traditional bike. If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking: ‘A lack of cover can be financially ruinous in a worst-case scenario,’ warns the ERGO insurance expert.

Write-off after flooding or heavy rain

Extreme weather events with heavy rainfall and flooding are on the increase across the country. If the e-bike is stored in the cellar and it fills with water, the motor and electronics are usually a total loss. Standard contents or e-bike policies often do not cover such natural events; you need separate cover for natural hazards. ‘Anyone who regularly parks their bike in the cellar should check whether this protection is included in their policy,’ advises Janna Poll. With its “all risks” cover, an e-bike policy often offers worldwide comprehensive protection against damage and destruction beyond classic theft risks.