Simple, practical, and written for everyday riders in the Netherlands. Learn how to choose the right ebike verzekering / fietsverzekering, meet insurer requirements (EN15194, ART-lock, GPS), prevent claim refusals, and save money—whether you ride an ebike or a handcrafted luxury road bike.

Why Do I Have to Get Insurance?

1) Bike theft is common

The Netherlands is a cycling paradise—with more bikes than people—but theft is a persistent reality. Police and insurers report that hundreds of thousands of bikes disappear each year, and ebikes are prime targets because of their higher value. If you commute daily or park in busy city centers (Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam), the risk goes up.

Real stories from Dutch riders often sound the same: “I locked it for two minutes to grab coffee…and it was gone.” An insurance policy cannot stop thieves, but it can help you replace your bike and ride again within weeks.

2) Ebike repairs are expensive

Ebike technology—battery, motor, controller, sensors, display—adds comfort and speed but also cost. A battery replacement can run €600–€900; a mid-drive motor can cost €400–€700; wheels, brakes, and electronics add up quickly. Without insurance, you’re on the hook for all of it.

Types of Insurance for Electric Bikes

When people say ebike verzekering or fietsverzekering in the Netherlands, they typically mean one of these:

• Theft — Reimburses you if your ebike is stolen (usually requires an ART-approved lock and proof of proper locking).
• Damage — Covers accidental damage: falls, collisions, vandalism, or transport damage.
• Third-party liability — If you cause damage to others (people or property) while cycling.
• All-risk (complete) — Combines theft + damage (and sometimes liability). Peace of mind, higher premium.

Cost-saving tip: For most riders, Theft + Damage hits the sweet spot. Go full all-risk if your ebike is high-end, you ride daily in high-risk areas, or you simply want complete peace of mind.

What are the Requirements Before You Get Ebike Insurance?

Insurers want to lower risk and keep premiums fair. Expect these basic conditions:

CE & EN15194 compliance

Your ebike must meet EU rules: pedal assist only, max 25 km/h, motor ≤ 250W. (Speed-pedelecs up to 45 km/h follow separate rules.) If your ebike exceeds these limits without proper registration, claims can be denied.

Further reading: E-Bike Dyno Checkpoints in the EU — Safety Measure or Overreach?

ART-approved lock (ART-2+)

Most policies require at least ART-2. Choose a robust chain or frame lock and always secure the frame to a fixed object. For a compliant option, see ART-4000 Certified Ebike Chain Lock.

How to lock properly

Insurers often ask how the bike was locked. Locking only the front wheel is risky; thieves remove it in seconds. Lock the frame and a wheel to a rack or post. Use well-lit, monitored locations whenever possible.

GPS tracker discounts

Many insurers reward trackers with premium discounts or faster claims. A hidden tracker can recover a stolen bike within hours and proves that you take theft prevention seriously.

Practical Anti-Theft Tips That Insurers Like

• Use an ART-2 or higher lock and lock the frame to a fixed object.
• Add a wheel security cable or thru-axle locks to prevent parts theft.
• Install a GPS tracker (hidden). Some insurers offer discounts.
• Register the frame number and keep purchase receipts & photos in a digital folder.
• Store indoors at night; choose monitored racks in busy areas.

Which Insurance Company Costs Cheaper?

Premiums vary based on your postcode (theft risk), bike type/value, lock & GPS, and extras (worldwide cover, accessories). Two popular options:

Univé — predictable & comprehensive

• Theft cover (ART-lock required); new bike of equivalent value if stolen or irreparable (per policy terms).
• Damage cover for crashes, vandalism, and transport damage.
• Accessory add-ons (child seat, panniers, GPS, etc.).
• Optional worldwide cover if you travel with your bike.
• Easy online claim process for repair estimates and invoices.

Check pricing and terms directly at Univé Fietsverzekering.

LAKA — community pricing (can be lower)

• Monthly cost is based on total claims in the community: low claims → lower cost, busy months → slightly higher.
• Covers theft and accidental damage; fast online claims.
• Transparent breakdown of what you pay for.

See how their pricing works at LAKA Insurance.

Premium factors (table)

Factor	Why it changes your premium	What to do
Postcode / location	Higher urban theft risk = higher premium	Store indoors at night; use monitored parking when possible
Bike value & type	High-end or cargo/speed-pedelec → higher cost to replace	Consider agreed value and anti-theft extras
Locks & GPS	ART-2+ and trackers reduce risk	Show proof; ask for any discounts
Add-ons	Accessories, worldwide travel increase cover	Only add what you truly need
Excess / deductible	Higher excess → lower monthly premium	Balance monthly savings vs. claim cost

Handcrafted & Luxury (Non-Ebike) Owners: How to Approach Insurance

Handmade, atelier-level road bikes often cost even more than premium ebikes thanks to bespoke geometry, rare materials, and limited-run craft. Think niche European builders such as Dario Pegoretti, Passoni, Stelbel, Festka, Sarto, Pilot Cycles, Enigma, or J. Guillem.

Because of their high and unique value, premiums for these custom builds are usually higher than for mainstream ebikes. The smart move is to speak directly with the insurer or a broker, briefly describe your model and configuration, and ask for terms based on agreed value and your real usage. In many cases, the premium is negotiable—especially if you have good storage practices and can provide basic documentation. This keeps protection aligned with your bike while avoiding extras you don’t need.

What If My Bike Gets Stolen or Damaged?

If stolen

1. Report to police immediately and file a diefstal aangifte fiets. Keep the report number.
2. Submit your claim with proof of ART-lock usage (photos, lock receipt if available) and your purchase receipts.
3. Next steps: the insurer reviews your documents. If approved, you’ll select a replacement bike or receive settlement per your policy.

If damaged

Most Dutch ebike policies cover accidents, vandalism, storm damage, and transport damage. Wear and tear (e.g., old tires, battery capacity loss) is not covered. Here’s a quick view:

Situation	Usually covered?	Typical example
Crash / fall / collision	✅ Yes	Broken display, bent wheel, cracked frame (per policy)
Vandalism	✅ Yes	Scratches, cut cables, smashed lights
Storm damage	✅ Yes	Tree branch hits bike; blown over with visible damage
Transport damage	✅ Yes	Bike shifts in car rack and cracks a part
Wear & tear	❌ No	Old battery capacity loss, worn tires/chains

How to claim repairs? Upload clear photos and a repair quote/invoice from a recognized shop to your insurer’s portal. Depending on your policy, the insurer pays the shop directly or reimburses you after payment.

Beware: When an Insurer May Refuse to Pay

• No ART-approved lock or the bike was not locked to a fixed object when required.
• Cannot provide a police theft report or adequate proof of ownership.
• Ebike was modified to exceed 25 km/h (without proper registration for speed-pedelec).
• Commercial use not disclosed (e.g., courier/delivery) where the policy excludes it.
• Fraud or inconsistent information during the claim.

Company Bicycle Scheme: Buy or Lease a Company Bike

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Have Bicycle Insurance in the Netherlands?

Tell us what worked for you in the comments: which cover did you choose (theft, damage, all-risk), and how was your claim experience?