E-bikes differ in the way they work and that implies different insurance conditions. In terms of insurance obligations, you can distinguish between two types of e-bikes:
- Electrically assisted bikes;
- Bikes with starting assistance or with garage assistance.
Electrically assisted bikes
The electric power assist turns on after a few turns of the pedal and turns off if the person does not pedal.
These bikes are not subject to compulsory car insurance. Liability for this type of bike can be covered by civil liability family/private life insurance.
Bikes with starting assistance or with garage assistance
A bike with power assistance is activated as soon as the pedal is pressed. Once moving, the bike can be ridden without the person pedalling.
A bike with garage assistance allows operation over a few meters.
The obligation to take out civil liability car insurance for this type of bike depends on its maximum speed and its maximum mass (including the weight of the battery):
- If this type of bike is operated by a mechanical force with a maximum design speed not exceeding 6 km/h and a maximum mass not exceeding 100 kg, there is no insurance obligation. Liability for this type of bike can be covered by civil liability family/private life insurance.
- If this type of bike is operated by a mechanical force with a maximum design speed exceeding 6 km/h, but not exceeding 25 km/h and a maximum mass not exceeding 25 kg, there is also no insurance obligation. Liability for this type of bike can be covered by civil liability family/private life insurance.
Consequently, if the cumulative maximum speed and maximum mass conditions, which must be assessed on a case-by-case basis, are not met, a civil liability car insurance policy must be taken out. Not having insurance for this type of e-bike can have serious consequences.