Whether you’re planning an early-season training camp in the south of Spain, or looking to tame some of the Tour’s most iconic climbs while catching a glimpse of the pro peloton, travelling abroad with your bike in tow opens huge opportunities.
But, in addition to a solid bike box or bike bag, sport-specific sun screen and some all-important cycling sunglasses, it might be worth considering cycling insurance for your next two-wheel trip.
From protection against theft and personal accident cover that might not always be covered by a general travel insurance policy (be sure to check your policy), a specialist cycling insurance plan can provide you with peace of mind both at home and overseas.
Plus, with The Insurance Emporium’s bicycle-specific policies starting at only £3.01 per month, you may be able to get you and your bike covered for less than a coffee and slice of cake at a mid-ride cafe stop.
Here are five reasons why it might be worth considering a cycling-specific policy when planning your next trip.
1. Theft
There’s nothing more galling than having your pride and joy stolen, but it’s an unfortunate reality of bike ownership.
While a reputable bike lock is the best first line of defence (a 'Sold Secure' bike lock is also a requirement for The Insurance Emporium’s policies), thieves are notoriously good at overcoming even the most durable shackles.
Bicycle insurance is a great failsafe if you do suffer the misfortune of having your bike stolen.
The Insurance Emporium has four tiers of coverage, three of which are extended worldwide for theft, loss and accidental damage:
- White jersey: 65 days’ worldwide cover
- Green jersey: 80 days’ worldwide cover
- Polka dot jersey: 90 days’ worldwide cover
Whichever one you opt for, you could be covered for up to £50,000 for your bike collection – and £10,000 per individual bike.
You may also be eligible for up to four weeks of bike hire while yours is being replaced after a theft, meaning you can carry on with your cycling trip and not have your plans derailed:
- White jersey: up to £375 per week
- Green jersey: up to £450 per week
- Polka dot jersey: up to £500 per week
2. Accidental damage, including to kit
While theft can be devastating, accidental damage can be equally disastrous – particularly if you’re left with an irreparable bike.
Unfortunately, travelling with your steed increases the chances of accidental damage – arriving at your destination to find a cracked carbon fibre frame or buckled wheel isn’t the best way to start a cycling holiday.
The Insurance Emporium’s bike policies could cover you for the replacement or repair of your bike. It extends to kit too, meaning clothing, technology such as a GPS head unit, and attachments, such as lights.
Again, this is on a sliding scale:
- White jersey: up to £2,000
- Green jersey: up to £3,750
- Polka dot jersey: up to £5,000
3. Dental treatment
Your gnashers are a particularly vulnerable spot if you come off your bike. With no protection unless you’re wearing a full-face helmet, they can bear the full brunt of a crash – particularly if you go over the handlebar.
The Insurance Emporium understands this risk, and offers cover for bodily injury to your mouth and/or teeth as part of its bicycle policies.
This can help to cover some or all of the costs of procedures such as X-rays, extractions, fillings and bondings.
- White jersey: up to £1,000
- Green jersey: up to £1,250
- Polka dot jersey: up to £1,500
4. Personal accident cover
Should the unfortunate happen and you injure yourself while riding or pushing your bike, The Insurance Emporium’s policies have you covered with the personal accident benefit for:
- Death
- Total permanent disablement (disablement lasting 365 days that prevents you from continuing in your studies or from following any and every occupation)
- Loss of hearing, sight, or limbs
Policies can cover payouts ranging from £30,000 to £50,000:
- White jersey: up to £30,000
- Green jersey: up to £40,000
- Polka dot jersey: up to £50,000
5. Competitive use and withdrawing from an event
All of the above is a great starting point if you’re embarking on a cycling holiday, but The Insurance Emporium also has an extra level of cover available if you’re travelling overseas or staying in the UK to compete.
Opting for this benefit means you could be covered against theft, accidental damage, personal accident, and dental treatment, and more when racing, enabling you to focus solely on your performance.
And in the unfortunate event that you have to withdraw from a Gran Fondo, sportive or race due to a sudden, unexpected and unforeseeable injury, another optional benefit is available that can cover non-refundable fees up to £1,000 – providing a silver lining to any season-disrupting injury.
