Cargo bikes are being hailed as the future of urban transportation. In congested cities, cyclists are using them to carry groceries, pets, and even their children around. Imagine breezing past traffic jams and parking hassles while reducing your carbon footprint as you go
All this extra utility comes at a premium though as cargo bikes are often expensive. That’s why we recommend insuring your cargo bike so that you’re covered in case anything goes wrong.
Here’s all you need to know.
Cargo bikes have truly revolutionized the way city folk do their grocery shopping. They provide a fantastic option for people who want to haul large grocery loads without relying on a car on the bus. And the benefits go way beyond just saving money on fuel and a bus pass – they also help reduce traffic congestion.
Cargo bikes come equipped with specialized panniers, crates, or bags specifically designed to securely carry groceries, some even have built-in straps and insulation to keep your food fresh. They’re very adaptable bikes too, with many people choosing to use their cargo bikes in winter as well.
But that’s not all. Cargo bikes are also a safe and enjoyable way for families to travel together. With different configurations available, like longtails and box bikes, they can comfortably accommodate multiple children. Parents can leisurely bring their kids to school, parks, and other activities without the hassle of car seats and traffic.
Plus, many cargo bike models have rain covers and safety harnesses to keep children protected from the elements and ensure that they’re as safe as possible during winter cycling.
And businesses? Well, they’ve caught on to the incredible efficiency and environmental benefits of cargo bikes for deliveries. Especially for those last-mile logistics, cargo bikes are an absolute game-changer.
They allow companies to easily and quickly reach customers in densely populated urban areas. Food delivery services, in particular, have fully embraced the power of cargo bikes. With cargo bikes, they can make quick and sustainable deliveries like never before.
Once you start using a cargo bike, they can become hard to live without and they’re also worth a lot of money, so bike thieves target them when they can. That’s why a lot of cargo bike owners insure their bikes. It acts as a safety net, protecting you from a substantial financial setback if your cargo bike gets stolen.
Plus, it covers damages from accidents like collisions or falls and even unexpected events like vandalism. Repair costs can quickly add up, but with insurance, you can get your cargo bike fixed or replaced without having to dip into your savings.
As cargo bike owners, we know how versatile and beneficial these bikes are for our lifestyles. And having insurance means we can enjoy our rides without constantly thinking about what might happen.
Whether we’re running errands, commuting to work, or having leisurely rides with our family, having that peace of mind is priceless – especially when it comes to winter biking and the slippery conditions that winter brings.
Accidents can happen to even the most cautious cyclists, but with cargo bike insurance, we’ve got a financial safety net to support us when we need it the most.
There are three main types of bicycle insurance :
Theft coverage is there to cover the cost of replacing your cargo bike if it ever gets stolen. It’s like having comprehensive coverage but without the liability part. So, if you accidentally cause harm to someone or their property while riding your cargo bike, you won’t have that financial protection.
Accidental damage coverage comes to the rescue when your cargo bike gets damaged in an accident. Whether it’s from a crash from winter cycling in the snow or vandalism while locked up outside the supermarket, this coverage will take care of the repair or replacement costs.
Liability coverage is the most basic type of cargo bike insurance available. It’s all about protecting you financially if you end up being responsible for injuring someone or damaging their property while riding your cargo bike. But remember, it doesn’t cover theft or accidental damage unless you combine it with other coverage.
Laka’s cargo bike insurance is specially designed to provide comprehensive coverage for cargo bikes, e-cargo bikes, batteries, and accessories. It’s all about keeping your bike safe from theft, accidental damage, and loss.
Laka protects you in case your cargo bike gets stolen, whether it happens at home or when you’re out and about. They recommend using a Sold Secure Gold Rated Lock or an even higher-rated lock to ensure coverage. And hey, accidents happen, but with Laka, you’re protected against accidental damage to both your cargo bike and its accessories. Whether it’s a traffic mishap or damage during transit by a third party, you’ll be covered.
Laka operates on a collective model where all Laka members contribute monthly. That means your monthly contribution can vary based on the overall claims made, but here’s the exciting part: you’re only paying for the shared risk with your fellow Laka members. No excessive charges, no hidden fees.
Filing a claim with Laka is hassle-free too. They don’t impose any excess charges, so you won’t have to worry about out-of-pocket expenses. Flexible payments are easy as you can choose from monthly or annual options. You can also cancel your coverage anytime without incurring any penalties.
Cargo bike insurance with Laka starts at as little as €7 per month, which is only a small fraction of the cost of a cargo bike and worth the investment if you ask us. It guarantees peace of mind and gives you so many options if something does unfortunately go wrong.
If you’re concerned about the price of bike insurance, consider renting out your cargo bike with us for extra income. Just a few rentals per year are more than enough to cover the cost of your insurance. And there’s no need to pay for insurance during the rentals, every bike rented through ListNRide is fully covered in the EEA.
Bike-to-work schemes like Jobrad in Germany not only allow you to lease a bike through your employer but can sometimes also include bike coverage as well. This differs from country to country, so speak with your employers to find out what is available to you.
Cargo bike insurance is a great backup if something does go wrong with your bike, but ideally, we’d like to not have our bike stolen in the first place. Here are a few tips on how to keep your cargo bike safe.
Opt for robust options like U-locks or heavy-duty chain locks made from durable materials like hardened steel. In the world of cycling, it’s recommended to allocate about 10% of your bike’s cost towards a lock. Don’t forget to choose a lock with a reputable security rating, as not locking your bike or using a quality lock may void your insurance if stolen.
When it comes to locking your cargo bike, thread the lock through the frame and wheels if possible. This extra step prevents thieves from easily removing components or making away with your cargo bike’s parts. Always secure your bike to a fixed and immovable object, like a sturdy bike rack, post, or ground anchor.
When parking your cargo bike, aim for well-lit locations with a steady flow of foot traffic. Thieves are less likely to attempt theft in areas where they can be easily seen. If possible, use designated bike parking areas or secure bike storage facilities. These areas are sometimes covered by security cameras – another deterrent for would-be thieves.
Consider adding a GPS tracking device to your cargo bike, like an AirTag or Tile. These handy devices help you locate your bike if it’s stolen. Remember to regularly check the GPS tracker’s battery and signal strength as well.
When leaving your cargo bike unattended, be sure to remove expensive items from the cargo box. Please don’t leave bags, electronic devices, and other valuables inside when you’re not there. An empty cargo box is much less attractive to thieves. If you have to temporarily leave items in the cargo box, use covers or blankets to hide them.
Cargo bikes are a total game changer. The levels of mobility and usability are unmatched and have made many people swap their city cars for cargo bikes. But they come with high price tags, so it just makes sense to insure them in case of accidents or theft. If you’re not convinced about having your own cargo bike, you can also hire one from ListNRide.
If you’re new to the world of cargo bikes and want to try before you buy, there are plenty for rent on our website.
Enjoy experiencing the city in a brand new way!
