Cycleplan

Cycleplan, specialist bicycle insurance in the UK

Cycleplan is a cycling insurance brand marketed by Ripe Insurance Services Limited. Its activity focuses on arranging policies for bicycles and cycling, with cover tailored to different types of user and vehicle. The company presents itself as a specialist in this segment and operates in the UK market.

Types of bicycle covered

Cycleplan's range covers road bikes, electric bikes, mountain bikes, BMX, hybrid, folding and urban or commuting bikes. It also includes cover for electric scooters. This variety allows the policy to be adjusted to the actual use of each vehicle, from daily commuting to work to sporting use.

Main covers

The policies marketed include protection against theft and accidental damage to the bicycle up to £30,000, as well as accessories up to £1,000. Public liability reaches £5 million and personal accident covers dental emergencies, hospitalisation and physiotherapy up to £50,000. Loss of earnings up to £750 per week, hire of a replacement bicycle up to £1,000, non-refundable competition fees up to £250 and taxi expenses after an accident up to £50 are also contemplated.

Competitive use cover extends the usual protection when the insured participates in a competition, and the multi-trip option allows European or worldwide cover to be selected for a maximum of 45 days per trip. For households with several bicycles, there is a joint policy with a 10% discount on the premium, excluding the highest-value bicycle.

What is not covered

The insurer's information states that claims without proof of ownership are not accepted, nor thefts where security requirements have not been met. Nor is the use of the bicycle for commercial or business purposes covered, except commuting to work, nor public liability for under-16s. Unattended bicycles must be secured to an immovable object with a Sold Secure-rated or Thatcham-approved lock.

Cyclist profiles served

Cycleplan targets its products at those who use the bicycle to commute to work, owners of e-bikes and high-value bicycles, families with several bicycles and participants in amateur events, sportives and charity rides. The company states that it also covers theft at the workplace or at train stations, as well as damage on mountain routes or during trips abroad.

Prices and relationship with home insurance

According to data published by the company, its customers pay an average of £79 per year for equipment cover for bicycles valued at £3,000 and public liability of £1 million. The amount may vary depending on the value of the bicycle, the level of cover and the add-ons taken out. Cycleplan argues that home insurance does not always offer the same protection when the bicycle is used outside the home, especially against theft or damage away from home.

Recognitions and partnerships

The company presents itself as a recognised specialist in cycling insurance and mentions a special mention in 2024 at the Insurance Choice Awards, in the category of best bicycle insurance provider. Since 2021 it has collaborated with retailers Halfords and Tredz to offer additional protection to those who buy a new bicycle. Its underwriting manager, Sean Carney, appears as an expert in the field on the website.