Bike insurance in the Netherlands
There is nothing more Dutch then cycling. The Netherlands is designed for cycling, with great bike lanes passing historic streets and beautiful landscapes. For big cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht and Haarlem there is no better way to get around then on your bike. But 500.000 bikes a year get stolen. So how to feel safe?
We explore in this section
Bike insurance costs in the Netherlands
Bike insurance in the Netherlands typically costs between €3 and €10 per month for a regular city bike, depending on factors like the bike’s value, how often it’s used, and where it’s parked. Basic theft-only coverage can start as low as €2.27 per month. E-bikes are more expensive to insure, with premiums usually ranging from €5 to €15 per month, and the national average for e-bike insurance is around €14 per month.
Univé
Offers reimbursement of 100% purchase value for the first 3 years in theft/total-loss, then declining percentages in later years.
Inshared
Theft covered at 100% of purchase value in first 3 years, 75% in year 4 etc; and no deductible (eigen risico) applies.
Centraal Beheer
Compensation for theft equals purchase or current value if the bike was locked with an approved ART2 lock; deductible options include €25 standard, higher if chosen.
Laka
Covers theft and damage (including worldwide) under a collective cost-sharing model, with no standard deductible or depreciation.
FietsZeker
Covers theft and damage for a variety of bikes (including city/e-bike); the policy ensures you show proof of purchase value; deductible or depreciation terms vary by age/coverage.Do i need a bike insurance in the Netherlands?
No, you don't need a Bike insurance in the Netherlands. It's not mandatory like for example a Car insurance. But every year 500.000 bikes get stolen in the Netherlands even with two locks. Besides from protecting you against your bike getting stolen, you can also insure yourself against damage and third-party liability.
What types of Bike Insurance are there?
Theft insurance:
- Coverage: This type of insurance protects you in case your bike is stolen. It typically covers the cost of replacing the bike or, in some cases, offers a reimbursement.
- Conditions: To claim theft insurance, you usually need to secure your bike with a certified lock, and you may need to report the theft to the police.
Damage insurance:
- Coverage: If your bike sustains damage due to an accident, collision, or other unforeseen circumstances, this insurance will cover the repair or replacement costs.
- Conditions: It's crucial to understand the terms and conditions, including any deductibles or limitations on coverage.
Third-party liability insurance:
- Coverage: In the event that you accidentally damage someone else's property or injure another person while cycling, this insurance covers the associated costs.
- Conditions: Make sure to check the coverage limits and any specific conditions related to liability claims.
Choosing the right insurance:
- Evaluate your needs: Consider how and where you plan to use your bike. If you're frequently commuting in a busy city, theft insurance might be a priority. For those who enjoy weekend rides in the countryside, damage insurance could be more relevant.
- Compare policies: Take the time to explore different insurance providers and policies. Look for comprehensive coverage that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences. Check the insurers below.
- Understand the fine print: Read the policy details carefully. Be aware of any exclusions, deductibles, or specific conditions you must adhere to in order to make a successful claim.
Univé Bike Insurance for Expats
Did you know that in the Netherlands, there are more bicycles (23 million) than people (17 million)? Univé's bike insurance is rated as the best by the Consumers' Association. The insurance provides coverage for a range of bicycles, including city bikes, e-bikes, and racing bikes.
Customize your bike insurance with Univé to suit your needs. The basic coverage ensures protection against theft and damages. Opt for additional coverage options, where you can choose to be insured for roadside assistance (Pechhulp) and accident payment (Ongevallendekking). The fee starts at only €2.27 per month. Ride confidently and secure with Univé, tailored for expats like you!
Types of bikes you can insure in the Netherlands
Insurers look at coverage to determine price but also what type of bike you have. This because the traditional bike is loosing ground rapidly in the Netherlands. When i grew up the opa en oma fiets were popular, now it's the elecric bike. Here are some of the types we have now.
City bike Insurance (stadsfiets)
The traditional Dutch city bike is the most common type insured. Normally a bike for daily commuting and your arrands. Insurance is mainly focused on theft, since city bikes are often parked outdoors and are easy targets. Basic theft-only policies start from just a few euros per month, with the option to expand to all-risk cover that also includes vandalism or accident damage.
Electric bike Insurance (e-bike)
E-bikes are now the fastest-growing bike type in the Netherlands. Because they’re more valuable and attractive to thieves, e-bike insurance is strongly recommended. Coverage usually includes theft, damage, and battery protection. Monthly premiums range between €5 and €15 depending on the bike’s value and chosen coverage.
Cargo bike Insurance (bakfiets)
Cargo bikes are a familiar sight in Dutch cities now, often used for transporting the kids or when you bought heavily in the supermarket. Because they are expensive and popular by thieves, it is wise to take a insurance. Policies generally include theft and damage, sometimes even coverage for accessories like rain covers or boxes. Premiums tend to be higher, from roughly €8 to €20 per month.
Racing bike Insurance (racefiets)
For road cyclists and sports riders, race bike insurance offers all-risk coverage against theft and accidental damage — both during rides and while in transport. These bikes can easily cost thousands of euros, so insurers often ask for photo documentation and approved locks. Coverage may also include crashes during training or events, depending on the policy.
Mountain bike Insurance
Mountain bikes face a higher risk of impact or trail damage. Insurance often mirrors racing bike policies but includes protection for off-road use and transport to trails or events. Theft protection is key, since these bikes are also popular among thieves.
Children’s bike Insurance
Cheaper children’s bikes are often included under the family’s home contents insurance, but for high-value models, separate theft coverage can be added. Most insurers offer flexible short-term contracts, useful while children outgrow their bikes quickly.
How to file a Bike Insurance Claim in the Netherlands
If your bike is stolen or damaged, filing a claim with your Dutch insurer is usually straightforward, but there are a few important steps to follow carefully.
Always keep your purchase receipt, frame number and lock certificate safe because they’re essential for any claim.
If you move or change address, inform your insurer too; theft risk (and thus your coverage) can depend on location.
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Report the theft or damage immediately.
In case of theft, go to the police (“aangifte doen”) within 24–48 hours and get a formal police report. You can often do this online via politie.nl. Most insurers require this report number for your claim. -
Notify your insurer as soon as possible.
Log in to your insurer’s online portal or call their claims department. You’ll need your policy number, purchase invoice, and details about what happened. -
Provide proof of ownership and security.
You’ll usually have to show the original purchase receipt and keys from your certified ART-approved lock (most insurers require at least two keys).
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Submit photos or supporting documents.
For damage claims, insurers may ask for photos of the damage or a repair quote from a registered bike shop. -
Assessment and compensation.
The insurer reviews your claim — often within a few working days. If approved, you’ll receive compensation based on your coverage type:-
Theft cover: full purchase value (usually within first 1–3 years) or a depreciated amount.
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Damage cover: reimbursement of repair costs or replacement value if the bike is a total loss.
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Replacement or repair.
Some insurers work directly with partner bike shops to repair or replace your bike quickly, often without you having to advance the costs.
Recommended insurers
Centraal Beheer
Centraal Beheer is one of the biggest insurance companies in the Netherlands with insurances for your bike and much more.
Inshared
InShared was founded in 2009 as an online insurer and became one of the most successful insurers in the online market. The go-to market strategy of online differs a lot from the traditional channels, and within this InShared made some clear choices.
Laka
Laka uses a people-powered insurance subscription to make insurance fair, not fixed.
Each months claims are spread amongst a collective of cyclists like you, so your monthly bill varies up to a guaranteed cap.
FietsZeker
FietsZeker is the only Dutch specialised (e-)bike insurance company. Due to collaborations with large international insurers (like Allianz and Chubb), FietsZeker offers the best insurance rate available in the market. FietsZeker offers flexible payment terms: premiums can be paid on a monthly, annual or even 3-yearly basis.
Univé
Univé is a cooperative insurance company in the Netherlands. Univé presents itself as a nonprofit insurer, to express that making profit is not important and therefore has cheaper products.