They took everything. My bike, my $300 specialized helmet clipped to the bars, my $200 Ortlieb panniers, and my $150 lights. I filed the claim for the total amount. The insurance check arrived… minus $600. They paid for the bike but said, “Accessories were not scheduled.”
Key Takeaways
- Definition of “Bike”: To an insurer, the “bike” is how it came out of the factory box. Pedals, lights, racks, and bags are “Accessories.”
- Sub-Limits: Many policies have a cap on accessories (e.g., $100 or $500 total) unless you declared them and paid extra premium.
- Apparel Coverage: Helmets and shoes are often considered “clothing,” not bike parts. You need specific “Riding Apparel” coverage.
- Receipts Required: You might have the bike receipt, but do you have the receipt for the lights you bought 2 years ago? Without them, no payout.
The “Why” (Unscheduled Property)
Insurers don’t know you added $1,000 of gear to a $2,000 bike unless you tell them.
“Optional Equipment coverage is limited to $500 unless increased by endorsement.”
The Investigation: Loading it Up
I checked the accessory clauses.
1. Velosurance
- Policy: You list the “Stated Value.”
- The Fix: You must include the value of accessories in the total insured amount. If the bike is $4,000 and gear is $1,000, insure it for $5,000.
2. Sundays Insurance
- Policy: Specific “Accessories” toggle.
- The Fix: You select an accessory limit ($500, $1k, etc.). This pays out on top of the bike value.
3. Homeowners
- Policy: Personal Property.
- The Fix: Accessories are just “personal property.” They are covered, but subject to the deductible. If only the panniers are stolen ($200), and deductible is $1,000, you get nothing.
Comparison Table
| Item | Category | Covered by Base Policy? |
| Stock Saddle | Bike Part | Yes |
| Upgraded Dropper Post | Modification | No (Unless value updated) |
| Helmet | Apparel | No (Needs Apparel add-on) |
| Panniers/Bags | Accessories | No (Needs Accessory add-on) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Audit Your Rig: Stand next to your bike. Calculate the cost of everything attached to it that didn’t come in the box. Lights, mounts, computer, bags, pedals.
- Update Your Value: Log into your insurance portal. Increase the “Insured Value” by that amount. It might cost $1/month more.
- Take a “Fit Check” Photo: Take a photo of the bike fully loaded. This proves you owned the bags and lights attached to it.
FAQ
Is my GPS computer covered?
Yes, as an accessory. But only if attached to the bike when stolen. If stolen from your pocket, it’s general personal property.
[IMAGE: Photo of a bike loaded with panniers, lights, and GPS, labeled with prices]