After a crash, my bike was in the shop waiting for a backordered motor part from Germany. I rely on my bike to commute. I spent $400 renting a Lime bike and taking Ubers over three weeks. I submitted the receipts to my insurance. They paid for the bike repair but rejected the Uber receipts.
Key Takeaways
- Loss of Use: This is standard in auto insurance (paying for a rental car), but rare in bicycle insurance.
- The Commuter Gap: If you don’t own a car and the bike is your primary vehicle, a theft or crash leaves you stranded.
- Specific Endorsements: Some premium e-bike policies allow you to add “Substitute Bike Rental” coverage, but you have to ask for it.
- Policy Limits: Even if covered, it’s usually capped (e.g., $25/day for max 10 days).
The “Why” (Expense Reimbursement)
Standard property insurance covers the asset, not the inconvenience.
“We cover direct physical loss to the property… We do not cover additional living expenses or loss of use.”
The Investigation: Who keeps you moving?
I checked the “Loss of Use” clauses.
1. Velosurance
- Feature: No. They generally do not cover rental reimbursement for a bike being in the shop.
2. Laka (UK/Europe Model)
- Feature: Yes. Some of their packages include a loaner bike or credit for rentals.
3. Sundays Insurance
- Feature: Yes (Optional). They have a reimbursement option for rental fees while your bike is being repaired or replaced after a covered loss.
Comparison Table
| Carrier | Rental Reimbursement? | Limit |
| Homeowners | NO | N/A |
| Velosurance | NO | N/A |
| Sundays / Oyster | Maybe (Check Policy) | ~$250 total |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Ask the Shop for a Loaner: In 2026, many high-end e-bike dealers offer loaner fleets for customers waiting on warranty work. This is your best bet.
- Check Your Warranty: Some manufacturers (like Trek or Specialized) might cover a loaner if the part delay is their fault (e.g., motor recall).
- Self-Insure: Keep a cheap acoustic bike or a scooter as a backup. Don’t rely on insurance for daily mobility continuity.
FAQ
Does it cover Uber/Lyft costs?
Almost never. It specifically covers “Substitute Bicycle Rental.”
[IMAGE: Screenshot of a policy section titled “Additional Coverages: Rental Reimbursement”]