Insurance for electrified bicycles: the government sidesteps the issue

The regulatory context: a clear framework

Standard NF EN 15194 defines the main criteria for an electrically-assisted cycle to remain a cycle: assistance is limited to 25 km/h and must be switched off as soon as the cyclist stops pedaling, and the maximum rated motor power must not exceed 0.25 KW (250 watts).

Regulation (EU) 168/2013 imposes a distinction of 250 Watts for the power of the electric pedal-assist motor. Above this value, the bike, or the bike converted with an electric assistance kit, falls within the scope of motorized bicycles (category L1e-A), assimilated to mopeds in the Highway Code.

In his question to the government, Jérôme Nury points out that these kits enable many French people to transform their bicycle into an environmentally-friendly means of transport, suitable for everyday commuting, and representing a cost-effective alternative to the purchase of a new, often much more expensive VAE.

The insurance challenge: an area of uncertainty

Some insurers refuse to cover individuals who have converted their bike to an electrically-assisted bicycle using an approved kit, even when the modification strictly complies with current standards. This refusal to insure puts users in an uncertain legal and financial situation.

This problem is all the more worrying as it particularly affects people living in rural or peri-urban areas, where cycling is an essential mode of transport to make up for the lack of public transport.

The government’s response: between clarification and evasion

The official response from the Ministry of Transport, published on May 20, 2025, sheds some important light on the current regulatory framework.

The use of electrically-assisted bicycles is growing and contributing to the growth of cycling in France, by making it more accessible to people who don’t want or can’t use a conventional bicycle.

As far as insurance is concerned, it’s not compulsory to be insured when riding an electrically-assisted bike. However, some bikes may be covered by a property insurance policy. In this case, the bike is covered only up to its declared value.

The government also specifies that if the insured wishes to cover his or her electrification kit, he or she will have to declare a change to his or her insurer, who will be able to revise the premium amount upwards if necessary.

But the government’s response sidesteps the central issue: the government has no intention of regulating electrification kits.

A persistent legal vacuum

The ministerial response does not directly address the question of the legitimacy of insurance refusals for electrified bicycles that comply with standards. It confirms that a compliant kit legally transforms a bike into an EAB, but does not comment on the discriminatory practices of certain insurers.

For electrically-assisted bicycles (EABs), insurance is not compulsory, as they fall into the category of cycles. However, as with conventional bicycles, it is preferable to have at least third-party liability insurance.

We strongly recommend that you take out civil liability insurance (often included in comprehensive home insurance policies) to cover you in the event of damage caused to others.

Unjustified disparity in treatment

The paradox is striking: an electric bike complying with the NF EN 15194 standard must have a motor with a rated output of 250 watts, its assistance is triggered when the rider starts pedaling, and the maximum speed is 25 km/h. Whether factory-equipped or converted via an approved kit, the technical result is identical.

Some local authorities recognize this equivalence: it’s a solution recognized by major cities like Paris, Lyon and Grenoble, which subsidize buyers of conversions under the same conditions as for new-builds.

Impact on the ecological transition

This situation creates a paradox in ecological transition policies. This development is fully in line with the transport decarbonization and public health policy supported by the 2023-2027 cycling and walking plan.

Electrification kits are part of a circular economy approach, giving a second life to existing bikes, thus avoiding the production of new electric bikes. This approach meets current environmental challenges, but insurance uncertainties may discourage individuals from taking this route.

Towards a necessary clarification

MP Jérôme Nury has asked for details on the prospects for dialogue with industry players to establish a clear regulatory framework, guaranteeing both the safety of private individuals with good insurance coverage and access to mobility solutions suited to all budgets.

Individuals wishing to equip their bike with an electrification kit should check with a professional about the quality and compatibility of the equipment, particularly with regard to the power of the electric pedal-assist motor.

Conclusion

Jérôme Nury’s parliamentary question reveals a worrying legal vacuum that penalizes citizen innovation and the circular economy. While the government is encouraging the development of electric bikes as part of its decarbonization policy, the lack of clarification on insurance practices is creating legal uncertainty for users of approved electrification kits.

This situation calls for regulatory changes to ensure equal treatment for all standard-compliant electrically-assisted bicycles, regardless of their origin – whether factory-electrified or converted via approved kits. This is the only way to remove the obstacles to the adoption of these sustainable mobility solutions.

Important note: This article presents a journalistic analysis of the parliamentary question and regulatory issues. We are not specialists in insurance law and encourage readers to consult qualified professionals for any legal questions specific to their situation.

Sources

1. Written question no. 3649 by Mr Jérôme Nury, National Assembly, February 4, 2025, reply published May 20, 2025
2. AFNOR Normalisation, “Cycles à assistance électrique EPAC”, July 7, 2022
3. Velobecane, “Electric bikes and legislation: what rules do you need to know?”
4. Service Public, “Do you have to take out insurance when riding an electric bike or scooter?”, checked on November 13, 2025
5. MAIF, “Is electric bike insurance compulsory?”, January 25, 2024
6. Centaur Bike, “What is the current law or standard regarding electric bikes and electrification?”