Cycle insurance: Broken locks & broken promises

Far be it from us to impugn our competitors - we just wish some of them were more upfront about the cycle insurance they sell. For example, some providers boast about replacing stolen bicycles on a new-for-old basis, but read the small print and you soon discover the promise falls short - if your bike is a few years old when stolen, you receive only a fraction of the insured value. We don't think that's right and it's the reason we've never devalued bikes in that way - no matter their age.

Another policy we frown on is the requirement that a broken cycle lock be produced in order to claim for theft. We know that in the real world, it's not uncommon for thieves to remove the lock and dispose of it. Why on earth should you be penalised for that?

We also understand that it's not desirable or practicable to carry more than one lock, so we don't require that quick release wheels or other components are locked - as long as the frame is secured correctly.

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We understand the ins and outs of cycle insurance security requirements can be a lot to remember when all you want to do is get out and ride, so take a quick look at our list of basic dos and don'ts.

DO: Lock your bike, through the frame, to an immovable object

Make sure your Sold Secure approved lock passes through the frame of the bicycle and an immovable object. This locking method is a policy requirement.

What counts as an 'immovable object'?

Our policy defines an immovable object as 'any solid object fixed in or on to concrete or stone, which is not capable of being undone, removed with, or lifted over/under the bicycle'. If you're in any doubt, we're always happy to answer your questions.

DON'T: 'Lock' your bike in a way that makes it easy to steal

The example above may seem exaggerated, but we do receive claims where bikes have been locked like this or have been stolen having been attached to ladders or lawnmowers.

DON'T: Lock your bicycle through the front wheel

If you fit your lock through the front wheel only, as illustrated above, you're making life easy for a thief.

DON'T: Use a security cable as your primary bike lock

The security cables sometimes included with a Sold Secure lock are NOT designed to be used as your primary lock and have not been approved as such.

NOTE: If you are using a cable lock as your primary lock, please ensure it is Sold Secure approved (very few are). If in doubt, you can contact Sold Secure directly on 01327 264 687

our lock requirements or read our cycle insurance policy in full.

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The ethical choice

The ETA was established in 1990 as an ethical provider of green, reliable travel services. Over 30 years on, we continue to offer cycle insurance , breakdown cover and mobility scooter insurance while putting concern for the environment at the heart of all we do.

The Good Shopping Guide judges us to be the UK's most ethical provider.