The biggest increases have been in the Tyne area and Yorkshire, the starting point of last year’s Tour de France, which have seen take up of additional bike insurance jump by 158% and 113% respectively over the past five years. The highest number of policies is in the South and South East of England, where more than 9000 were taken out last year.
The increase in the take up of cycle insurance is a result both of the growing popularity of cycling and the continued increase in the amount spent on bikes. Since 2012, the average amount people spend on a bike has risen from £206 to £233*. At the same time there has been a year-on-year increase in levels of theft. Currently, more than 376,000 bicycles are stolen every year**.
As some of the world’s best female cyclists have been in the UK competing in The Aviva’s Women’s Tour – won by Lisa Brennauer, with Britain’s Hannah Barnes winning the fifth stage - it is no wonder cycling is becoming more popular. The Aviva Women’s Tour has the highest ranking a women’s stage race can achieve and has seen the likes of Olympic Gold medallist Dani King taking part. Aviva will also be sponsoring the elite men’s race, the Aviva Tour of Britain, in September.
Heather Smith, Marketing Director at Aviva said: “The success of cycling in the UK has been both at an elite level - from athletes such as Sir Chris Hoy, Sir Bradley Wiggins and Victoria Pendleton CBE - but also at a grassroots level as people have been inspired to get out on their bikes. This is great to see, as cycling is a sport that can bring lasting health and wellbeing benefits. Therefore, as we gear up for The Aviva Women’s Tour 2015, we hope even more people will be inspired to take part – and if they are, to invest in the right equipment and the appropriate insurance to protect it.
“Just as you take the time to choose the correct clothes and kit, it is important to ensure your bikes and accessories are covered against theft, accidental damage or causing injury or damage to another person. This will then mean you can relax and enjoy your hobby with the confidence that your pride and joy is protected.”
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