Accessories Cover In Bike Insurance: What’s Included and What’s Not

To protect your aftermarket upgrades, ensure they are covered under your bike insurance policy by opting for an accessories add-on cover.

You’ve just installed brand-new LED headlights on your bike and added sleek crash guards that make it look like a beast on the road. Riding through the city, heads turn, and you feel a sense of pride in your upgraded ride. But as you park your bike outside a café, you can’t help but wonder: What if someone scratches it or, worse, steals these newly installed accessories? Does your bike insurance cover these extras, or would you have to bear the cost yourself? This article answers all your questions.

Understanding Standard Bike Insurance Coverage

Bike insurance is generally classified into two types:

1. Third-Party Liability Cover:

This provides financial protection if you injure another motorist or pedestrian or damage their property.

2. Comprehensive Cover:

A comprehensive bike insurance policy offers more extensive protection. It not only covers third-party liabilities but also provides coverage for damages to your own bike due to fire, natural disasters, accidents, or theft. Additionally, it includes personal accident cover, which takes care of medical expenses if the rider sustains injuries in an accident.

While a comprehensive policy covers factory-fitted parts, it doesn’t automatically include aftermarket accessories.

What Are Accessories in Bike Insurance?

Accessories in two-wheelers are classified into two main categories:

• Electrical Accessories:
  These include enhancements like LED lights, music systems, GPS devices, and other electronic additions that improve the bike’s functionality or appearance.
• Non-Electrical Accessories:
  These comprise modifications such as custom seats, alloy wheels, saddlebags, or crash guards. These upgrades are primarily for aesthetics, safety, or utility.

Does Your Insurance Cover Accessories?

The short answer is no-your standard comprehensive bike insurance plan only covers factory-fitted parts. If you have installed aftermarket accessories, you’ll need to purchase an accessories add-on cover to protect them.

Add-On Covers for Accessories:
Add-ons, also known as riders, can be purchased when you buy or renew your bike insurance policy for an additional premium. However, if you have only a third-party liability policy, you won’t be eligible to add accessories coverage or any other add-ons.

Illegal Modifications Not Covered

It’s important to note that certain modifications are considered illegal in India. If you install these, your insurer won’t cover them, and the Regional Transport Office (RTO) may impose heavy fines. Examples of illegal modifications include:

• Loud exhaust systems designed to amplify engine noise or power.
• Adding extra wheels or sidecars to increase seating capacity or stability.
• Oversized tyres, such as extra-wide or fat tyres.
• Changes to the bike’s braking system, seating capacity, or engine.

How to Claim for Accessories

If you have an accessories add-on cover and need to raise a claim, follow these steps:

1. Notify Your Insurer:
Contact your insurer immediately after the damage or loss occurs. Most insurers offer a 24/7 helpline for assistance.

2. Submit a Claim Form:
Provide a completed claim form along with evidence of the incident, such as an FIR for theft or photographs of the damage. Include invoices for the accessories.

3. Inspection by the Insurer:
Your insurer may inspect your bike to assess the damage or verify the claim.

4. Approval and Reimbursement:
Once approved, the insurer will either reimburse you for the accessories or arrange for repairs or replacements.

Tips to Protect Aftermarket Accessories

To minimise the risk of theft or damage and reduce the need to raise a claim, follow these tips:

• Park Securely: Always park your bike in well-lit, secure areas, preferably under CCTV surveillance.
• Install an Alarm System: Fit your bike with an alarm that triggers a loud sound if tampered with. Modern systems can even send alerts to your phone.
• Use a GPS Tracker: A GPS tracker allows you to monitor your bike’s location in real-time.
• Check Bolts and Screws: Regularly inspect the bolts, screws, and locks holding your accessories, as vibrations from riding can loosen them over time.
• Buy Warranty-Protected Accessories: Opt for accessories that come with a manufacturer’s warranty for added peace of mind.

Conclusion

Your two-wheeler is more than just a machine-it’s an extension of your personality and passion. Each accessory you add reflects your investment in making your rides more stylish and enjoyable. However, these enhancements are vulnerable to theft or damage.

To protect your aftermarket upgrades, ensure they are covered under your bike insurance policy by opting for an accessories add-on cover. Whether it’s sleek crash guards, custom seats, or advanced GPS systems, these add-ons offer peace of mind and ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected.

With the right coverage, your comprehensive bike insurance can safeguard not just your bike but also the accessories that make it uniquely yours.

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