While it isnt a direct replacement for a car, more people should consider purchasing an e-bike rather than another EV.
Velosurance is a national insurance agency founded by two cyclists in response to the insurance needs of bicycle riders nationwide. We partnered with an A.M.Best “A” rated, US insurance company to provide a multi-risk policy offering protection to all types of cyclists.
California is cycling paradise
Amazing weather, diverse terrain and a bike-friendy environment make California an optimal cycling destination.
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California cycling in numbers
California is one the most bicycle-friendly states in the nation.
50%
Bike ownership
13,000
Miles of trails
87
State parks
93
Bike friendliness score
California from a cyclist's perspective
California has long been considered one of the best states for cycling, and not without merit. California’s allure stems from a blend of factors that attract both dedicated enthusiasts and everyday commuters alike.
California boasts year-round mild weather that makes cycling possible throughout the majority of the year. California’s terrain varies from rugged mountains and rolling hills to charming coastal routes and flat desert landscapes. Such variety caters to every skill level and preference. The state also features a remarkable network of trails: between dedicated bike paths, multi-use trails and rail-to-trail conversions there’s over 13,000 miles of bikeable trails.
California is continuing to invest into its bicycle infrastructure, the plan has helped it move from 8th to 3rd most bike-friendly states in the US. California’s thriving bike-friendly culture is evident in omnipresent bike shops, repair facilities, and bicycle-centric events. Many cities prioritize bike infrastructure with protected lanes, cycling-specific traffic signals, and bike-parking facilities.
California Cycling Weather
California’s weather is as diverse as its landscape, varying greatly depending on location and elevation. Much of California's Mediterranean climate with warm and dry summers and wet winters. Inland valleys like the Central Valley experience hotter summers and colder winters, with most precipitation concentrated in the winter months. The Sierra Nevada mountains and other high-altitude areas have a distinct four-season climate. Finally, the southwestern deserts, like Death Valley, are characterized by extreme heat and aridity, with summer temperatures often exceeding 100F.
Sunny days a year
284
Riding season
All year round
284 sunny days a year
Riding season
California Cycling Destinations
Old Mission to La Cumbre Peak (Gibraltar Road)
Santa Barbara, CA
Distance: 30 mi
Elevation gain: 5,600 ft
Time: 3 hrs
The Ridge Route is one of Santa Barbara’s most popular and harder routes. The ride begins at the Mission and goes up right away, leading to the base of the Gibraltar road, which climbs 2,600 ft in 6 miles and features views of the south coast as well as Channel and Pacific islands. The top of the climb is La Cumbre Peak, the highest point overlooking Santa Barbara. The Painted Cave Road that follows is steep, winding, and narrow so exercise caution when descending it towards the Old San Marcos road. At the bottom of the Old San Marcos Road take the bike pane on Route 192 back to the Mission. This route is also popular in the opposite direction: coming up Old San Marcos and Painted Cave and descending Gibraltar.
Paradise Loop (Tiburon Loop)
San Francisco, CA
Distance: 38 mi
Elevation gain: 2,148 ft
Time: 3 hrs
Also known as the Tiburon Loop, this 38-mile loop is an option for cyclists of all ability levels, which makes it a great choice for a leisurely weekend ride with friends and family. In its most popular iteration, this loop starts at the Crissy Field in San Francisco, goes across the Golden Gate bridge and through the town of Sausalito, meanders through the entire length of the Northeast side of the Tiburon Peninsula with the midpoint in the town of Tiburon. A good portion of this loop is on bike paths that run through a few popular tourist areas so caution is advised. A portion of the route near Blithedale Avenue in Mill Valley is quite busy with fast moving traffic and requires crossing a freeway, but once you get off this busy section you’ll end up back on a beautiful bike trail that follows the water all the way to the town of Tiburon.
While this may seem like a long ride, it is relatively straightforward and features only a few notable climbs, neither of which is greater than 150 ft (45 m) in elevation. Following this route almost anyone can comfortably explore a significant portion of Marin County from a bike.
Alexander Valley Loop
Healdsburg, CA (Sonoma County)
Distance: 25 mi
Elevation gain: 791 ft
Time: 1.5 hrs
Located in the heart of Sonoma County, the route is known for its scenic beauty, vineyard views and a mix of flat stretches and challenging hills. This diversity caters to cyclists of varying skill levels, making this route accessible to both beginners and experienced riders. One of the highlights of this loop is the opportunity to visit renowned wineries situated along the way.
Tahoe Rim Trail
Tahoe City, CA
Distance: 165 mi
Elevation gain: 10,826 ft
Time: 1 day
The Tahoe Rim Trail is a long-distance trail that encircles the entire Lake Tahoe Basin. The trail offers some of the best mountain biking in the world, but is also considered extremely challenging and should only be attempted by experienced riders. The vast majority of the trail is multi-use so expect encounters with hikers and horseback riders. Individual segments of the trail are popular as rides in themselves, and provide access to stunning vistas, alpine meadows and breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding mountain ranges.
Mount Lowe Railway Loop
Angeles National Forest, CA
Distance: 10.6 mi
Elevation gain: 2,769 ft
Time: 2 hrs
This is a popular intermediate gravel ride in a forest near Los Angeles. The loop takes riders on a scenic journey through the forest, offering stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains and the surrounding wilderness. The route follows the path of the former Mount Lowe Railway that operated from 1893 to 1938, riders can still see the remnants of the historic railway infrastructure along the way.
California Cycling Events
Endless ocean views, desert landscapes and winding country roads make California cycling events not to be missed.
Levi’s GranFondo
Levi's GranFondo is an annual cycling event founded by former professional cyclist Levi Leipheimer. Held in Santa Rosa, California, it attracts cyclists of all levels for a challenging ride through picturesque Sonoma County on scenic roads with surrounding vineyards and beautiful landscapes. This inclusive event attracts riders of all ages and experience, they can chose the distance they are comfortable with: 10.7 mi, 22 mi, 40 mi, 63 mi, 81 mi or 120 mi. The "gran" route includes the scenic King Ridge Road, renowned for its scenic beauty and challenging terrain.
Event website
Tour de Palm Springs
The Tour de Palm Springs is an annual charitable ride through the scenic Coachella Valley that attracts up to 10,000 cyclists. Known for its flat and fast routes, it offers riders a chance to enjoy beautiful desert landscapes while supporting local charities. Routes of varying distances and difficulties are available: with distances from 7 mi to 102 mi, making it one of the most inclusive cycling events in the nation. Featuring live music and entertainment at rest stops it oozes a festive atmosphere and a sense of community.
Event website
California Coast Classic Bike Tour
Starting in San Francisco and winding its way down the scenic Pacific Coast Highly for approximately 525 miles, this annual tour attracts cycling enthusiasts from around the world. The route offers cyclists awe-inspiring views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and picturesque coastal landscapes. The tour includes stops at charming coastal towns, allowing riders to explore local attractions, savor delicious cuisine, and interact with fellow cyclists. Beyond the exhilarating physical aspect, the California Coast Classic is often organized as a charity event, with riders fundraising for various causes, making it a meaningful and socially impactful endeavor.
Event website
Death Ride (Tour of the California Alps)
The Tour of the California Alps is a challenging cycling event held in Sierra Nevada mountains. The route spans 129 miles and climbs over 3 mountain passes (Monitor Pass, Ebbetts Pass and Pacific Grade), totalling 14,000 ft (4,267 m) of elevation gain. The nickname “Death Ride” reflects the challenging nature of the event and the significant physical fitness required to complete it.
Event website
Downieville Classic
Renowned for its challenging downhill course and festival atmosphere, this event typically includes two main races: the Downieville Downhill and the All-Mountain World Championships. The Downhill race covers a steep and technical 17-mile descent from Packer Saddle to Downieville, while the All-Mountain World Championships combine the Downhill race with a cross-country component, totaling around 29 miles. The entire event has a festival feel with music, food and countless vendors.
Event website
Sea Otter Classic
Held at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area in Monterey, and catering to both amateur and professional athletes alike, this festival features a wide array of competitive races, including road cycling, mountain biking, cyclocross and BMX. The event also includes a huge product expo where industry manufacturers showcase their latest gear, bikes and technology. Being an early-season event and a part of the Life Time Series, it’s popular with racers who are eager to test their fitness or maybe even secure sponsorship or a team contract. The event also offers camping, skills clinics and workshops, bike demos and family-friendly activities.
Event websiteCalifornia's best bicycle insurance
No matter where your adventures take you, protect your bicycle and yourself from the unexpected with America's best bicycle insurance.
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Coverages and Features
Velosurance core policy offers must-have protection such as accidental damage, theft, or loss in transit. Each policy can be customized by adding additional coverages such as liability protection, uninsured motorist coverage, and medical gap coverage.
Total loss by theft
Bikes are very easy to steal and equally difficult to recover, and a hefty U-lock doesn’t guarantee that your bicycle will remain yours when you return. Velosurance provides peace of mind when your bike is stolen or damaged in the process.
Medical coverage
If you’re hurt and require medical attention, our policy's optional purchase medical payments will cover your medical bills, up to the policy limit. The policy medical payments are paid directly to you to supplement the deductible of your personal health insurance policy.
Any crash or accidental damage
Our policy will pay to replace the bike when it is accidentally damaged and beyond repair, including damage that occurs while being carried on or in your vehicle. If the damage can be repaired, the policy will cover all the costs associated with the bike's repair, including tax, labor, and shipping. Cosmetic damage that does not affect the bike's safety is excluded.
Damage or loss in transit
Bikes often get damaged in transit by personal vehicles, airlines, or courier services. Filing a claim with the airlines and courier services is a notoriously difficult process with a questionable outcome. Our policy covers the insured bike for loss or damage while it's on its way to or from your destination by air or road. Even if the bike falls off a vehicle bike rack or is hit in a rear-end accident, it is covered, no arguments.
Electric bicycle coverage
We cover all electrically assisted Class 1, 2, and 3 bikes with a maximum assisted speed of 28 mph. All coverages available for conventional bikes also apply to e-bikes.
Liability protection
Our policy optional coverage purchase will protect and defend you from your personal liability (injury, sickness, death, or damage to property, including fire damage) that you are found legally liable for. Coverage limits offered: $25,000, $50,000, $100,000, or $300,000 per occurrence.
Worldwide coverage
If your travels take you outside of the USA and Canada, our policy can be extended, at a small additional premium, to cover physical damage, such as a crash, and will also cover theft as well as loss or damage by an airline.
Our shop or yours
When filing a claim you’ll need to provide a repair estimate from a bike shop. We have a nationwide network of partner bike shops that are familiar with our process and can help you speed through your claim. If you prefer to work with your favorite bike shop, that works too.
Gear and apparel
If your insured bike is damaged in a crash, our policy covers the bike as well as your apparel, such as helmets, shoes, glasses, or riding kits, that were also damaged in the crash, and will pay up to $500 per accident and $1,000 per policy term. Spare parts that are not installed on the bike, such as a spare wheelset, are also covered for loss or theft up to $500 per loss and $1,000 per policy term.
Your choice of lock
We do not dictate what type or brand of a lock must be used to protect the bike from theft. You are welcome to use any lock that you trust. The best security is provided when securing an unattended bike with metal locks combined with a high-quality chain. Securing your bike to a solid and immovable object, such as a bike rack, with a high-quality lock will send a bike thief onto the bike secured with a more vulnerable lock.
No depreciation
Our policy never depreciates your bike's insured value. Depreciation is a hidden deductible that increases every year, and is applied if the bike is stolen or totalled. No one is ever happy with a depreciation (actual cash value) insurance settlement: the bike is first devalued and then a deductible is applied, resulting in a reimbursement that is far less than it takes to replace the bike. The policy will reimburse you, without depreciation, for the cost of a replacement bike that is of like, kind, and quality, similar to your totaled bike.
24/7/365 coverage
Our policy covers the insured bike(s) at all times, anywhere in the USA and Canada, and can be extended worldwide on request. There are no exclusions on time of day, or limitations on how long a bike could be stored away from home. 24/7/365 means every minute of every day, no matter where or when.
Standalone bicycle insurance
A standalone policy does not piggyback on coverage provided by the policies you may already have, such as home insurance. A claim against our policy will not reflect on your insurance score and will not affect your rates with other insurance carriers. With home insurance rates going up every year, it’s prudent to reserve your claim for when you really need it, because no matter how expensive your bike is, it’s a lot cheaper than a kitchen fire or a basement flood.
Uninsured Motorist Coverage
One of the scariest things that can happen to a cyclist is getting hit by a car. This coverage will cover medical expenses, physical therapy, mental health services, lost wages, and other expenses that arise from a bicycle-car accident.
Permissive Use Policy
You can lend the bike to anyone you choose and it will be covered. The bike and the person riding the bike are covered as if it were you riding it – this includes theft and crash damage as well as any purchased optional coverages.
Why Velosurance is best for your bicycle
Not all types of insurance are created equal. Velosurance levels the playing field by offering a stand-alone bike insurance policy, where claims will not affect your homeowner or renters policy premiums.
| Policy Coverage |  | Homeowner/Renters Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Insured at Full Value | Yes | Possibly |
| Crash Damage | Yes | No |
| Theft Coverage | Yes | Limited |
| Theft by Force | Yes | No |
| Theft of Accessories | Yes | Limited |
| Theft Away From Home | Yes | Possibly |
| Vehicle Contact | Yes | No |
| Personal Liability | Yes | Possibly |
| Permissive Use Policy | Yes | No |
| Replacement Bike Rental | Yes | No |
| Event Fee Return | Yes | No |
| Cycling Apparel Coverage | Yes | No |
| Medical Payments | Yes | Possibly |
| Racing Coverage | Yes | No |
| E-bikes | Yes | No |
| Coverage in-transit | Yes | No |
| USAC, USAT and IMBA Member Discount | Yes | No |
| FREE INSTANT QUOTE |
Not all insurance policies cover bikes equally and it often takes a claim to find out that your bike isn't covered. We did the hard work and read all the fine print. To see the difference, see bicycle insurance comparison.
Customer Stories
Client satisfaction is our #1 goal. Here's what our clients say about Velosurance
"Velosurance is truly a necessity for any cyclist who is serious about their bicycle. I don't have to worry about my bike as I know if anything happens I'm covered. Dealing with Denis and Dave is also fantastic as they answered all my questions and helped through the enrollment process. Give velosurance a shot, you definitely wont be disappointed. "
Julian D
Miami, FL
"Excellent customer service and even better insurance. They were remarkable when I was involved in a case of vehicular violence (hit and run on my bicycle). I've recommended bicycle insurance to so many people, and it's always Velosurance. I'll use them for life. "
Chris R
Los Angeles, CA
"This was my first ever insurance claim. I'm pleased to be able to say that your company did a wonderful job in helping me through the process. I recommend your company to all of my racing friends. Thanks for doing right by me! "
Bryan L
New York, NY
Check out Velosurance reviews to see what else people are saying about us.
Contact Us
'Convinced yet? Let's make something great together.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with us.'
California's best bicycle insurance
No matter where your adventures take you, protect your bicycle and yourself from the unexpected with America's best bicycle insurance.
Free instant quote
Velosurance story
Velosurance is a national insurance program founded by two avid cyclists, Dave Williams and Denis Voitenko in response to the insurance needs of bicycle riders nationwide.
It all started over tacos
One very rainy day at a local taco joint in Fort Lauderdale we started discussing how badly home and renters policies insured bicycles. We knew there had to be a better way so we set about finding out how we could take a traditional piece of insurance and make it better, much better. On that wet day over tacos, Velosurance was founded.
We partnered with Markel American Insurance Company, an A.M. Best, A rated, US insurance company, and a leader in recreational insurance, to offer a multi-risk bicycle insurance policy providing protection to all types of cyclists, and with none of the silly restrictions that other insurance wants to place on riders.
Our mission
The Velosurance mission is to be fair to everyone involved, and to offer our best advice to clients so they can make an educated decision about their bicycle insurance coverage. We also like to ride as much as possible.
We are riders too
Bicycle prices increase every year and cyclists who are serious about their sport are spending big money on high value bikes. Other forms of insurance, like homeowners and renters insurance, do a poor job insuring high value bicycles so we founded Velosurance to fix that.
Velosurance provides a stand-alone, no bike value depreciation, bicycle insurance policy to replace the cobbled together, sub standard coverages offered by traditional insurance.
We are cyclists just like you, and we understand that when your bike gets damaged in an accident you want the shortest possible downtime. We make it our mission to see that your claim check arrives before the repair parts do and you get back pedaling as soon as you want to.
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Velosurance discounts
Members of USA Cycling, USA Triathlon, and International Mountain Bicycle Association (IMBA) receive discounts on Velosurance bicycle insurance products.
Velosurance provides bicycle insurance policies in the following states: Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, D.C., Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin.