How to Register or Insure a Used Electric Bike

Written by: Rémy Rossi | December 1, 2025 Time to read 4 min

With e-Bike insurance, you’re protected on all sides— from theft to unexpected damage to everyday riding accidents. Here’s how to make sure you’re covered.

More about the Author: Rémy Rossi

Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.

Trek Allant+ electric bike
Before you take your electric bike for a spin, take a moment to register it or buy insurance for extra peace of mind. A bit of thinking ahead can save you from major headaches and costly fixes in the case of theft, damage, or incidents out in the wild. Here’s how to register and insure your used electric bike.

How can I register my electric bike?

Registering your bike means uploading its model information and unique serial number to a database maintained by a local government or a national bike registry, such as Project 529. Having a record of your bike makes it easier to track down if it’s stolen and helps prove it's yours when it’s recovered.

Here are the steps to register your e-Bike:

  • Snap a clear photo of your bike for your records
  • Note down the bike’s serial number— usually found on the frame beneath the crankset
  • If available, register your bike with your city or local police department
  • Add your bike to the Project 529 or Bike Index registries to help protect it from theft


You can register your bike online in just a few clicks. All Upway e-Bikes come with a Registration Kit from Project 529, including a tamperproof shield with a unique ID code for your bike. 

To complete the registration with Project 529:

  • Get the app: Download the Project 529 app from your phone’s app store.
  • Register your bike: Enter details like the serial number, model, and value (the serial number is usually under the bottom bracket).
  • Apply the 529 Shield: Place the tamper-proof decal on your frame—ideally on the seat tube—to deter theft and link your bike to your registration.

How can I insure my electric bike?

Bicycle with blue chain combination lock

These days, it’s extremely easy to purchase an insurance policy for your electric bike, whether it’s brand-new or used. Bike-specific insurance companies like Sundays offer affordable packages to cover bicycles and e-Bikes, which are often excluded from renters’ or homeowners’ insurance policies.

To insure your e-Bike, Upway partners with Sundays to easily add insurance at the time of checkout. If you already have an electric bike, simply go online and share information about your bike to receive a quote. The quote depends on factors like the state you live in, e-Bike value, and chosen policy options. You can select additional coverage— such as racing, custom parts, travel, bike hire, and more.

Should I get electric bike insurance?

Paying a bit extra per month for e-Bike insurance is a smart choice if you ride often or own a higher-end model. While added protection always brings peace of mind, it’s not necessary for everyone. As a general guideline, Upway recommends an extended warranty or insurance for anyone logging 20+ miles per week.


Bike insurance is especially useful for:


  • High-mileage riders: If you ride more than 20 miles weekly for fitness or transportation, extra protection can save you from costly surprises.

  • Daily commuters: Urban riding and parking increase the risk of theft. Sundays e-Bike insurance covers theft at home and on the go when an approved bicycle lock is used.

  • Owners of premium e-Bikes: The more valuable the bike, the more worthwhile an extended warranty or insurance becomes in case of damage or loss.


A used e-Bike deserves fresh protection—here’s how to lock in security, cut risk, and keep your ride truly yours!



Frequently Asked Questions

How do I register my used electric bike?

Register your e-Bike by submitting its serial number, model info, and a photo to a registry like Project 529 or Bike Index. This helps authorities recover your bike if it’s stolen.

Quick steps: Find your serial number → Take a photo → Register online → Apply the Project 529 shield included with every Upway e-Bike.

What does e-Bike insurance cover?

Specialized e-Bike insurance—such as Sundays—covers theft, accidental damage, crashes, vandalism, and transit issues. Optional add-ons can include racing, custom parts, and travel coverage. Upway customers can add Sundays insurance directly at checkout.

Do I need insurance for a used electric bike?

Insurance is recommended if you ride 20+ miles per week, commute daily, or own a higher-value bike. It protects against theft and costly repairs, offering peace of mind for frequent or urban riders.

Key Takeaways


  1. Registration boosts recovery: Logging your bike’s serial number with Project 529 or local authorities greatly increases the chance of getting it back if stolen.
  2. Insurance fills the gaps: Standalone e-Bike policies— often preferred by Upway customers— cover theft, crashes, and damage that homeowners’ insurance won’t.
  3. Protection pays off for frequent riders: If you commute daily, ride 20+ miles a week, or own a higher-end model, insurance or an extended warranty offers valuable peace of mind.

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