Bike Insurance - Tyre Protection Cover

Tyres are arguably one of the most important parts of a vehicle. Besides supporting the vehicle and its occupants, they undergo endless stresses while running on Indian roads, which are mostly in a state of utter chaos and replete with potholes. If your tyres aren’t in good condition, it can lead to fatal accidents.

Imagine that you meet with an accident that damages your tyres beyond repair. It is likely that you will need to replace your damaged tyres in a workshop or the showroom. You will have to pay for new tyres as well as labour charges for removing and refitting them (unless you have a great rapport with the mechanic and he waves off the labour charge!).

The cost of two-wheeler tyres depends on the brand and quality of the tyres used. For example, a Honda Activa scooter's most affordable tyre will cost approximately Rs 899/-, while the most expensive one will come to around Rs 17,170/-. A Royal Enfield bike enthusiast may know that a tyre costs anywhere between Rs 1,800/- and Rs 2,700/-. The cost of tyres for expensive bikes such as BMWs and Kawasaki Ninjas can range from Rs 1,500/- to Rs 4,300/-.

This is why you should invest in Tyre Protection Cover. With this add-on, you won't have to worry about unforeseen costs associated with tyres.
 

So, What is a Tyre Protection Cover?

A Tyre Protection Cover is an add-on provided by your insurance company that covers any damage caused to your bike's tyres. It will take care of any costs associated with repairing or replacing the tyre if it is damaged.
 

What is Covered Under a Tyre Protection Cover?

The following situations are covered:

• Replacement
  If your bike tyre is completely damaged or can no longer be repaired, a replacement will be provided to you. The cost of replacement is covered.

  Please note: that the number of replacements you can get can be limited by the insurance company. For instance, ICICI Lombard and SBI General allow a maximum of 4 tyre replacements in a policy year.

• Damages or Bulges
  If a tyre is damaged or has a bulge in it due to an accident, the charges will be borne by the insurer.

• Labour Charges
  Some insurers like SBI General also cover labour charges.

Note: Make sure you check your policy wording thoroughly to be aware of what your insurer covers.
 

What is Not Covered Under Tyre Protection Cover?

A Tyre Protection Cover shall not provide coverage in the following circumstances -

• Punctures, as they are a frequent and common problem which can be repaired in any workshop.
• Damage caused to the tyre because of overloading or inappropriate transportation.
• Damage caused due to manufacturing faults or services provided by unauthorised service garages.
• Regular wear and tear like small scratches, etc.
• Damage to a tyre caused by participation in a race or rally.
• Damage caused to a tyre under the influence of alcohol or narcotics.
• Theft of tyre(s)/tube(s) or its parts and accessories unless the bike has been stolen.
• Minor damage to the tyre or a small dent on the tyre which does not affect its functioning.
• Damage to the tyre as a result of participation in illegal activities.
• If an insurance claim is made for a tyre that is different from the insured tyre or shown to be a part of the original equipment that came with the vehicle. The insurance company will not be responsible for paying the claim unless the same is informed to them and endorsed in your policy.
• If the loss is covered by another manufacturer's warranty or recall campaign or any such package at the same time.
   

Benefits of Tyre Protection Cover

Here are a few reasons why you should consider investing in a Tyre Protection Cover -

• Protection Against Any Financial Losses
  Having a tyre protection plan shields you from any expenses you incur if your tyre is stolen/damaged due to unforeseen circumstances.

• Curbs Out-Of-Pocket Expenses
  If your vehicle is damaged in an accident, your bike insurance policy may assist you in covering vehicle repairs. However, it will not cover the cost of damaged tyres. With a Tyre Protection Cover, the cost of repairing/replacing your tyre will be borne by the insurer. This way you can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.

• Covers Tyre Replacement
  If your tyre is damaged beyond repair, the only solution is to replace it. The cost of replacing a tyre can be quite high, especially if you own a high-end bike. Having a Tyre Protection Cover lets you rest easy knowing tyre replacement costs are covered.
   

Who Should Buy a Tyre Protection Cover?

Buying tyre protection add-ons is a worthwhile investment if any of the following applies to you

• If you live or frequently visit a hilly area.

  Example: Mahat travels to Kodaikanal frequently on his bike. During one ride to the hills, he ran over some glass pieces on the road that severely damaged his bike’s tyre. Since he owns a Tyre Protection Cover for his bike, he contacted his insurance company and they agreed to cover the damage.

• If you are someone who needs to ride your bike on a daily basis on rough or bumpy roads.

  Example: Let's say Rahul's house is located in an area with poorly constructed roads. He commutes on those roads every day. One fine morning, his bike's tyre burst and needed to be replaced. Since he had Tyre Protection Cover, the insurer covered the entire cost of replacing the tyre.

• If you own an expensive bike.
• If you live in an accident-prone area.
   

Wrapping Up!

A Tyre Protection Cover is a valuable add-on that can save you money in the long run. In addition, this will ensure your bike lasts significantly longer than usual by keeping it in a good state. Ensure you read the policy's inclusions and exclusions before selecting this benefit - so you know what to expect.