Zero Depreciation Cover in Bike Insurance

Zero depreciation cover, also known as zero-dep bike insurance, is a valuable add-on for two-wheeler owners. It ensures that claims are settled without deducting depreciation, allowing for a higher payout compared to standard policies.

Here's everything you need to know about this add-on and why it might be the right choice for you.

Zero Depreciation Cover in Bike Insurance

What is Zero Depreciation Bike Insurance?

In standard bike insurance policies, depreciation is deducted from the claim amount, leaving the owner to cover part of the cost. With a zero-depreciation add-on cover, the insurer pays the depreciation cost, providing full coverage for the bike’s parts, including plastic, rubber, and fibre components. This is especially beneficial for new and luxury bikes.

Key Features

  1. Full Coverage: Covers the full cost of repairs or replacements without depreciation deductions.
  2. Higher Claim Settlement: Ensures higher payouts in case of accidents or theft.
  3. Eligibility: Ideal for new bike owners, those in accident-prone areas, or owners of expensive bikes. Typically available for bikes up to two years old.

What is Depreciation Meaning in Bike Insurance?

Depreciation refers to the reduction in a bike's value over time due to wear and tear or ageing. This affects the Insured Declared Value (IDV), which determines the maximum claim amount.

Depreciation Rates Based on Age

Bike AgeDepreciation Rate
Less than 6 months5%
6 months - 1 year15%
1 - 2 years20%
2 - 3 years30%
3 - 4 years40%
4 - 5 years50%
Over 5 yearsVaries (negotiable)

Benefits of Zero Depreciation Coverage

  1. Full Claim Amount: Unlike standard policies, zero depreciation bike insurance means no deductions for depreciable parts, meaning you get a higher payout.
  2. Covers All Parts: This includes plastic, fibre, and rubber components, often excluded under basic plans.
  3. Financial Savings: Reduces repair costs significantly for high-value or luxury bikes with expensive spare parts.
  4. Peace of Mind: Ideal for accident-prone areas or new bike owners, this coverage ensures stress-free claims.
  5. Flexibility: The add-on can be included during the purchase or renewal of a car insurance policy online or a bike insurance plan.

How is Depreciation Calculated in Bike Insurance?

Depreciation in bike insurance is calculated to determine the current market value of a motorcycle, which affects the Insured Declared Value (IDV) used for insurance coverage.

Here’s how depreciation is typically calculated:

The IDV is calculated by deducting depreciation from the bike's value:

IDV = Manufacturer’s Price - Depreciation Value

For accessories, their value and depreciation are also factored in.

Example: A ₹1,00,000 bike, 2 years old, has a 20% depreciation.

  • Depreciation: ₹20,000
  • Current IDV: ₹1,00,000 - ₹20,000 = ₹80,000

With Zero Depreciation Add-on, the claim would be settled at ₹1,00,000.

What’s Covered in Zero Depreciation Bike Insurance Add-on?

  1. Depreciable Parts: Plastic, rubber, fibre, and nylon components are covered at full value without considering depreciation.
  2. Accidental Damage Repairs: Repair costs for damaged parts after an accident are reimbursed fully, without factoring in depreciation.

What’s Not Covered in Zero Depreciation Bike Insurance Add-on?

  1. Normal Wear and Tear: Parts that naturally deteriorate over time, like worn brake pads or rust, are not covered.
  2. Mechanical or Electrical Failures: Issues like engine breakdowns or electrical failure are excluded.
  3. Total Loss or Theft: Coverage doesn't apply to total loss or theft when depreciation is considered.
  4. Tyre Damage: Damage to tyres may not be covered, especially in cases like wear or punctures.

In summary, the Zero Depreciation Add-on ensures full coverage for certain parts but does not apply to wear mechanical failures or loss due to theft.

Bike Insurance with Zero Depreciation V/S Without Zero Depreciation

CriteriaBike Insurance with Zero Depreciation CoverBike Insurance without Zero Depreciation Cover
PremiumHigher premium due to comprehensive coverageLower premium as depreciation is factored in
Depreciation on PartsNot considered, full claim amount for repairsConsidered, leading to reduced claim settlements
Impact of Vehicle AgeNo impact on the claim amountClaim amount decreases with the age of the vehicle
Claim SettlementInsurer pays the full cost of damaged partsInsured pays a portion due to depreciation deductions
Out-of-Pocket ExpensesMinimal, as most costs are coveredHigher, as depreciation costs must be borne by the owner
Ideal ForNew bikes or those with expensive partsOlder bikes or those with lower market value
Coverage LimitationsTypically valid for up to 2 claims per policy termStandard coverage applies but with depreciation
ExclusionsNormal wear and tear, mechanical failure not coveredSimilar exclusions apply, but depreciation affects claims
Overall BenefitsBetter financial protection and peace of mindMore affordable premiums but less coverage

Benefits of SBI General Zero Depreciation Bike Insurance Cover

  1. Full Claim Amount: Policyholders receive the full claim amount without depreciation deductions, covering the entire repair or replacement cost.
  2. Financial Savings: No depreciation deductions on parts, leading to significant savings, especially for high-value bikes or costly spare parts.
  3. Enhanced Coverage for All Bikes: Available for new bikes and bikes up to two years old, offering flexibility for different riders.
  4. Peace of Mind: Provides full compensation for damages, reducing worries about depreciation, especially in accident-prone areas.
  5. Limited Claims Benefit: Typically allows up to two claims per policy term, promoting responsible usage while ensuring coverage.
  6. Add-On Flexibility: This can be added at the time of policy purchase or renewal, offering customisation based on needs.

How to Buy/ Renew Zero Depreciation Bike Insurance Add-on?

Purchasing or renewing a Zero Depreciation Cover for your bike online is straightforward and convenient. Insurers like SBI General have a simple process which you can follow:

  • Visit the Provider’s Website: Visit the two-wheeler insurance section on your insurer’s website.
  • Opt for the Zero Depreciation Add-On: Select this add-on with a comprehensive bike insurance policy.
  • Complete the Formalities: Upload the necessary documents and make the payment. The policy will be sent to your registered email.

SBI General makes the process easy, allowing you to secure full coverage for your bike’s depreciable parts without stepping out of your home.

Who Should Buy Zero Depreciation Bike Insurance Cover?

  1. New Bike Owners: Ideal for new purchases, ensuring full compensation close to the original value without depreciation.
  2. Owners of High-Value or Luxury Bikes: Protects against high repair costs and expensive spare parts, covering them fully without depreciation.
  3. Frequent Riders: Riders who travel daily or long distances, providing peace of mind with minimised out-of-pocket repair costs.
  4. Riders in High-Traffic Areas: Beneficial for those in urban areas with frequent minor accidents, helping reduce the financial costs incurred.
  5. Inexperienced Riders: New riders prone to minor accidents can benefit from financial protection against damage.
  6. Owners Concerned About Future Expenses: Prevents unexpected repair costs as the bike ages, offering long-term financial security.

Which Add-ons to Buy with Zero Depreciation Cover?

  1. Emergency Roadside Assistance: Offers services like towing, battery jump-start, flat tyre changes, and fuel delivery to assist during breakdowns.
  2. No Claim Bonus Protection: Protects your No Claim Bonus, allowing you to retain discounts even after making a claim.
  3. Personal Accident Cover: Provides financial compensation for injuries or death resulting from an accident, ensuring security for you and your family.
  4. Engine Protection: Covers damages to the engine due to water ingress or leakage, protecting costly components.
  5. Theft Coverage: Enhances theft protection, offering higher compensation limits or extra recovery services.
  6. Comprehensive Natural Calamity Cover: Protects against damage caused by natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, and storms.
  7. Coverage for tyres and Tubes: Provides full coverage for tyre and tube damage, including punctures, without depreciation deductions.

Things To Consider Before Buying a Zero Depreciation Bike Insurance Cover

  1. Age of the Bike: Typically available for bikes under two years old. Older bikes may not qualify.
  2. Premium Costs: Zero depreciation coverage comes with higher premiums. Ensure it fits your budget and provides value.
  3. Claim Limits: Most policies allow up to two claims per term. Understand the limits before purchasing.
  4. Inclusions and Exclusions: Know what’s covered (e.g., depreciable parts, repair costs) and what’s excluded (e.g., mechanical failures, wear and tear, theft).
  5. Coverage for Accessories: Check if accessories are included or additional coverage is needed.
  6. Type of Policy: Zero depreciation can be added to comprehensive or standalone damage policies. Choose the one that suits your needs.
  7. Renewal Process: Coverage must be renewed annually. Assess long-term viability and potential premium increases.
  8. Financial Implications: Weigh potential repair savings against the cost of the add-on to ensure it’s financially worthwhile.
  9. Insurance Provider Reputation: Research the provider's claim settlement ratio and customer service for peace of mind.

Zero depreciation insurance is an essential add-on for bike owners seeking enhanced coverage and financial security. Whether you're a new bike owner or frequently ride in high-traffic areas, this cover eliminates depreciation-related deductions, providing peace of mind. To enjoy reliable and customer-friendly insurance, opt for SBI General’s zero dep add on cover—a trusted choice for hassle-free claims and comprehensive protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

The premium for zero depreciation bike insurance is influenced by factors like the age of the bike, its make and model, location, and the add-ons included in the bike insurance policy. Premiums are typically higher due to the added benefits of full compensation for depreciable parts, which increases the insurer's liability.

Yes, zero depreciation insurance for two-wheelers is highly beneficial for new bike owners. It ensures that in case of an accident, the bike owner receives the full claim amount without depreciation deductions, providing excellent protection for the bike's original value.

For bikes older than two years, zero depreciation bike insurance may not be available. If your bike qualifies, it can be useful to reduce out-of-pocket repair costs, especially for high-end parts, though the benefits are higher for newer bikes.

To avail zero dep add on cover, the bike should usually be less than two years old. It must be part of a comprehensive insurance policy, and there may be limits on the number of claims allowed during the policy term.

Since zero depreciation bike insurance means full reimbursement without depreciation deductions, it may not be available for a 3-year-old secondhand bike. However, check with the insurer for eligibility, as some providers offer exceptions or partial coverage for older bikes.

No, zero-depreciation bike insurance can only be added to a comprehensive policy, not a third-party bike insurance plan. Third-party insurance covers only liability, not damage to your bike.

A comprehensive bike insurance plan covers all types of damages to your bike, but zero dep add on cover eliminates depreciation deductions on parts, ensuring full reimbursement for repairs and replacements, making it more beneficial in terms of repair costs.

While bumper-to-bumper insurance for bikes is similar, it generally includes extensive coverage, including the body of the bike, against accidents and damages. Zero depreciation insurance for two-wheelers specifically eliminates depreciation for parts, ensuring full compensation for repairs.

Zero dep bike insurance covers the full repair costs for depreciable parts, while own damage cover typically only covers repair costs after depreciation. Zero depreciation ensures no deductions for parts like plastic, rubber, and nylon.

Zero dep is an add-on that can be added to a comprehensive bike insurance policy. It ensures full reimbursement for depreciable parts without factoring in depreciation, enhancing the coverage of the base policy.

In most cases, zero depreciation bike insurance does not cover airbag deployment. However, some insurers may provide separate coverage for airbags as part of a higher-end plan. Check the policy details for specific inclusions.

Tyres may or may not be covered under zero depreciation bike insurance. Some policies include full coverage for tyres, while others may exclude damage caused by normal wear and tear. Check the policy terms for details.

Small scratches typically fall under minor cosmetic damages, which may not be covered by zero depreciation bike insurance. Claims are generally for significant damages that require repairs, such as broken or damaged parts, rather than superficial marks.

Yes, purchasing a car insurance policy online is convenient and often offers discounts. It allows you to compare different plans and easily tailor your coverage to your needs.

Opting for zero depreciation bike insurance means you won’t have to bear repair costs for depreciable parts, ensuring full compensation after an accident. This add-on provides enhanced protection, especially for new or high-value bikes, and minimises out-of-pocket expenses.



Disclaimer: The above information is indicative in nature, for more details on complete coverage and terms and conditions, please contact our nearest office and also read the policy document and sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale.

SBI General Insurance and SBI are separate legal entities and SBI is working as Corporate Agent of the company for sourcing of insurance products.

*T&C Apply

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