Keep your eye on the road for the strongest bike insurance policy your budget can carry:
1. Find companies that offer the right coverage.
Learn about your state’s required minimum coverage, and search for companies that offer what you need based on your driving habits and the type of bike you have. For example, if you take long road trips, roadside assistance, trip interruption and replacement cost could come in handy. But basic coverage might be enough for weekend rides near your home.
Terms and conditions can be difficult to untangle, but look for key features when considering whether a coverage type is right for you.
| Property damage liability | Damages to someone else’s vehicle or property |
| Bodily injury liability | Medical bills and other related costs, if you injure someone else |
| Collision | Your motorcycle if it’s damaged or written off after an accident |
| Uninsured or underinsured coverage | You, if the person at fault doesn’t have enough coverage for your damages |
| Emergency travel accommodation and repairs | Hotel rooms and assistance getting home if you have an accident far from where you live |
| Rental car | Temporary rental car while your motorcycle is off the road |
| New motorcycle replacement | Your motorcycle, replacing it with the same model if it’s stolen or written off |
| Personal property | The gear you’re carrying when you crash |
| Riding gear | Your leathers and helmet if they’re damaged in an accident |
| Comprehensive coverage | Your motorcycle against theft, vandalism, extreme weather and other damage |
| Gap coverage | The balance on your motorcycle loan if your ride is stolen or written off |
2. Weigh in motorcycle-specific brands vs. traditional brands.
In such a competitive market, you’ll want to compare several bike insurance companies for their coverage and price point. Consider that a motorcycle-specific insurance company may offer better customer service and coverage, while a traditional insurance company might offer cheap rates and discounts for bundling with other types of insurance.
3. Find free perks.
If an insurance company offers free coverage or perks like accident forgiveness, these might save you money since you won’t pay for the extra coverage or for higher premiums after an accident.
4. Look for discounts.
See which company offers the most savings for discounts you could qualify for, such as discounts for multiple vehicles, completing a motorcycle safety course or getting your motorcycle license. Also, if your bike’s kept in secure off-street parking, you might see an extra discount.
5. Balance your out-of-pocket costs.
A higher deductible can reduce your premiums, but you’ll want to have enough in savings for repairs or a new bike. If you don’t want that responsibility, keep your deductible at a comfortable level for your wallet, and see which companies offer you the best deal for that deductible.
