Motorcycle insurance for under-21-year-olds

Few things are as satisfying as your first set of wheels. But to find reasonably priced motorcycle insurance coverage as an under-21 rider, you need to know how to cut costs and compare providers.

What kind of motorcycle insurance do I need as a young rider?

Motorcyclists need a minimum level of liability based on the requirements in their province or territory. Many riders add collision coverage to cover damage to their own bike, plus comprehensive for theft, fire and other types of damage.

You’ll be required — regardless of your age — to provide proof of insurance before your bikes can be registered, just like with cars.

Your policy will protect you, your bike and others on the road in the event of an accident. It also protects your bike — and potentially even your equipment — from theft.

How much does under-21 motorcycle insurance cost?

For 18-21 year old riders, policies can easily exceed $2,200 (as a male living in Ontario). Compare that to policies for riders older than 25 with premiums ringing in around $1,400 in Ontario and $750 per year nationally. But keep in mind that the price can vary significantly depending on the rider’s age, where you live and the make and model of your motorcycle.

Insurance can be purchased from privately-owned companies in all provinces and territories except British Columbia, Manitoba and Saskatchewan, where you’ll have to purchase insurance through a provincially-operated company. However, you can purchase additional coverage from a private insurance company if you live in Saskatchewan, which can help ensure you’re paying competitive rates.

How can I save on under-21 motorcycle insurance?

Motorcycle insurance for teenagers doesn’t need to cost a fortune. Save money on your policy with the following tips:

• Pick a less powerful bike. A brand new sportbike or remodeled bike with aftermarket parts will cost you a pretty penny to insure. Select an older, less powerful model with less than 1,000cc can potentially help cut back on insurance costs.
• Know your coverage needs. Don’t purchase more coverage than you need. Know the insurance requirements in your province or territory and select the appropriate amount of coverage to fit your needs.
• Take a training course. Some providers offer policy discounts for drivers with a bit of extra practice. Take a motorcycle training course to improve your driving credentials and lower your premiums.
• Pay your premium annually. If you choose to pay for your coverage annually instead of monthly, some insurers will give you a rate reduction in your premiums.
• Limit mileage. The more you use your bike, the greater risk you are in the eyes of your insurance carrier. If you can, limit your riding to keep the cost of coverage down.
• Secure your bike. Keep your bike safe by storing it in a secure location and equipping it with an alarm and immobilizer for potential policy discounts.
• Add an experienced rider. Adding an older and more experienced rider to your policy could help you save in the long run.
• Shop around. Where and how you purchase your policy is as important as the policy itself. Explore your coverage options with multiple providers and consider purchasing online for potentially more savings.
• Lay-up insurance. If you don’t plan to ride your bike in the winter months, consider storage insurance. Your bike is still covered from natural disasters and theft while in storage, and you’ll save on your premiums.

What kind of coverage should I get as an under-21 motorcycle driver?

Every province and territory has its own minimum coverage requirements, so make sure you understand what’s required in your state before purchasing a policy:

• Collision. Covers damage to your bike in an accident.
• Comprehensive. Protects against natural disasters, vandalism, glass damage, animal collisions and theft.
• Medical liability. If you injure another person in an accident, this helps cover their associated medical costs.
• Property damage liability. Covers damage you cause to another person’s property or vehicle.
• Roadside assistance. Covers the cost of towing and labor if your bike breaks down en route.
• Student discounts. Some providers offer policy discounts for college and university students.

Types of car insurance coverage

What should I watch out for with under-21 motorcycle insurance?

Steer clear of these young-driver insurance coverage potholes:

• Sport bikes. Sport bikes may be a tempting choice for new riders, but they are significantly more expensive to insure than cruisers.
• Driving record. An unblemished driving record will help you save on insurance now and in the future.
• Theft. Motorcycles and their parts are stolen more often than automobiles, so many providers offer discounts for drivers who store their bikes safely.
• Standalone policies. It may be possible to purchase motorcycle coverage through an existing provider. So if one member of your household already has car insurance, contact your insurer to see if you can add your teen rider to the existing policy. Bundling policies is more cost effective than purchasing a standalone policy.

Bottom line

Under-21 riders can find well-priced motorcycle insurance with a combination of the right bike, coverage and provider. Learn more about your insurance options and compare providers to secure the best rate and policy add-ons for your personal needs.

Frequently asked questions about under-21 motorcycle insurance

• Does CAA have motorcycle insurance?

  Yes. CAA offers motorcycle insurance. You should be eligible for a discount if you already have another type of CAA insurance or are a roadside assistance member.

• Do I need insurance for my moped or scooter?

  Yes, you’ll generally be required to take out insurance on a moped or scooter. Visit your local ministry of transportation’s website to find out how your vehicle is categorized in your province or territory and to learn more about its insurance requirements.

• What’s the cheapest motorcycle to insure?

  Generally, cruisers are the cheapest bike style to insure, while touring and sportbikes cost the most to purchase and insure.

• Is it cheaper to insure a motorcycle or a car?

  It’s typically cheaper to insure a car compared to a motorcycle, because motorcyclists have a greater risk of injury. But young drivers of either vehicle class tend to pay more for their coverage.