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.

How much does under-21 motorcycle insurance cost?

The typical cost of motorcycle insurance for an 18-year-old is $1,043 with Geico, but using a different company could add as much as $1,500. Major factors that affect a teen’s insurance rates include the type of bike, their address and any safety courses taken.

Similarly, the typical cost of motorcycle insurance for a 21-year-old is $997 with Geico. Insurance companies consider this young age group an increased risk for accidents, but a rider can save money through safety courses, by using an antitheft device or garaging their bike.

Examples of motorcycle policy costs for these age groups from different companies:

• How we got these annual rates

  We compared multiple quotes for riders with this profile in Dallas, Texas:

  • Single
  • Newly licensed for motorcycles
  • No recent vehicle accidents or violations
  • Motorcycle safety course completed
  • 2019 Kawasaki Vulcan S
  • Full coverage

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

Typically, motorcycle riders need a minimum level of liability based on requirements for their state. Many riders add collision coverage to cover damage to their own bike, plus comprehensive for theft, fire and other damage.

Most states require riders — regardless of their age — to provide proof of insurance before their bikes can be registered, just like with cars.

Even if motorcycle insurance isn’t a requirement in your state, it’s a good idea to purchase a policy. 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.

Compare motorcycle insurance companies

Sort by:

Name	Product	Roadside assistance	Accident forgiveness	Available states
Progressive motorcycle insurance		Optional	Yes	All 50 states	Enjoy some of the widest coverage with the lowest price thanks to add-ons and freebies like replacement cost coverage.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Allstate motorcycle insurance		Included free	Yes	All 50 states	One of the longest lists of coverage options for bikes, plus free perks like equipment coverage for your high-end riding gear.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
Liberty Mutual motorcycle insurance		Optional	No	All 50 states	Enjoy unique perks along with your wide bike coverage, like free accident forgiveness after going claims-free with any insurer.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...
The General motorcycle insurance		Optional	No	43 states	Avoid riding interruptions with acceptance as a high-risk driver, help with filing an SR-22 and instant access to proof of insurance.	Get quotes More Info	Compare	loading Fetching your data...

loading

Compare up to 4 providers

Clear selection

Compare

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 to cut back on insurance costs.
• Know your coverage needs. Don’t purchase more coverage than you need. Know the insurance requirements in your state 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, you’ll typically see a 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 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 providers. 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 lay-up 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 state 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.
• Bodily injury 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.
• Personal injury protection (PIP). If you’re injured in an accident, PIP helps cover your medical bills, including ambulance rides, hospital care and lost income.
• Roadside assistance. Covers the cost of towing and labor if your bike breaks down en route.
• Student discounts. Some providers, like Devitt, offer policy discounts for college and university students.

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 can be up to five times 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. Ask your parents or legal guardians — or yourself if researching on behalf of your teen — whether it’s possible to purchase motorcycle coverage through an existing provider. Bundling policies is more cost effective than purchasing a standalone policy.

Bottom line

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

Frequently asked questions about under-21 motorcycle insurance

• Does AAA have motorcycle insurance?

  Yes. AAA offers motorcycle insurance, but you need to be an AAA member to be eligible.

• Do I need insurance for my moped or scooter?

  Most states require moped and scooter owners to carry insurance. Find out how your vehicle is categorized in your state to learn more about 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 motorcycle than it is to insure a car, but young drivers of either vehicle class tend to pay more for their coverage.