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Motorbikes are a popular mode of transportation for many riders, offering the thrill of the open road and the
freedom to explore. However, as with any vehicle, it's important to have insurance to protect yourself,
your
bike, and others on the road. Whether you're a seasoned rider or just starting out, understanding
motorbike
insurance is essential for your peace of mind and financial protection.
Understanding the Basics of Motorbike Insurance
Motorbike insurance provides financial protection in the event of an accident, damage, theft, or
third-party
liability. It's an essential requirement for riding legally on public roads, ensuring that you
can cover the
costs of potential damages or injuries caused by your bike. Additionally, motorbike insurance
policies may offer
optional extras like breakdown cover, personal accident cover, and cover for your riding gear.
Let's now explore
the different types of bike insurance available.
Different Types of Bike Insurance
When it comes to motorbike insurance, there are different types of cover to choose from, depending
on your needs
and budget. Here are some of the main types of bike insurance policies:
Comprehensive Insurance: This type of insurance covers damage to your own motorcycle as well as
third-party
liabilities. It typically offers a higher level of protection, including cover for accidental
damage, fire, theft,
and personal accident cover. With comprehensive insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing that
you are
well-covered in various situations.
Third-Party, Fire, and Theft Insurance: This type of insurance offers protection for third-party
liabilities,
fire damage, and theft of your motorcycle. It doesn't provide cover for accidental damage to
your own bike.
Third-party, fire, and theft insurance offers a more affordable level of cover, making it a
popular choice for
riders with lower-cost motorcycles.
Specialist Insurance: In addition to comprehensive and third-party, fire, and theft insurance,
there are
specialist insurance policies available for specific types of bikes. These policies cater to
classic bikes,
adventure bikes, and more, providing tailored cover to suit the unique requirements of these
motorcycles.
Optional Extras: Alongside the main types of insurance, you can also consider adding optional
extras to your
policy. These extras can include breakdown cover, legal protection, leathers cover, pillion cover,
and excess
protection. Adding these extras to your policy can provide additional peace of mind and protection
for your
motorcycle and personal belongings.
With an understanding of the different types of bike insurance, let's move on to discussing
the importance
of motorcycle insurance.
The Importance of Motorcycle Insurance
Motorcycle insurance is not just a legal requirement; it is crucial for protecting yourself and
your bike from
financial loss. Here are some reasons why motorcycle insurance is important:
Financial Protection: In the event of an accident, motorcycle insurance can cover the cost of
repairs or
replacement for your bike, as well as any damages caused to other vehicles or property. Without
insurance, these
expenses would have to be paid out of your own pocket, which can be financially overwhelming.
Legal Compliance: In most countries, having motorcycle insurance is a legal requirement for
riding on public
roads. Failing to have insurance can result in legal penalties, including fines, license
suspension, or even
imprisonment.
Protection Against Theft and Damage: Motorcycle insurance provides protection against theft,
fire damage, and
accidental damage to your bike. If your bike is stolen or damaged, the insurance company will
cover the cost of
repairs or replacement, allowing you to get back on the road quickly.
Personal Accident Cover: Motorcycle insurance policies often include personal accident cover,
providing
financial support in the event of injuries sustained while riding. This cover can help with
medical expenses, loss
of income, and even long-term disability, offering peace of mind for riders.
Legal Expenses Cover: In the unfortunate event of an accident, motorcycle insurance can cover
legal expenses,
such as hiring a lawyer or pursuing a legal claim. This can be especially helpful in navigating
complex legal
processes and ensuring your rights are protected.
Considering the importance of motorcycle insurance, it is essential to explore the available
options and choose
the right level of cover for your needs. Let's dive into motorbike insurance options in more
detail.
Remember: The type of bike you ride significantly impacts your premium. Sports bikes typically cost more to insure than cruisers.
Motorbike insurance policies can offer varying levels of cover, optional extras, and additional
benefits. By
understanding these options, riders can make an informed choice and select the insurance policy that
best suits
their needs.
Comprehensive Insurance and Its Coverage
Comprehensive insurance offers an extensive level of cover for your motorbike, providing protection
for your own
motorcycle as well as third-party liabilities. It includes cover for accidental damage, fire, theft,
and personal
accident cover. The coverage provided by comprehensive insurance includes:
Accidental Damage: Comprehensive insurance covers the cost of repairs or
replacement for your
motorbike in case of accidental damage, regardless of who is at fault. This can include damage
from collisions,
falls, or other types of accidents.
Fire Damage: In the unfortunate event of your motorcycle being damaged due to
fire,
comprehensive insurance will cover the cost of repairs or replacement. This coverage ensures that
you are
protected against such unforeseen circumstances.
Theft Protection: Comprehensive insurance provides cover for theft of your
motorbike. If your
bike is stolen, the insurance company will cover the cost of its replacement, allowing you to get
back on the road
without a financial burden.
Personal Accident Cover: Comprehensive insurance policies often include
personal accident
cover, providing financial support in case of injuries sustained while riding. This cover can
include medical
expenses, loss of income, and even long-term disability, offering peace of mind for riders.
Additional Benefits: Alongside the standard coverage, comprehensive insurance
policies may
offer additional benefits such as legal expenses cover, leathers insurance, excess protection, and
cover for
riding gear. These extras can enhance your level of protection and provide comprehensive coverage
for your
motorbike.
Comprehensive insurance is an excellent option for riders looking for comprehensive cover and peace
of mind.
However, it's important to consider your individual needs and compare different insurance
policies to find the
best fit for you.
Benefits of Third-party, Fire, and Theft Insurance
Third-party, fire, and theft insurance offers an alternative level of cover for riders, providing
protection for
third-party liabilities, fire damage, and theft of your motorbike. While it doesn't include
cover for accidental
damage to your own bike, third-party, fire, and theft insurance comes with its own benefits. Here
are some of the
advantages of opting for this type of insurance policy:
Third-Party Liabilities: Third-party, fire, and theft insurance cover your
legal liabilities
for any damages caused to third parties, including their vehicles or property. This ensures that
you are
financially protected if you are found responsible for an accident.
Fire Damage: In the event of your motorbike being damaged due to fire,
third-party, fire, and
theft insurance will cover the cost of repairs or replacement. This type of coverage provides
peace of mind,
especially in areas with higher fire risk.
Theft Protection: If your motorbike is stolen, third-party, fire, and theft
insurance will
cover the cost of its replacement. This protection ensures that you are not left out of pocket in
the unfortunate
event of theft.
Affordable Level of Cover: Third-party, fire, and theft insurance policies are
often more
affordable compared to comprehensive insurance. This makes it a popular choice for riders looking
for a balance
between cost and cover.
While third-party, fire, and theft insurance may not provide the same level of cover as
comprehensive insurance, it
can be a cost-effective option for riders with lower-cost motorcycles or those who want basic
protection against
fire damage and theft.
Did you know: Some insurers offer 'laid-up' cover for motorbikes not used during winter months, which can be cheaper than year-round insurance.
There are four main different types of motorbike use
Social, domestic and pleasure - Also known as SDP and SD&P. As the name suggests, you are
allowed to use your
motorcycle for social, domestic and pleasure while you are insured under SDP cover.
Social including commuting - Also known as SDPC and SDP inc. C and sometimes also known as
scooter-commuter. You
are allowed to use your motorcycle to commute to work and from work.
Business use class 1 - if you use our motorbike for business purposes such as traveling to
meetings by using your
bike then you are required to insure your bike under class 1 business use.
Delivery, courier and dispatch - if you are a courier or a delivery driver, delivering things
like small
packages, fast food then you are required to have this cover.
Which factors may have an impact on the premium of my motorbike insurance?
When it comes to bike insurance, several factors come into play when determining the cost of your
premium. Insurers
consider these factors to assess the level of risk associated with insuring your motorcycle.
Understanding these
factors can help you make informed decisions and potentially lower your insurance premium.
The Role of Motorbike Model in Insurance Cost
The type and model of your motorbike play a significant role in determining the cost of your
insurance premium.
Generally, high-powered bikes, such as sports bikes or bikes with powerful engines, tend to have
higher insurance
costs due to their greater risk profile. This is because these bikes are associated with higher
speeds and an
increased likelihood of accidents. On the other hand, smaller, less powerful bikes typically have
lower insurance
premiums. Additionally, classic motorcycles may require specialist insurance policies to ensure
comprehensive cover
for these unique and often valuable bikes. Consider the type and model of your motorbike when
obtaining insurance
quotes, as it can significantly impact your premium cost.
Age and Experience of the Rider
Another crucial factor that affects the cost of bike insurance is the age and experience of the
rider. Young riders
and those with less experience on the road tend to face higher insurance premiums, as they are
considered higher
risk by insurers. On the other hand, riders with years of experience, a clean riding history, and no claims bonus
eligibility may benefit from lower insurance premiums. Insurers take into account the number of
years of riding
experience, any claims made in the past, and the claims history of the policyholder when calculating
insurance
premiums. It's worth considering these factors when obtaining insurance quotes, as they can have
a significant
impact on your premium cost.
Impact of Location on Insurance Premium
The location where you live and primarily ride your motorbike also plays a role in determining your
insurance
premium. Insurance providers consider local crime rates, accident statistics, and population density
when assessing
the risk of insuring your bike. Urban areas with higher theft and accident rates may lead to higher
insurance
premiums, as the risk of claims is greater. On the other hand, rural locations with lower risk
profiles may result
in comparatively lower insurance costs. It's essential to keep this in mind when getting
insurance quotes, as
your premium may vary based on your location.
Tip: Joining a recognised motorcycle club can sometimes lead to insurance discounts.
Does Bike Insurance Cover Theft?
Theft protection is an essential consideration for motorcycle owners. Having your bike stolen can
be both
financially and emotionally devastating. Therefore, it's crucial to understand whether your bike
insurance
covers theft. In the next sections, we will explore theft coverage in motorcycle insurance, how to
enhance theft
protection for your bike, and additional cover options for your motorbike.
Understanding Theft Coverage in Motorcycle Insurance
Motorcycle insurance policies typically include theft coverage for your bike. If your motorcycle is
stolen, your
insurance company will cover the cost of its replacement, subject to the policy terms and
conditions. The level of
theft coverage provided may vary depending on the type of insurance policy you have. Comprehensive
motorcycle
insurance offers more comprehensive theft protection, including cover for the theft of your
motorbike. While
third-party, fire, and theft insurance policies may also offer theft coverage, it's important to
check the
policy documents to understand the extent of coverage provided by your insurance.
Additional Cover Options for Your Bike
In addition to the standard cover provided by motorbike insurance, there are several optional
extras available that
can further enhance your protection. These additional cover options cater to specific needs and can
be tailored to
your individual requirements. In the following sections, we will explore the benefit of personal
accident cover,
breakdown cover, and cover for your riding gear, such as your helmet and leathers.
The Benefit of Personal Accident Cover
It offers peace of mind, knowing that you and your pillion are covered in case of accidents.
Personal accident
cover can provide financial support for medical expenses, loss of income, and even long-term
disability resulting
from an accident. By adding this optional extra to your motorbike insurance policy, you can ensure
comprehensive
protection for unforeseen events on the road, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
Exploring Breakdown Cover
Breakdown cover ensures that assistance is provided if your motorcycle breaks down, either at home
or on the road.
This cover offers peace of mind, especially when traveling long distances or in unfamiliar places.
Some insurers may
even offer European breakdown cover, allowing you to have protection while riding abroad. Including
breakdown cover
as an optional extra in your motorbike insurance policy can enhance your level of protection and
provide reassurance
for all your journeys.
Importance of Cover for Helmet and Leathers
Cover for your helmet and leathers is an important additional consideration for riders. Insuring
your riding gear
provides protection for your valuable equipment in case of damage, theft, or loss. Motorcycle
helmets and leathers
can be expensive to replace, and having insurance cover for your riding gear ensures that you are
financially
protected. Including cover for your helmet and leathers as an optional extra in your motorbike
insurance policy
guarantees comprehensive protection for your motorcycle gear.
Remember: If you've modified your bike, always declare these changes to your insurer to ensure you're fully covered.
Choosing the Right Insurance Provider for Your Motorbike
Selecting the right insurance provider for your motorbike is essential to ensure that you receive
the best level of
cover, service, and value for money. With numerous insurance providers available, it's important
to consider
certain factors when making your decision. In the following sections, we will discuss what makes an
insurance
provider stand out and how to obtain a quote for motorcycle insurance.
What Makes an Insurance Provider Stand Out?
There are several factors that can distinguish an insurance provider in the market. Key qualities
to look for when
choosing an insurance provider for your motorbike include:
Bike insurance prices: Often, the insurer you ultimately select is decided by the cost of the policy. Finding a great deal on bike insurance is easy, just click the Get Quotes button above and compare prices from over 20 different bike insurers.
Customer service ratings: Check out your potential new insurer's customer service ratings on websites like Trust Pilot or Google Reviews.
Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) Regulation: Ensure that your chosen insurance provider is
regulated by the
FCA, which signifies their compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Range of Optional Extras: Look for an insurance provider that offers a wide range of optional
extras, allowing
you to tailor your policy to your specific requirements.
By considering these factors, you can choose an insurance provider that stands out in terms of
policy options,
customer service, and overall value for money.
How to Make a Claim on Your Insurance
In the event of an accident, theft, or damage to your motorbike, it's important to know how to
file an
insurance claim. Understanding the process of making a claim can help ensure a smooth experience and
quick
resolution. In the following sections, we will provide a step-by-step guide to filing an insurance
claim, as well as
reasons why your claim might be denied. Let's start by understanding the process of filing a
claim on your
motorbike insurance policy.
Step-by-step Guide to Filing a Claim
Filing an insurance claim for your motorbike requires following a step-by-step process. While the
specifics may
vary depending on your insurance provider, here is a general guide to filing a claim on your
motorbike insurance
policy:
Gather Documentation: Collect all relevant documentation, including your policy documents,
accident or theft
reports, and any other supporting evidence.
Notify Your Insurer: Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to notify them of the
event, whether
it's an accident, theft, or damage to your motorbike.
Provide Information: Provide your insurance company with all necessary details, such as the
date, time, and
location of the incident, as well as any third parties involved.
Submit Documentation: Submit all required documents, including accident or theft reports, police
reports, and
any photographic evidence.
Cooperate with the Insurance Company: Work closely with your insurance company, providing any
additional
information, supporting documents, or evidence they may require to process your claim effectively.
Following these steps and cooperating with your insurance company will help ensure a smooth
claims process if
you experience an accident, theft, or damage to your motorbike. However, it's important to be
aware of why an
insurance claim might be denied.
Why Might an Insurance Claim Be Denied?
While insurance claims are intended to provide financial protection, there are situations where
claims might be
denied. Here are some common reasons for insurance claim denial:
Failure to Disclose Information: If you fail to provide accurate and complete information on
your insurance
application, your claim may be denied. It is crucial to be honest and transparent when applying
for insurance to
avoid any potential issues.
Misrepresentation or Fraud: If an insurance company determines that you have misrepresented
information or
committed insurance fraud, your claim will likely be denied. It is essential to provide truthful
and accurate
information throughout the insurance process.
Policy Exclusions: Insurance policies often have specific exclusions, and if your claim falls
under one of these
exclusions, it may be denied. It's crucial to review your policy documents carefully to
understand what is and
isn't covered.
Coverage Lapses: If your insurance policy lapses or is not active at the time of the event, your
claim will
likely be denied. It's essential to maintain an active insurance policy to ensure continuous
coverage.
Failure to Meet Requirements: If you fail to meet the requirements outlined in your insurance
policy, such as
reporting an accident within a certain timeframe, your claim may be denied. Complying with policy
requirements is
crucial to the claims process.
Understanding these reasons can help you avoid potential claim denial and ensure a smooth claims
experience.
How do the different grades of motorbike licenses work?
AM License is required for mopeds, small three-wheelers, and small quadbikes. To obtain this
license, you must
be at least 16 years old and pass the CBT, theory test, and practical test.
To acquire the Q License, you need an AM License. The Q License allows you to ride two and
three-wheeler mopeds
with a maximum speed of 25km/h. The minimum age requirement for the Q License is also 16.
For the A1 License, which permits riding light motorbikes up to 11kW and 125cc, as well as motor
tricycles up to
15kW, you must be at least 17 years old. Similar to the AM License, it entails passing the CBT,
theory test, and
practical test.
The A2 License grants permission to ride motorbikes with a power output of up to 35kW. To obtain
this license,
you need to be at least 19 years old. There are two ways to achieve the A2 License: direct access
or progressive
access. Direct access requires passing both the theory and practical tests. For progressive
access, you must have
held an A1 bike license for two years before taking an additional test.
Finally, the A License allows riders to operate unrestricted motorbikes. There are two options
for obtaining
this license: direct access or progressive access. For direct access, you need to be at least 24
years old (or 21
years old for progressive access). It involves passing the CBT, theory test, and practical test.
If opting for
progressive access, you must have held an A1 bike license for two years and pass an additional
test.
Standard motorcycle insurance may not provide coverage for various situations. These situations
encompass carrying
passengers without pillion cover, requiring additional coverage for sidecar attachments, and
undisclosed
modifications. Exclusions also apply to punctures, circuit track days, negligence such as leaving
keys in the bike,
and riding while under the influence. Additionally, general wear and tear, intentional damage, and
legal liabilities
resulting from these activities are not included in the policy. To obtain a comprehensive
understanding of your
policy's coverage, it is essential to verify the specifics with your insurance provider.
Motorbike Insurance Frequently asked questions
When working out the cost of premiums, motorbike insurance companies will
take into account different
factors to make the calculation:
Usage
History of riding
Your location
Age of rider
Amount of voluntary excess
Annual mileage
Place where you keep your motorbike.
Model of motorbike
Level of security
You can find out more in our beginners’ guide to bike insurance.
Insurance premiums for motorbikes are calculated based on various factors,
including the type of
bike, your riding
history, years of experience, claims bonus, and the cost of your insurance
package. Insurers use
these factors,
along with statistical data and risk assessment, to determine your premium
cost. While insurance
premium calculators
can provide an estimate, the final premium is determined by the insurance
company based on their
risk assessment.
It's important to provide accurate and up-to-date information when obtaining
insurance quotes to
ensure an
accurate premium calculation. By understanding the factors that influence
premium cost, riders can
make informed
decisions and potentially lower their insurance premiums.
Yes, it is possible to insure multiple bikes with the same insurance
provider. Many insurers offer
multibike
insurance policies that cater to riders who own multiple motorcycles. This
type of policy allows you
to cover all
your bikes under one policy, simplifying the insurance process and
potentially saving you money.
Whether you own
multiple motorbikes for personal use, collectors' bikes, or bikes for
different riding purposes,
such as
commuting and leisure, multibike insurance provides comprehensive coverage
for all your motorcycles.
By insuring
multiple bikes with the same provider, you can achieve cost savings and
streamline your insurance
experience.
Whether you can ride another person's bike on your insurance policy depends on your specific insurance coverage. Most comprehensive insurance policies will allow you to drive another person's motorbike, but not all do so check with your insurance provider. Additionally, some third-party, fire and theft policies will also cover you on someone else's bike, but again you should check with your insurer to be certain you have the necessary coverage.
Yes, there is insurance available for young riders who have recently
obtained their motorcycle
license. As young
riders generally face higher insurance premiums due to their perceived
higher risk, insurance
providers offer
specialised policies tailored to their needs. These policies take into
account factors such as age,
experience, and
the type of motorbike being insured. For young riders, it is
essential to shop
around, compare
insurance quotes, and consider additional safety precautions, such as
additional training, in order
to secure the
best insurance policy for their needs.
You can often add another person to your motorbike insurance policy, such as
a spouse, family
member, or friend,
but the specifics may vary depending on your insurance provider. Adding an
additional person to your
policy
typically requires specifying them as an additional rider or main rider,
depending on their level of
usage of the
motorbike. This additional cover may result in adjustments to your insurance
premium, as the
insurance company will
consider factors such as the additional rider's age, riding history, and
claims bonus
eligibility. It is
essential to discuss this with your insurance provider and check the policy
documents to ensure that
your additional
rider is appropriately covered.
Bike modifications, such as aftermarket accessories, tuning, or
customisation, can impact your
motorbike insurance
coverage. While some insurers may provide cover for certain modifications,
others may not include
them in their
standard policies. It's important to check your policy documents or speak
with your insurance
provider to
understand the extent of coverage for bike modifications. Additionally, you
may need to inform your
insurance
company about any modifications made to your motorbike, as failure to
disclose changes could result
in claim denial
or policy cancellation. Understanding the coverage for bike modifications in
your motorbike
insurance policy can
help ensure comprehensive protection for your modified bike.
When it comes to using your motorbike abroad, it's important to check your
insurance policy.
Different policies
have different coverage for riding in other countries. Make sure you have
the necessary documents
and are aware of
the driving laws and regulations in the country you're visiting.
Passenger coverage in your motorbike insurance depends on your policy. Some
policies include it,
while others may
not. To understand what's covered, review your policy and speak with your
insurance provider. If
passengers
aren't covered, you may need additional coverage or liability waivers.
Yes, it is possible to lower your motorcycle insurance premium. One way is
by choosing a higher
excess, which
typically leads to lower premiums. Additionally, maintaining a clean driving
record and completing a
safety course
may make you eligible for discounts. Don't forget to compare quotes from
different insurance
companies to find
the best deal.
CBT is the abbreviation for Compulsory Basic Training; all riders of
motorbike and mopeds must have
this before
setting out on the road. Occasionally, it is not compulsory if you have
possessed a valid driving or
moped licence
for a long time; however, it is best for all riders to have a CBT. For more
information, visit Gov.UK
website.
Your NCB
only applies to
a single motorbike; you can transfer it to an alternative bike, for example
when trading in your
bike and buying a
new one, but it will not be valid on an additional motorcycle or another
vehicle.
There are
some providers
who will offer discounts or permit you to replicate your no claims bonus on
a second motorbike; it
is best to
check on various incentives with individual insurers.
Sixteen
year olds who
want to ride a moped or a scooter on the road must be in possession of a
valid provisional
licence; it is
mandatory to have completed a CBT course, and L-plates must be displayed
(known as D plates in
Wales). You are
forbidden from carrying a passenger or riding on a motorway.
Imported
motorbikes are
subject to the same criteria as other vehicles and need to have valid
insurance cover before
taking out onto the
road. Parallel imports are usually simple to get insured, whereas grey
imports may be more
difficult. If you enter
your details in our simple, user-friendly process for obtaining a quote, you
can obtain a list of
insurers who can
offer a quote.
When you
take out
motorbike insurance, you will need to declare how you intend to use your
bike. The main options
for usage are
social, domestic and pleasure; you may need an add-on or different policy
for commuting, business
use, courier and
delivery. Find out more here: insuring a motorbike for work use.
There are
some insurance
providers who may permit you to use your NCB from your car on your
motorbike; however, this is
unusual and the
reverse of transferring motorbike NCB to car is not permitted.
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