Top FAQs About Motorcycle Insurance Answered

Motorcycle insurance is one of those things riders know they need—but many still have a ton of questions about it. Whether someone’s a brand-new biker or has been riding for decades, there’s always more to learn about how motorcycle insurance works, what’s covered, what’s not, and how to make sure they’re not overpaying. This blog post dives into the top frequently asked questions about motorcycle insurance in 2025, breaking things down in plain English to help every rider make better, more informed choices.

What Does Motorcycle Insurance Actually Cover?

Motorcycle insurance usually covers damage to the bike, injury to the rider or others, and liability for damage caused to property or people. The most common components include liability coverage (for when a rider is at fault in an accident), collision coverage (damage from a crash), and comprehensive coverage (for theft, vandalism, or natural disasters). There’s also medical payments coverage and uninsured motorist coverage, which kicks in if the other driver doesn't have insurance.

Is Motorcycle Insurance Required by Law?

Yes, in most states and countries, motorcycle insurance is mandatory. At the very least, riders are typically required to have liability insurance. This protects others if the rider causes an accident. However, laws vary depending on where the rider lives. It’s a good idea to check local laws to see exactly what kind of motorcycle insurance coverage is required.

How Much Does Motorcycle Insurance Cost?

It depends on a few key things—like the type of bike, the rider’s age and driving history, and the coverage limits they choose. Sport bikes are generally more expensive to insure than cruisers or touring bikes. On average, riders might pay anywhere from $200 to $1,500 per year for motorcycle insurance. Safe riders with clean records usually get better rates, while younger riders or those with tickets or past claims often pay more.

What Affects My Motorcycle Insurance Premiums?

A lot of factors go into determining how much a rider will pay. Some of the biggest ones include:

• The rider’s age and gender
  
  

• Riding experience and license type
  
  

• The make, model, and age of the motorcycle
  
  

• Where the bike is stored
  
  

• How often the bike is ridden
  
  

• Accident and claim history
  
  

• Credit score (in some regions)
  
  

Insurance companies use all this data to calculate how risky a rider is to insure. The lower the risk, the lower the premium.

Is Full Coverage Worth It for My Bike?

Full coverage motorcycle insurance includes both collision and comprehensive coverage. If the bike is brand new, financed, or worth a lot of money, then yes—full coverage is probably worth it. It means the bike is protected not just from accidents, but also from theft, fire, vandalism, and even weather damage. For older or less valuable bikes, riders may consider liability-only coverage to save money.

Do Modifications Affect My Motorcycle Insurance?

Definitely. If a rider adds custom parts or performance upgrades, they should let their insurance company know. Some modifications can increase the value of the bike or affect its performance, which could raise premiums. Some insurers offer coverage for custom parts and equipment (CPE) as an add-on. Not disclosing mods could mean those parts won’t be covered if something happens.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Passengers?

Not always. Some motorcycle insurance policies include passenger liability coverage automatically, while others require riders to purchase it separately. If a rider regularly carries a passenger, they should double-check their policy to make sure there’s proper protection for them too.

Can I Pause My Motorcycle Insurance in the Off-Season?

Yes, some insurance companies allow riders to put their coverage on hold during winter or when they’re not riding. This is known as “lay-up” insurance. It typically removes liability and collision coverage while keeping comprehensive coverage active. That way, the bike is still protected from theft or damage while stored, but riders save money.

Does My Motorcycle Insurance Cover Me on the Track?

No, standard motorcycle insurance policies don’t cover racing or track days. Riding on a closed course is considered high-risk, and it’s not part of normal street use. Riders who plan to participate in track events need to look into specialized track day insurance or event-specific coverage.

Can I Bundle My Motorcycle Insurance with Other Policies?

Absolutely. Many insurance companies offer discounts for bundling multiple policies—like motorcycle insurance with auto or home insurance. It’s one of the easiest ways to save money while keeping everything under one provider.

How Can I Lower My Motorcycle Insurance Premiums?

There are several smart ways riders can bring down their premiums:

• Take a certified motorcycle safety course
  
  

• Install anti-theft devices or GPS trackers
  
  

• Choose a less powerful or lower-risk bike
  
  

• Keep a clean driving record
  
  

• Raise the deductible
  
  

• Bundle with other insurance products
  
  

• Pay the premium annually instead of monthly
  
  

Shopping around and comparing quotes from different insurers is also one of the most effective ways to find better deals.

Does Credit Score Impact Motorcycle Insurance Rates?

In many places, yes. Insurers often use credit-based insurance scores to help determine premiums. Studies show that people with higher credit scores tend to file fewer claims. Riders with poor credit may pay more, even if they’ve never had an accident. However, some states prohibit the use of credit scores in pricing insurance, so it varies.

What Should I Do After an Accident?

After making sure everyone is safe, riders should:

• Call emergency services if needed
  
  

• Exchange contact and insurance details with others involved
  
  

• Take photos of the scene, bike, and any injuries
  
  

• Contact their insurance provider to start a claim
  Acting quickly and staying calm helps the claims process go more smoothly.
  
  

Conclusion

Motorcycle insurance can feel complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. By understanding what’s covered, what affects the cost, and what riders can do to save money, it’s much easier to choose the right policy. Whether someone’s riding daily or just on weekends, motorcycle insurance is essential for peace of mind and financial protection.

Call to Action

Ready to hit the road with confidence? Make sure your motorcycle insurance fits your ride and your lifestyle. Get a quote today, review your policy details, and ride smarter—because peace of mind is the best gear you can wear.