Image by Christel SAGNIEZ from Pixabay
(Photo : Christel SAGNIEZ from Pixabay)

If you are about to start taking your motorcycle out on the road, you first need to acquire insurance. 

But before you begin searching for quotes, make sure you know the following five things. You can then ensure you get the right level of coverage at an affordable cost. 

1. Liability Coverage Only Protects Others

In almost all states in the U.S., all motorcyclists must have liability coverage, which protects others. The form of insurance covers people who suffer bodily injuries or property damage that you cause in an accident. 

But liability insurance does not cover you for personal injuries or damage to your bike. 

Therefore, you should certainly consider taking out collision insurance, which will cover the damage minus your deductible

You should also consider getting comprehensive motorcycle insurance, which protects your bike from things like theft, vandalism, and fire. 

2. It Is Often Worth Taking Out Additional Coverage

It is highly recommended that you get liability coverage, collision coverage, and comprehensive coverage. 

But there are various other additional insurance options that you should consider. 

It is often worth taking out optional coverage so that you have complete peace of mind when riding your motorcycle. 

Many motorcyclists choose to get uninsured/underinsured insurance, which pays for losses to you and your property, such as your motorcycle, if you are involved in an accident with someone who is uninsured or does not have adequate insurance in place. 

You could also choose to get:

  • Rental coverage, which pays for a rental vehicle if your bike becomes damaged and you are unable to ride it. 

  • Accessory coverage, which can cover the cost of extras after an accident, such as wheels and custom paint jobs.

  • Lodging and food coverage, which can help you if you are away from home and experience a breakdown.

3. Various Factors Can Affect the Cost of Your Insurance Policy

As with car insurance, various different factors can affect the cost of your motorcycle insurance. 

Your location, your age, and your driving record can all influence your insurance rate. 

The type of bike you ride can also affect the cost. For example, sports bikes will almost always be more expensive to insure than cruisers. 

The age of your motorcycle and the number of miles you clock up each year can also affect the cost of your insurance. 

Where you store your bike can make a difference too. For instance, the insurance for motorcycles that are left overnight on the road outside your house tends to be more expensive than bikes that are stored in garages or on private property.

4. You Can Get Cheaper Insurance by Shopping Around

If you are looking for the most affordable insurance for motorcycle riders, it is imperative that you compare different insurers to get the best quote. 

Thankfully, that is quick and easy to do when you use a reputable online comparison site. 

All you need to do is provide your zip code to see a wide selection of motorcycle coverage quotes, which are tailored to your needs, instantaneously. 

5. You Could Get Discounts

When affordability is a top priority, you will want to look at discounts that are available. 

For example, you could get a discount on your motorcycle insurance by bundling your insurance policies or insuring multiple vehicles. 

By completing a motorcycle safety training course or installing a theft recovery system on your bike, you could qualify for a discount, too. 

Also, if you only ride during the spring and summer, you could get seasonal insurance to lower your costs. 

If you live in a low-crime area, you could get a discount, as well.