Why is motorbike insurance so important?
There can be nothing quite like jumping on your motorbike, starting the engine and riding off with the feeling of the wind on your face. Winding in and out of traffic and hearing the sound your bike makes. However, whilst riding a motorcycle gives you a thrill like nothing else, it also comes with dangers that you need to be safely protected against. Whilst motorbike insurance won’t save your injuries if you are in an accident, having the right type of motorcycle insurance policy will protect your beloved bike from any damage.
With a wide range of policies available and different levels of cover depending on what you are looking for, it can be a challenge to ensure you have the right motorbike insurance for your needs. Will you be taking a pillion for example? How will you be using your motorbike, and what type of license do you have? This month, AVSCO takes a look at how you can find the best motorbike insurance to ensure your bike is always protected on the open road.
The questions you will be asked about your motorbike insurance
Let’s start by taking a look at the type of questions you will be asked for your motorbike insurance and the level of cover you can expect to receive:
Personal questions
Age, occupation and your home address – are important parts of your insurance as they could affect your premiums. Your insurer will want to know the type of security you have protecting your bike and where you plan to keep it during the day. As with any type of insurance, your age and driving experience will be a factor.
Understanding your bike
Make, model, modifications and accessories – the more expensive your bike the more your premium will cost. This is because it will cost more to fix or replace your bike if you are in an accident or it gets stolen. Any mods and accessories need to be declared – failure to declare means your insurance may be invalid.
Driving and biking history
License type, no claims and training – are you still on a provisional license? Keep note of the date you passed your CBT and remember that a CBT is only valid for two years. Your no claims bonus will have a huge impact on your premium so remember the number of years you have had your no claims. Have you completed any advanced motorcycle training? You will be deemed a safer rider if you have so we always recommend completing extra courses.
Driving a car, accidents, claims and convictions -Your car driving experience will count when looking at motorbike insurance so keep these details to hand. Accidents and claims have negative impacts on your premiums but failure to declare these may result in your insurance being cancelled or void. Convictions must also be declared but any expired convictions should not be held against you.
Finding the best motorbike insurance for you
Before we can understand which motorbike insurance is right for you, we need to look at the levels of cover available and what they mean:
Different license types and what they mean
Comprehensive – Definitely the safest way to insure your motorbike. Having fully comprehensive insurance means you are covered for almost anything – damage, accident, theft or fire. Ensure you understand exactly what your insurer covers however so read the small print before going ahead.
Third-party fire and theft – Be aware that with this type of cover you will not be covered for any damage sustained to your bike but you will be covered for the damage you do to others (vehicles or properties). You will also be covered from fire or theft.
Third-party only – The minimum level of motorbike insurance in the UK is third-party only. This level of cover will provide safety for any damage done to others’ property or vehicles but you will not be covered for any accident or incident. Whilst this may be the cheapest type of motorbike insurance available, you may be paying a lot more in the long run if you have an accident or your bike is damaged/stolen.
Whether you are an experienced rider or you still have a provisional license, we always recommend choosing an insurance provider that will give you the most cover so you are protected from anything that could happen. For this, comprehensive is the safest way forward and will give you peace of mind that you are protected whilst on the road and others are covered if you are in an accident that was your fault.
To find the best motorbike insurance policies on the market today, take a look at some comparison sites and look into insurance companies that specialise in providing motorbike insurance. Carole Nash would be a good place to start.
This may also interest you:
A guide to keeping your motorbike in good condition
Top 5 thrilling things to do with your motorbike
Motorcycle clothing, helmets and accessories with expert advice at AVSCO
AVSCO provides tailored motorbike training courses
If you are looking at getting your bike licence this year, AVSCO is here for you. For nearly 40 years, we have been providing exemplary training for a range of riders. From young novices to experienced bikers who would like to improve their skills, we have an experienced and qualified team of staff and trainers that are here to support you.
Take a look at our range of courses online or if you are looking for more information, give us a call and speak to a friendly member of staff who will be happy to answer any questions you have. We look forward to seeing you soon!