Motorcycle Insurance: What Determines Cost

Motorcycle insurance is priced on many of the same factors as auto insurance, but with two differences that dominate: engine displacement and rider experience. A sport bike ridden by a young rider is one of the most expensive things to insure on the road; the same rider on a modest standard bike pays a fraction as much.

The factors that move your rate

• Engine size. Larger displacement means higher speed potential and higher premium, with sport bikes carrying a surcharge.
• Rider age and experience. Under-25 riders pay the most; a few years of clean riding history lowers the rate sharply.
• Location. Theft rates, weather and claim frequency vary widely by zip code.
• Coverage choices. Liability, collision, comprehensive and medical-payments limits set the price.
• Riding record. Tickets and at-fault accidents raise the premium for years.

Premium ≈ base rate × engine class × rider factors × coverage

Coverage to consider

• Liability. Required in most states, and essential - a motorcycle claim can involve serious injury.
• Collision and comprehensive. Repair or replace your own bike after a crash or theft, important for financed bikes.
• Medical payments. Your health insurance may not cover everything after a crash.
• Uninsured motorist. Protects you if a driver with no insurance causes the crash.
• Custom parts and accessories. Add this if you have upgraded the bike.

Riding gear and safety discounts

Completing a rider safety course, wearing certified gear, and installing antitheft devices often reduce premiums. Many insurers also discount for bundling with auto and for paying the year in full.

Frequently asked questions

Is motorcycle insurance required? Liability coverage is required in nearly every state to ride legally on public roads.

Does it cover passengers? Liability typically extends to a passenger's injuries, but confirm the limits on your policy.

Estimate your premium with the calculator below.