Motorcycle insurance is legally required in most states and protects you from the significant financial risks of riding. But motorcycle insurance works differently from auto insurance — and the right coverage depends on your bike, riding habits, and risk tolerance.
Video Overview
Motorcycle Insurance Explained: Coverage Types and How to Save
Source: Progressive Insurance
Motorcycle Insurance Coverage Types
- Liability: Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others. Required in most states.
- Collision: Covers damage to your motorcycle from a collision.
- Comprehensive: Covers non-collision damage — theft, vandalism, weather, fire.
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist: Covers you if hit by an uninsured driver.
- Medical payments: Covers your medical bills regardless of fault.
- Custom parts and equipment: Covers aftermarket parts and accessories not included in the standard policy.
- Roadside assistance: Towing and emergency services.
- Trip interruption: Covers expenses if your bike breaks down far from home.
What Motorcycle Insurance Costs
Average annual premiums:
- Liability only: $200–$500/year
- Full coverage (liability + collision + comprehensive): $500–$1,500/year
- Sport bikes: Higher — $800–$2,500/year
- Cruisers: Lower — $300–$800/year
Factors That Affect Your Rate
- Motorcycle type: Sport bikes cost significantly more to insure than cruisers or touring bikes
- Engine size: Larger engines = higher rates
- Age and experience: New riders pay more
- Riding record: Violations and accidents raise rates
- Location: Urban areas and high-theft areas cost more
- Annual mileage: More miles = more risk
- Storage: Garaged bikes cost less to insure
How to Lower Your Motorcycle Insurance Premium
- Complete a motorcycle safety course (MSF course) — earns 5–15% discount at most insurers
- Bundle with your auto or homeowners insurance
- Store your bike in a garage
- Install anti-theft devices
- Choose a less powerful bike
- Raise your deductible
- Ask about low-mileage discounts if you ride seasonally
- Compare quotes from multiple insurers
Best Motorcycle Insurance Companies 2026
- Progressive: Largest motorcycle insurer in the US. Competitive rates, strong coverage options, custom parts coverage.
- Dairyland: Specializes in motorcycle insurance. Good for high-risk riders.
- Markel: Excellent for vintage and collector bikes. Agreed value coverage available.
- Nationwide: Strong bundling discounts. Good for riders who also have auto/home with Nationwide.
- USAA: Best for military families. Lowest rates for eligible members.
