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Motorcycle Insurance For International Travel

If you’re desiring to roll some serious mileage on two wheels but the roadways leading to all the familiar haunts (Sturgis, Daytona, Laguna Seca, et al.) are seeming somewhat lackluster, the cure may be to ride outside your national comfort zone and travel abroad. A foreign escapade brings with it a litany of uncertainties, one being insurance and how to make sure you’re covered in the worst-case scenario, a long way from home in a place where English isn’t the ubiquitous language.

The easiest route for Americans is to simply pack up your bike and head north, eh. As similar as it may be, Canada is a foreign country, and for anyone wanting a trial run to familiarize oneself with passports, border crossings, metric road signs, currency exchange and the looming thrill of getting lost, Canada provides a relatively safe environment in which to experiment. And, to simplify the matter even further, most insurance policies cover you and your bike while in Canada. But don’t just assume, place a quick call to your insurance provider to first confirm you’re covered before riding out.

Although a part of the North American continent, traveling south to Mexico will provide a greater level of unfamiliarity than a Canadian experience. Not only are roadsigns metric, they’re written in Spanish and the deeper south you ride the less spoken English you’ll hear. You’ll certainly want to establish the terms of your insurance policy and examine purchasing additional coverage prior to crossing the border.

When traveling, also consider purchasing international medical insurance, which can provide coverage for emergency medical, evacuation and repatriation while traveling outside your home country. Emergency medical evacuations will get you out of a remote area and transported to a place where you can receive proper medical care, while repatriation coverage ensures your body will be properly transported home or to a nearby funeral home.

Travel medical insurance generally provides for:

• Reimbursement for unexpected medical and dental costs
• Help obtaining emergency medical transportation when you are injured
• Payment for emergency medical evacuation services, including medical care
• Emergency travel assistance to help you locate a local medical facility
• Accidental death and dismemberment to help take care of your family if you are seriously injured or killed while traveling

If you plan on taking an overseas trip, the expense of such an endeavor requires you to consider trip-cancellation insurance. Trip cancellation (and trip interruption) insurance provides reimbursement of prepaid nonrefundable costs in the case of a cancellation or interruption due to a covered reason. With trip cancellation insurance, an unexpected occurrence such as illness, a visa or passport delay, business conflict, etc., will not cause you to forfeit a large sum of money.

When traveling to a country with an unrideable ocean in between, a motorcyclist must consider whether to ship his own bike or rent a motorcycle upon arrival. Another consideration is touring solo or purchasing a spot in a tour group such as Edelweiss .

If you plan to ship your own bike, the same advice above applies: check with your insurance provider to understand your current coverage and whether or not you need to purchase special international insurance, travel medical insurance, and trip cancellation insurance. If you’re traveling with a tour group and using one of their motorcycles, insurance for the bike is usually provided by way of your deposit. Traveling with a tour company also helps lessen the pressure and anxiety of touring in a foreign country with different laws, languages, procedures, money – they may even have you riding on the wrong side of the road.

Lastly, consider purchasing either a temporary international plan for your cell phone or a prepaid, disposable phone when you arrive. It also never hurts to have a good motorcycle GPS. Safe travels!

A former Motorcycle.com staffer who has gone on to greener pastures, Tom Roderick still can't get the motorcycle bug out of his system. And honestly, we still miss having him around. Tom is now a regular freelance writer and tester for Motorcycle.com when his schedule allows, and his experience, riding ability, writing talent, and quick wit are still a joy to have – even if we don't get to experience it as much as we used to.

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Motorcycle travel insurance: why you need it for your next adventure.

Motorcycle travel can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with its own set of risks. From unexpected accidents to lost luggage, there are many things that could go wrong on a motorcycle trip. That's where motorcycle travel insurance comes in.

Motorcycle travel insurance is designed to protect you and your bike while you're on the road. It can cover a wide range of situations, including medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen gear, and more. With the right coverage, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you're protected in case anything goes wrong.

However, not all motorcycle travel insurance policies are created equal. It's important to carefully review the coverage options and exclusions to ensure that you're getting the protection you need. 

Why You Need Motorcycle Travel Insurance

Coverage benefits.

Traveling on a motorcycle can be an exciting and adventurous way to explore new places. However, it also comes with its own set of risks. Motorcycle travel insurance can provide coverage for a variety of benefits, including:

• Emergency medical expenses
• Cancellation or interruption of your trip
• Lost or stolen luggage and personal belongings
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation
• Accidental death and dismemberment

Having these benefits can give you peace of mind while traveling, knowing that you are protected in case of unexpected events.

Common Risks

Motorcycle travel can be riskier than other forms of travel. Some common risks that motorcycle travelers face include:

• Accidents and injuries
• Illness or medical emergencies
• Theft or loss of personal belongings
• Weather-related incidents
• Unforeseen trip cancellations or interruptions

Having motorcycle travel insurance can help mitigate these risks and provide protection in the event that something goes wrong during your trip.

Cost Comparison

The cost of motorcycle travel insurance can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as your age, destination, length of trip, and coverage options. However, it is important to compare the cost of insurance to the potential cost of not having it. For example, if you were to get injured or have to cancel your trip, the cost of medical expenses or lost deposits could far exceed the cost of insurance.

Comparing different insurance policies and providers can help you find the best coverage at a reasonable price. It is also important to read the fine print and understand exactly what is covered and what is not.

Types of Motorcycle Travel Insurance

Single trip insurance.

Single trip insurance is a great option for those who are planning on taking a one-time trip on their motorcycle. This type of insurance provides coverage for a specific trip, typically ranging from a few days to a few weeks. If you are planning a longer trip, you may want to consider annual insurance instead. Single trip insurance typically includes coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency assistance while on your trip.

Annual Insurance

Annual insurance is a good choice for those who plan to take multiple trips throughout the year. With annual insurance, you can take as many trips as you like within a 12-month period, with each trip typically lasting up to 90 days. This type of insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency assistance, just like single trip insurance. It may also include coverage for personal belongings and rental vehicle excess.

Group Insurance

If you are planning a group motorcycle trip, you may want to consider group insurance. This type of insurance provides coverage for a group of people traveling together, typically up to 10 people. Group insurance can be customized to fit the specific needs of your group, and may include coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, and emergency assistance. It may also include coverage for personal belongings and rental vehicle excess.

How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Travel Insurance

Coverage limitations.

When choosing motorcycle travel insurance, it's important to consider the coverage limitations. Make sure the policy covers the countries you plan to visit and the activities you plan to do, such as off-road riding or racing. Additionally, check the policy's medical coverage, including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation. Look for a policy that covers the full cost of medical treatment, including hospitalization, doctor visits, and medication.

Exclusions are situations or circumstances that the policy does not cover. It's important to carefully read the policy's exclusions section to understand what is not covered. Common exclusions for motorcycle travel insurance include pre-existing medical conditions, reckless behavior, and participating in illegal activities. Additionally, some policies may exclude coverage for certain types of motorcycles or riding in certain areas.

Policy Inclusions

Policy inclusions are the benefits and features that are included in the policy. Look for a policy that includes coverage for trip cancellation or interruption, lost or stolen luggage, and trip delay. Additionally, consider policies that offer roadside assistance, rental vehicle coverage, and personal liability coverage. Make sure to read the policy's terms and conditions carefully to fully understand what is included. When choosing the right motorcycle travel insurance, it's important to consider your individual needs and circumstances. Carefully review the policy's coverage limitations, exclusions, and inclusions to ensure that you have the right coverage for your trip.

How to Buy Motorcycle Travel Insurance

Online purchase.

One of the most convenient ways to buy motorcycle travel insurance is online. Many insurance providers offer online purchase options, which allow you to compare different policies and prices and select the one that suits your needs the best. We like to use InsureMyTrip , they provide a really convenient way to comparison shop. Enter your information once and compare several companies. 

To buy motorcycle travel insurance online, follow these simple steps:

• Visit the website of a reputable insurance provider - we like InsureMyTrip for the ease of comparing coverage
• Select the type of travel insurance you need (in this case, motorcycle travel insurance)
• Enter your travel dates and destination
• Choose the level of coverage you require
• Provide personal and travel details, such as your age, medical history, and trip itinerary
• Review the policy terms and conditions, and make sure you understand what is covered and what is not
• Make the payment using a secure online payment method, such as a credit card or PayPal
• Receive your policy documents via email or download them from the insurer's website

Through a Travel Agent

If you prefer to buy motorcycle travel insurance through a travel agent, you can do so by contacting a travel agency that specializes in adventure travel or motorcycle tours. These agents can help you find the right policy for your needs, and provide you with valuable advice on travel safety and health. To buy motorcycle travel insurance through a travel agent, follow these steps:

• Research travel agencies that specialize in motorcycle tours or adventure travel
• Contact the agency by phone or email, and explain your travel plans and insurance needs
• Ask the agent to provide you with different policy options and prices
• Compare the policies and select the one that provides the best coverage for your trip
• Provide the agent with your personal and travel details, and make the payment
• Receive your policy documents from the agent, either via email or in person

Through an Insurance Broke r

If you want to buy motorcycle travel insurance through an insurance broker, you can do so by contacting a licensed insurance broker in your area. These brokers can help you find the right policy for your needs, and provide you with expert advice on insurance options and requirements. To buy motorcycle travel insurance through an insurance broker, follow these steps:

• Research licensed insurance brokers in your area
• Contact the broker by phone or email, and explain your travel plans and insurance needs
• Ask the broker to provide you with different policy options and prices
• Provide the broker with your personal and travel details, and make the payment
• Receive your policy documents from the broker, either via email or in person

Don't Overlook Travel Insurance - It's better to have it and not need it!

You should not overlook travel insurance for your upcoming trip. We have partnered with InsureMyTrip , because they are the best option to compare plans and find the right coverage for you. They have thousands of travel insurance plans and a one-of-a-kind recommendation engine to help travelers find the right plan. Most importantly, they will be there for you before, during, and after your trip if you should need anything - especially help with a claim with the provider.

Get a Quote from InsureMyTrip

Get access to several providers to get a quote based on your specifics, compare providers, and purchase simply and efficiently. 

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Motorcycle travel insurance.

Travelling is an exciting experience, especially when you’re on the back of a motorbike. It’s an adventure that allows you to experience the true essence of a place, and feel the wind in your face as you explore new destinations. However, with this adventure comes risk, and it’s essential to have proper insurance coverage to protect yourself and your motorcycle during your travels.

What is Motorcycle Travel Insurance?

Motorcycle travel insurance is a specialized type of insurance that provides coverage for motorcyclists who are travelling domestically or internationally. It covers the costs associated with accidents, theft, damage to your motorcycle, medical expenses, and more.

What Does Motorcycle Travel Insurance Cover?

The coverage provided by motorcycle travel insurance varies depending on the policy and the insurer. However, the most common coverage options include:

• Accidents: This coverage pays for damages resulting from an accident, including medical expenses, repair costs, and liability to third parties.
• Theft: This coverage protects you against theft of your motorcycle or its accessories.
• Medical Expenses: This coverage pays for medical expenses incurred as a result of an accident or illness while travelling.
• Cancellation and Interruption: This coverage reimburses you for non-refundable travel expenses if your trip is cancelled or interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances.
• Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation: This coverage provides emergency medical transportation or evacuation services in the event of an injury or illness while travelling.

Do I Need Motorcycle Travel Insurance?

While motorcycle travel insurance is not mandatory, it’s highly recommended for anyone planning to travel on a motorcycle. Accidents can happen anywhere, and the costs associated with medical care and damages can be overwhelming, especially in a foreign country. Having motorcycle travel insurance provides peace of mind and protects you from financial loss in the event of an accident or unforeseen circumstances.

How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Travel Insurance?

Choosing the right motorcycle travel insurance policy can be overwhelming, but here are a few things to consider:

• Coverage: Make sure the policy covers your needs, including medical expenses, accidents, theft, and other potential risks.
• Deductibles: Consider the amount of the deductible or excess, which is the amount you’re responsible for paying before the insurance kicks in.
• Price: Compare the prices of different policies to find the one that offers the best value for your money.
• Reputation: Choose a reputable insurance company with good customer reviews to ensure prompt and efficient service in case of an emergency.

Motorcycle travel insurance is an essential investment for anyone planning to explore new destinations on a motorcycle. It offers peace of mind, protects you from financial loss, and ensures that you can enjoy your trip without worrying about the unexpected. Choose the right motorcycle travel insurance policy and enjoy your adventure to the fullest.

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Motorcycle Travel Insurance: Why It’s Essential for Riders

Riders know the importance of being prepared. One essential aspect for road motorcycling travelers that should never be overlooked is securing comprehensive motorcycle travel insurance to protect against nonrefundable expenses. This motorcycle insurance coverage not only protects you but also your beloved bike, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey. Make sure to get the proper insurance for your travel insurance plan or travel insurance package.

Motorcycle travel insurance is a must-have for motorcycling travelers looking to explore new horizons and book flights with World Nomads. Motorcycle insurance provides proper insurance and coverage for motorcyclists, offering financial protection in case of accidents, theft, or damage to your bike while traveling. It offers medical coverage through the travel health insurance plan in the event of any unforeseen injuries sustained during your trip. Make sure to get the proper insurance by choosing the right travel insurance package. With the right motorcycle coverage insurance policy in place, you can confidently hit the open road knowing that your health and well-being are well-protected by nib travel services. Trust us to provide the coverage you need for a worry-free journey.

Don’t leave home without motorcycle travel insurance – it’s an investment that can rescue you from potential financial burdens and provide invaluable support when you need it most in the world. So buckle up and embark on your next adventure with confidence, knowing that you have the necessary single-trip insurance, travel health insurance, and travel medical insurance coverage to protect yourself and your bike. Trust in Nib Travel services for all your travel insurance needs.

Coverage Options for Motorcycle Trips

Having the right insurance coverage is essential. It’s important to explore various travel medical insurance and travel health insurance coverage options tailored specifically for motorcycle trips to ensure you have adequate protection throughout your journey. Consider using nib travel services for added peace of mind and potential rescue assistance.

Medical Expenses Coverage

One of the key coverage options for motorcycle trips is medical expense coverage provided by health insurance. This coverage ensures that you are protected in case of any unforeseen accidents or injuries during your trip. It is always recommended to have adequate health insurance coverage, such as nib travel services, to ensure your safety and well-being while traveling. In case of an emergency, having the right health insurance can be a rescue and provide you with the necessary financial support for medical expenses. Accidents can happen at any time, and being prepared for unexpected injuries is crucial. This is especially true for motorcycle riders , who should make sure they have adequate motorcycle coverage and health insurance. Additionally, it’s important to consider travel medical insurance for those who frequently travel by motorcycle. In case of an accident or emergency, having these types of insurance can provide the necessary rescue and medical assistance needed. With nib travel services, you can rest assured that your health insurance will cover your medical expenses in case of an accident during your trip. Additionally, you can count on their rescue services for any emergencies.

Trip Cancellation Coverage

Another important aspect of motorcycle travel insurance is trip cancellation coverage . Sometimes, unforeseen circumstances may force you to cancel or cut short your trip. With nib travel services, you can have peace of mind knowing that you are covered with medical insurance. This could be due to personal reasons, adverse weather conditions, or any other unexpected event that may require medical insurance or the assistance of nib travel services. Having trip cancellation coverage from NIB Travel Services ensures that you are protected from losing non-refundable expenses such as flights and accommodations.

Accident and Theft Coverage

Accidents and theft are unfortunate events that can occur during a motorcycle trip. To safeguard yourself against these risks, it’s vital to have accident and theft coverage in place. This type of insurance provides financial protection in case of damage to your motorcycle due to an accident or if it gets stolen during your journey.

Additional Coverage Options

In addition to the above-mentioned coverage options, there are other aspects you should consider when selecting a motorcycle travel insurance plan:

• Emergency Assistance : Look for plans that offer 24/7 emergency assistance services. This can be extremely helpful if you find yourself in a difficult situation while on the road.
• Personal Liability : Personal liability coverage protects you financially if you cause damage or injury to someone else while riding your motorcycle.
• Gear and Equipment Coverage : If you carry valuable gear or equipment with you on your motorcycle trips, make sure your insurance policy covers them in case they get damaged or stolen.
• Legal Assistance : Some policies also provide legal assistance coverage, which can be beneficial if you encounter any legal issues during your trip.

It’s important to carefully review the coverage options and exclusions of different motorcycle travel insurance policies . Each option may have its own set of inclusions and exclusions, so make sure you understand what is covered and what is not before making a decision.

Remember, having comprehensive coverage for your motorcycle trip gives you peace of mind and protects you from unexpected financial burdens. So, don’t overlook the importance of motorcycle travel insurance when planning your next adventure on two wheels.

Benefits of International Motorcycle Touring with Travel Insurance

Embarking on an international motorcycle tour is an exhilarating experience that allows riders to explore new territories and soak in the beauty of different cultures. However, it’s important to remember that unexpected situations can arise, and having travel insurance specifically designed for motorcycle trips is essential. Let’s dive into why having motorcycle travel insurance is a must for riders venturing abroad.

Enjoy peace of mind while exploring new territories on your international motorcycle tour with travel insurance.

Travel insurance provides a safety net that allows you to ride with confidence and peace of mind. It acts as a financial safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as accidents, theft, or medical emergencies. With the right coverage, you can focus on enjoying your journey without worrying about potential risks.

Get emergency assistance, language support, and medical evacuation services when riding abroad.

One of the key benefits of motorcycle travel insurance is access to emergency assistance services. When you’re in a foreign country where language barriers may exist, having support from your insurer can be invaluable. Whether you need help finding a local repair shop or require translation services during a medical emergency, your insurer will have resources in place to assist you promptly.

In addition to language support, many travel insurance policies also offer medical evacuation services. If you were to sustain a severe injury while riding abroad and needed specialized medical care not available locally, these services would cover the cost of transporting you back home or to the nearest suitable facility capable of providing adequate treatment.

Protect yourself from unexpected costs and emergencies that may arise during international motorcycle touring.

International motorcycle touring comes with its fair share of risks. Accidents happen even to experienced riders, and mechanical breakdowns can occur at any time. Without proper coverage in place, these incidents could result in significant financial burdens.

By investing in motorcycle travel insurance before setting off on your adventure, you protect yourself from unexpected costs associated with accidents or bike repairs. Insurance policies typically cover expenses such as medical bills, bike repairs, and even trip cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances.

Travel insurance can provide coverage for personal belongings that might be lost or stolen during your journey. This ensures that you won’t have to bear the financial burden of replacing valuable items while on the road.

To sum it up, motorcycle travel insurance is a crucial aspect of international motorcycle touring . It offers peace of mind, emergency assistance services, and protection against unexpected costs and emergencies. So before you rev up your engine and set off on your next adventure abroad, make sure you’re adequately covered with the right travel insurance policy designed specifically for motorcycle trips.

Choosing the Right Travel Insurance for Your Motorcycle Adventure

When planning a motorcycle adventure, it’s crucial to consider factors like trip duration, destination, and personal needs when selecting travel insurance. This ensures that you have proper coverage in case of any unforeseen circumstances. Here are some key points to keep in mind when choosing the right travel insurance for your motorcycle tour:

Trip Duration and Destination

Consider the length of your trip and the countries you plan to visit. Different travel insurance policies may have restrictions on the maximum duration of coverage or specific regions they cover. Ensure that the policy you choose aligns with the duration of your motorcycle tour and provides coverage for all the destinations you intend to explore.

Comprehensive Coverage at an Affordable Price

Compare different travel insurance policies to find one that offers comprehensive coverage at an affordable price. Look for plans that include benefits such as emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation/interruption, baggage loss/delay, and personal liability coverage. Assess the limits and exclusions of each policy to ensure they meet your specific requirements.

Specialized Motorcycle Travel Insurance Plans

Consider opting for specialized motorcycle travel insurance plans designed specifically for riders’ unique needs. These plans often offer additional benefits tailored to motorcycle enthusiasts , such as coverage for bike damage or theft, roadside assistance, and protection against accidents related to riding motorcycles.

Medical Coverage

Ensure that your travel insurance policy includes adequate medical coverage during your motorcycle adventure . Look for provisions like travel medical insurance or travel health insurance that cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, ambulance services, and repatriation if needed.

Luggage Protection

Protecting your belongings is essential while traveling on a motorcycle tour. Look for a travel insurance policy that provides coverage for lost or delayed luggage so that you can have peace of mind knowing that you’ll be compensated if anything happens to your belongings during your journey.

Compare Policies

Take the time to compare different travel insurance policies before making a decision. Look at the coverage, limits, deductibles, and premiums offered by each policy to find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Consider reading reviews or seeking recommendations from fellow riders who have previously purchased motorcycle travel insurance.

Additional Considerations

• Check if the policy covers pre-existing medical conditions if you have any.
• Assess the level of customer support provided by the insurance company.
• Look for policies that offer 24/7 emergency assistance services.
• Evaluate the claim process and ensure it is straightforward and hassle-free.

Remember, having proper travel insurance is essential for any motorcycle adventure. It provides financial protection and peace of mind so that you can focus on enjoying your journey without worrying about potential risks or emergencies.

Understanding Coverage: Injury, Equipment, and Rental Motorcycles

When embarking on a thrilling motorcycle adventure , it’s crucial to ensure that your travel insurance provides comprehensive coverage. From protecting yourself against injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident to safeguarding your valuable gear and equipment, having the right insurance coverage is essential for riders. Here’s what you need to know about injury coverage , equipment protection, and rental motorcycles when choosing your policy.

Ensure Your Travel Insurance Covers Injuries Sustained in a Motorcycle Accident While Traveling

One of the primary concerns for motorcycle riders is the risk of accidents and potential injuries while on the road. Therefore, it’s vital to select a travel insurance policy that specifically covers injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. Medical coverage should include expenses related to hospitalization, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.

Key Points:

• Look for policies with comprehensive medical coverage that includes emergency medical transportation.
• Check if there are any exclusions or limitations regarding pre-existing medical conditions.
• Ensure that your policy covers both minor injuries and major accidents requiring extensive medical treatment.

Protect Your Valuable Gear and Equipment with Adequate Coverage

As a rider, you understand the significance of your gear and equipment. Whether it’s your helmet, riding jacket, or other accessories, these items are not only essential for safety but also represent a significant investment. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose a travel insurance policy that offers coverage for damaged or stolen personal belongings.

• Opt for policies that provide sufficient compensation for lost or damaged gear.
• Verify if there are any restrictions on specific items or maximum claim limits.
• Keep records of receipts or proof of purchase to facilitate the claims process.

Verify If Rental Motorcycles Are Covered Under Your Chosen Policy

Renting a motorcycle can be an excellent option when traveling to new destinations. However, before hopping onto that rented bike, it’s important to verify if your chosen travel insurance policy covers rental motorcycles. This coverage ensures that you are protected from any liability or damages that may arise while using a rented bike.

• Check the terms and conditions of your policy to confirm if rental motorcycles are included.
• Understand the liability coverage provided for accidents involving a rented motorcycle.
• Ensure that the policy covers both damage to the rental bike and third-party property damage or injuries.

By understanding the importance of injury coverage, equipment protection, and rental motorcycle inclusion in your travel insurance, you can ensure a worry-free and enjoyable motorcycle adventure. Remember to carefully review the terms and conditions of your chosen policy to ensure it aligns with your specific needs as a rider.

Proper Licensing for International Motorcycle Travel

Before embarking on an overseas motorcycle journey , it is crucial to familiarize yourself with international licensing requirements. Ensuring that you possess the necessary licenses to legally ride motorcycles in foreign countries will save you from potential legal troubles and make your travel experience smoother.

Researching specific licensing regulations based on each country you plan to visit during your international motorcycling adventure is essential. Different countries have varying rules and regulations and being aware of these requirements will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises along the way.

Here are some key points to consider regarding proper licensing for international motorcycle travel :

Familiarize Yourself with International Licensing Requirements

Take the time to understand the licensing requirements of the countries you plan to visit. Each country may have its own set of rules regarding motorcycle licenses , including age restrictions, permit validity periods, and specific documentation needed. By familiarizing yourself with these requirements beforehand, you can ensure that you meet all necessary criteria and avoid any issues during your trip.

Possess the Necessary Licenses

Ensure that you possess a valid motorcycle license from your home country before traveling internationally. Many nationalities allow their citizens to use their domestic licenses in other countries for a limited period. However, this may not be the case everywhere. Some countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your home country license.

Research Country-Specific Regulations

Researching country-specific regulations is crucial as each nation has its own unique set of rules. Some countries may require additional permits or certifications beyond an IDP or home country license. For example, certain regions may mandate riders to obtain a local driving license or complete a motorcycle safety course before hitting the road.

Consult Local Authorities or Embassies

If you are uncertain about the licensing requirements for a particular destination, reach out to local authorities or consult your embassy for accurate information. They will be able to provide you with the most up-to-date details regarding licensing regulations, ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation in place before your trip.

Be Prepared for Potential Language Barriers

Keep in mind that language barriers may pose challenges when dealing with local authorities or rental agencies abroad. It’s a good idea to carry translated copies of your licenses and permits, as well as important contact information, to facilitate communication and avoid any misunderstandings.

By adhering to proper licensing requirements for international motorcycle travel, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Familiarize yourself with the regulations of each country, possess the necessary licenses, and consult local authorities or embassies if needed. With these precautions in place, you can focus on exploring new horizons on your motorcycle adventure.

Staying Safe on the Road: Tips for Motorcycle Riders

Wear appropriate safety gear.

To minimize the risk of injuries while riding, motorcycle riders must wear appropriate safety gear. This includes helmets and protective clothing such as jackets, pants, gloves, and boots. Helmets provide essential head protection in case of accidents or falls, while protective clothing can help reduce the severity of injuries to other parts of the body. By investing in quality safety gear and wearing it consistently, riders can significantly enhance their safety on the road .

Follow Traffic Rules and Stay Alert

Following traffic rules is paramount. Riders should adhere to speed limits, stop at red lights and stop signs, use turn signals when changing lanes or making turns, and yield right-of-way when necessary. Maintaining a safe speed is crucial for both rider safety and the safety of other road users. It’s also important for riders to stay alert at all times by scanning their surroundings for potential hazards such as distracted drivers or pedestrians.

Regularly Inspect Your Motorcycle

Regular motorcycle inspections are vital for ensuring safe rides. Before each journey, riders should inspect their bikes thoroughly to identify any potential issues that could lead to breakdowns or accidents. This includes checking tire pressure and tread depth, testing brakes and lights, examining fluid levels (such as oil and coolant), and ensuring that all components are securely fastened. By performing these routine checks and addressing any maintenance needs promptly, riders can minimize the risk of unexpected mechanical failures on the road.

Perform Necessary Maintenance

In addition to regular inspections, motorcycle owners must perform necessary maintenance tasks as recommended by manufacturers. This may include oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustments or lubrication, spark plug replacements, and brake pad inspections/replacements. Following a proper maintenance schedule helps ensure that motorcycles remain in optimal condition for safe operation. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased performance, increased risk of breakdowns, and potential safety hazards on the road.

Stay Prepared for Emergencies

Even with all the precautions in place, emergencies can still happen. Motorcycle riders should always be prepared for unexpected situations by carrying essential items such as a first aid kit, tool kit, spare parts (such as fuses or bulbs), and a mobile phone for emergency communication. It’s also advisable to have a basic understanding of motorcycle repair techniques in case minor repairs are needed on the road. Being prepared can help riders handle unforeseen circumstances efficiently and minimize disruptions to their journey.

Enjoying Peace of Mind with Motorcycle Travel Insurance

Motorcycle travel insurance is an essential investment for riders who want to enjoy their trips without the worry of unexpected expenses. By having adequate coverage, you can protect yourself financially from medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings. Here’s why motorcycle travel insurance is a must-have for any rider.

Focus on the Experience, Not the Problems

When you’re out on the road motorcycling through breathtaking landscapes or exploring new destinations, the last thing you want is to be preoccupied with potential mishaps. With motorcycle travel insurance, you can have peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong, you’re covered. Whether it’s a minor accident or a major health issue, your insurance policy will take care of the expenses so that you can focus on enjoying your ride.

Protect Your Finances

Medical emergencies can happen at any time and in any part of the world. Without proper insurance coverage, these unforeseen events can quickly drain your bank account. Motorcycle travel insurance ensures that you are protected financially in case of accidents or injuries during your trip. It covers medical expenses, hospitalization costs, and emergency evacuation if needed. By investing in a good insurance policy, you won’t have to worry about hefty medical bills ruining your riding experience.

Trip Cancellations and Lost Belongings

Imagine this: You’ve planned an epic motorcycle journey across different countries for months. But just days before departure, something unexpected happens – maybe a family emergency or sudden illness – forcing you to cancel your trip. Without travel insurance, all those non-refundable bookings and reservations would go down the drain along with your dreams of adventure.

However, with motorcycle travel insurance in place, you’ll be reimbursed for prepaid expenses if your trip gets canceled due to unforeseen circumstances like illness or injury. If your luggage gets lost or stolen during transit or while staying at a hotel, your insurance policy will cover the cost of replacing those belongings. This means you can continue your journey without missing a beat.

Choosing the Right Insurance Provider

There are several reputable providers to choose from. Take the time to research different insurance companies and compare their policies, coverage limits, and prices. Look for providers that specialize in motorcycle travel insurance, as they understand the unique needs of riders. Reading reviews and checking customer complaints can also give you insights into the quality of service provided by different companies.

In conclusion, motorcycle travel insurance is an essential investment for riders embarking on adventurous journeys. The coverage options available provide peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen circumstances. With the benefits of international motorcycle touring and the understanding of coverage for injuries, equipment, and rental motorcycles, riders can confidently explore new horizons.

Choosing the right travel insurance is crucial to ensure comprehensive protection throughout your motorcycle adventure. Proper licensing for international travel is also important to adhere to local regulations and avoid any legal complications. By following safety tips on the road and enjoying the peace of mind that comes with motorcycle travel insurance, riders can focus on their journey without worrying about potential mishaps.

To fully enjoy your motorcycle travels worry-free, consider investing in a reliable motorcycle travel insurance policy today. Protect yourself from unexpected accidents or emergencies that could otherwise derail your trip and incur significant expenses. Don’t let unforeseen events ruin your adventure – secure your peace of mind with comprehensive coverage tailored specifically for motorcycle enthusiasts.

What does motorcycle travel insurance cover?

Motorcycle travel insurance typically covers medical expenses in case of injury or accident while riding, theft or damage to your bike or equipment, trip cancellation or interruption due to unforeseen circumstances, emergency medical evacuation if needed, and liability coverage in case you cause damage or injury to others while riding.

Can I purchase motorcycle travel insurance if I have pre-existing medical conditions?

Yes, some insurers offer policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions; however, it’s essential to disclose all relevant information during the application process. Depending on the severity of your condition, there may be limitations or exclusions regarding coverage related to those specific conditions.

Is motorcycle travel insurance only valid for international trips?

No, depending on the policy you choose, motorcycle travel insurance can provide coverage both domestically and internationally. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of each policy carefully to understand the extent of coverage and any geographical limitations.

Can I get coverage for rental motorcycles?

Yes, many motorcycle travel insurance policies offer coverage for rental motorcycles. This can include both liability coverage and protection against theft, damage, or loss of the rented bike.

How much does motorcycle travel insurance typically cost?

The cost of motorcycle travel insurance varies depending on factors such as the duration of your trip, your age, the destination(s), and the level of coverage you choose. It’s advisable to obtain quotes from different insurers to compare prices and find a policy that suits your needs and budget.

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MOTORCYCLING TRAVEL INSURANCE POLICIES UK

All our motorcycling travel insurance policies will cover you for on-road motorcycling, with no cc restrictions, as long as you hold a FULL licence to be riding a bike of that size in your home country, and wear a crash helmet (even if local law doesn’t insist on it). On-road motorcycling touring does not necessarily have to be a tarmac road, but the road must be what passes for the road locally. 

Please note that these policies are NOT to insure your motorcycle and do NOT cover Third Party Liability (Personal Liability). These are Travel Insurance policies for bikers, to cover you whilst travelling by motorcycle abroad and on motorcycle holidays, for medical expenses etc.

They are only available to UK residents, though some Short Stay policies are also available to residents of certain other European countries. Whilst these policies cover Medical Expenses relating to motorcycling (ambulance, air ambulance, hospital costs, repatriation etc) most of these policies, including Navigator Silver, Pearl, Gold & Diamond, do NOT cover additional compensation for accidental Death, Loss of Limb, Loss of Sight, Disablement, arising from a motorcycling-related accident.

WHY DO YOU NEED MOTORCYCLE TRAVEL INSURANCE? 

Motorcycle travel insurance is essential for anyone who plans on booking a motorcycle holiday or taking their motorbike touring abroad. This includes anyone who plans on touring on their motorcycle, taking biking road trips, off-road motorbiking, and participating in track days.

Ensuring that you have the right motorcycle travel insurance policy for you will mean that you remain protected no matter where you go for all motorbike-related activities you may be embarking on during your motorcycle holidays. 

WHAT DOES TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR MOTORCYCLISTS COVER?

Depending on which motorcycle travel insurance policy you opt for, this will determine what you are and aren’t covered for during your motorcycle holidays. For example, some policies will cover both on-road and off-road motorcycle use in their travel insurance for motorcyclists, whereas some may only cover on-road.

It is worth noting that opting for additional off-road cover might incur additional costs. 

You must complete the necessary research into the different available motorcycle travel insurance policies to ensure that you choose a policy that is most suited for you and the travel and activities that you will be engaging in during your motorcycle holidays. 

WHEN IS ON-ROAD NOT ON-ROAD? (Navigator Silver, Gold & Diamond policies).

PLEASE NOTE – WE DO NOT ACCEPT THAT “EVENTS” SUCH AS MOTOGIRO DE ITALIA, STELLA ALPINA ETC, ARE ON ROAD, LEISURE MOTORCYCLE TOURING. WE CAN COVER THESE EVENTS, BUT ONLY ON MORE EXPENSIVE MOTORSPORT POLICIES, WHERE INDEPENDENT OFF-ROADING IS COVERED.

SIMILARLY, WE REGRET THAT INSURERS DO NOT REGARD NETWORKS SUCH AS TET (TRANS-EUROP TRAIL NETWORK) AS ON-ROAD MOTORCYCLING, AS THERE ARE NARROW SECTIONS WHERE YOU CANNOT GET A 4×4. UNFORTUNATELY, AS TET TOURING IS NOT GUIDED, TOUR OPERATOR ORGANIZED OFF-ROADING, WE CAN NO LONGER COVER IT UNLESS YOU ARE SURE THAT THE SECTIONS THAT YOU ARE RIDING ARE MARKED ON GENERAL MAPS AND ARE WIDE ENOUGH FOR OTHER TRAFFIC TYPES TO USE (WE WOULD THEN CLASS IT AS ON-ROAD RIDING).

IF YOU ARE NOT SURE ABOUT THE NATURE OF THE TET/ACT TRAILS THAT YOU WILL BE RIDING, THIS IS NOT A SUITABLE POLICY FOR YOUR TRIP.

We have recently lost our off-roading (Motorcycle Silver and Motorcycle Gold) policies, due to the underwriter pulling out.

We have motorcycle travel insurance policies with another underwriter, the Navigator Silver, Navigator Gold and Navigator Diamond, but these are principally for on-road motorcycling. True Off-Road motorcycling on personally guided organised tours can be covered, but only for a MAXIMUM of 7 days and at the Action Plus sport supplement, which doubles the cost. However, we have been talking to the underwriter and have agreed to relax rules relating to what constitutes on-road motorcycling. We now regard on-road motorcycling as :

1 – Riding legally on Highways and Byways that are available for motorised vehicles (i.e. green laning etc). They should be substantial enough for a 4WD to negotiate.

2 – They MUST be marked on a map as roads (not footpaths/bridleways, for example)

3 – They MUST be rights of way for motorised vehicles, i.e. NOT restricted byways for walkers, push bikes and horses, and NOT forest fire roads which are not open to unauthorised motorised vehicles.

4 – As a rule of thumb, if you don’t need a licence, motor vehicle tax and insurance to ride on it, we would regard it as off-roading and you would NOT be covered. Highways and byways with legal access for motorised vehicles would require these documents. Strangely, our insurers still require you to hold a FULL licence for the size of bike being used, even when off-road riding (don’t ask!). I suppose it’s the only way they have of knowing that you have some experience on a motorcycle…

5 – Unfortunately, Navigator Silver and Navigator Gold policies are not as generous as the old policies. These will NOT cover motorcycle touring trips of more than 31 consecutive days unless you pay the Action Plus sport supplement which increases this to 62 consecutive days. There is NO cover for the bike or your gear (helmets/leathers and boots etc) and NO cover for Motocross or competitive riding of any sort, and NO cover for Track Days, or true off-roading (other than 7 days guided organised tour at Action Plus supplement), Enduro etc. 

Long term on road motorcycling and competitive motorsport can be covered on our new AIG Backpacker & Longstay policies – call 0161 973 6435 or email [email protected] for a quote.

6 – If there is any doubt about the nature of the riding that you may encounter on your trip, we strongly recommend that you pay the Action Plus sport supplement, which extends cover to true off-roading for a maximum of 7 days of the trip, though this travel insurance for motorcyclists is only for organised guided (by a human!) motorcycling tours.

If you buy one of these Single Trip policies online, it is important that you start the cover on the date that you leave the UK (or your home country) and end it on the date that you get home. If you just buy the motorcycle travel insurance policy for a few days in the middle of a trip when you are booked on a motorcycling tour, the policy will be completely INVALID. These are not top-up policies, they must cover the whole trip.

WHICH POLICY DO I NEED?

To minimise confusion, we have detailed the scope of our UK motorcycling cover for your motorcycle holidays on our policies below:

Navigator Silver, Gold & Diamond. ( Quote or buy online or by phone – 0161 973 6435)

Cover for On Road Motorcycle Touring is restricted to 31 consecutive days per trip, with the option to increase to 62 days at the Action Plus supplement. This applies to Annual Multi-Trip and Short Stay Single Trip versions of these policies. The Long Stay Single Trip version of the policy is restricted to 31 consecutive days, with no option to increase this limit.

Cover for Off-Road Motorcycling (as part of a personally guided organised motorcycling tour) is restricted to 7 consecutive days with the Action Plus supplement, at extra cost. Again, this only applies to Annual Multi-Trip or Short Stay Single Trip policies and is not available on the Long Stay Single Trip version for your motorcycle holidays (see definition of on-road/off-road above).

If you buy one of these Single Trip policies online, it is important that you start the cover on the date that you leave the UK (or your home country) and end it on the date that you get home from your motorcycle holidays. If you just buy the motorcycle travel insurance policy for a few days in the middle of a trip when you are booked on a motorcycling tour, the policy will be completely INVALID. These are not top-up policies, they must cover the whole trip.

Longstay & Backpacker  ( Quote or buy by phone only – 0161 973 6435) 

On Road motorcycling can be covered for trips of up to 18 months with NO cc restrictions. Limited off-road cover available with 250cc maximum. Motocross and other competitive riding can be covered at extra cost.

High-Risk Voyager. ( Quote or buy online or by phone – 0161 973 6435)

On Road Motorcycling is only covered for a maximum of 14 consecutive days per trip. This motorcycle travel insurance policy is primarily for people working overseas and is not really intended for touring holidays.

Travel Plus. ( Quote or buy by phone only – 0161 973 6435)

This policy is NOT suitable for motorcycling as there is now a limit of 250cc.   On road motorcycling on made-up public roads is covered, though ONLY up to the 250cc limit. Full licence must be held

Adventures. ( Quote or buy by phone only – 0161 973 6435)

On Road Motorcycling is covered for 6 months maximum with this motorcycle travel insurance policy. This insurer does NOT use the above definition of “on-road”. They do not require roads to be tarmac, but they must be official public highways, passable to most traffic types.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Are there any cc restrictions on navigator policies.

There are no cc restrictions on any of our motorcycle travel insurance policies as long as you hold a full licence to ride a similar-sized bike in the UK (or EU on some policies).

Am I covered for Third Party/Personal Liability?

Motorcycle travel insurance excludes liability cover if the claim arises from using any motorised vehicle. This must be covered on the vehicle/motorcycle insurance.

Do Navigator policies cover me on a rented motorcycle?

Yes, Navigator policies will cover you on owned, rented or borrowed bikes, as long as you have an appropriate full licence and are street legal.

Can I ride off-road on Navigator policies?

Our motorcycle holiday insurance policies cover on-road at standard prices, though roads do not have to be tarmac. If they are official highways, marked as such on a map, or are byways legally open to motorised vehicles and marked as such on a map, this would be classed as on road. Proper Off-Road riding on a guided off-road motorcycling tour can be covered on our Navigator Silver, Gold and Diamond policies for a maximum of 7 days, by selecting the “Action Plus” option on the second page of the online application. This doubles the cost. Strangely, our insurers still require you to hold a FULL licence for the size of bike being used, even when off-road riding (don’t ask!). I suppose it’s the only way they have of knowing that you have some experience on a motorcycle…

Am I covered as a pillion passenger on a motorcycle?

Our travel insurance for motorcyclists will cover you as a pillion, as long as the rider holds a full licence for the bike.

If you have any queries or need assistance with quotes or booking your motorcycle travel insurance, please do not hesitate to call us on 0161 973 6435 or email [email protected]

All our other travel insurance policies can also incorporate motorcycle travel insurance, as detailed above.

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Should i buy motorcycle travel insurance.

So you’ve finally decided to pull the pin and book up for the trip of a  lifetime . You’ve got your holiday on the wall planner at work, your flights have all been booked and paid for, and perhaps most importantly, your ‘significant other’ has given you the green light. It’s all systems go for an epic riding adventure – you don’t want to be thinking about boring motorcycle travel insurance …

Except you do. Before you even start packing your Alpinestars, you need to sort yourself proper insurance. Travelling to foreign climates carries all kinds of potential risks, and if you are going to be riding bikes once you get there, then you just turned the danger factor right up to 11.  

It’s an unavoidable fact that as soon as we sling our leg over the saddle of a  motorcycle , whether at home or abroad, we go right to the top of the charts for risk profile –    riding on unpredictable foreign roads on an unfamiliar bike unsurprisingly multiplies those risks considerably …

But you can’t just get away with off-the shelf travel insurance from a basic web search or price comparison site. Mainstream companies will be unlikely to take on your business once you tell them you’ll be riding bikes – they are more interested in the easy money of families who are looking to spend two weeks on the beach, or pensioners on a cruise round the Mediterranean.

And don’t think it’s just a question of being a bit economical with the truth about the real reason for your  trip  – if you fail to tell the insurers you will be riding and then subsequently have a bike related issue while abroad, don’t expect to get far with your claim …

It’s important to look carefully and compare cover between suitable companies and find a level of protection that you’re happy with. You can’t insure against every possible event, but should be able to find a policy that protects you against the most likely issues that you may encounter.

So, let’s look at the main things that proper motorcycle travel insurance will cover

UNEXPECTED NEED TO CANCEL

Let’s face it – life can throw us curve balls when we are least expecting it. From an untimely death in the family to unpredicted work problems, life can sometimes conspire to screw up our plans.

Assuming that we all ride bikes all year round, perhaps the highest possibility for needing to cancel a riding trip is picking up a riding injury in the run up to your holiday. Break a collarbone on your morning commute and you are not going to be crossing the Himalayas two weeks later! Damn …

TRAVEL PROBLEMS

From delays to actually reaching the airport; delays or cancellations to outgoing flights or the frustration of missed connections, just getting to where you are supposed to be to start your adventure is packed with pinch points where things can go wrong. Proper insurance means that you’ll be covered for the next appropriate flight and that someone’s going to sort out all the details.

Booking flights direct with an airline will ensure they will sort the problem far quicker than if you booked through a third party. It’s also important that if you have multiple flights then all of them are with the same airline as it’s their responsibility to get you to your intended destination and back.

NATURAL DISASTERS

OK so less likely, but if the place you are travelling to is in the grip of unexpected and dangerous natural conditions, your trip isn’t happening.

You do not want to fly into a hurricane zone, or set off towards a region that is still shaking from an earthquake. With the right policy in place, you can return when things have returned to an even keel without losing out.

Note – you will need to add in Force Majeure cover to your policy otherwise the insurance company will not help with anything that that consider to be causes by ‘forces of nature’.

It’s a sad but unavoidable factor to life in the 21 st  century is becoming increasingly affected by terrorist acts. From problems in our home countries affecting travel plans to incidents in host destinations, we can’t afford to ignore the potential for problems with any travel plans. Your policy needs to cover you if your trip simply does not happen because of terrorist acts or the threat of terrorist acts.

LOST OR DELAYED LUGGAGE

OK you arrive in you dream destination, fresh and excited for your epic adventure, but as you wait by the luggage carousel there’s no sign of your kit bag. The bags stop coming round, the belt stops and you’ve got nothing –  it’s a terrible feeling – we’ve been there!

With two weeks travel ahead of you, you’ll need a policy that will allow you replace the kit at very short notice – it’s no good your kit arriving four days later when you are 300 miles away in the Cambodian jungle.

Bike kit is not cheap, so trying to persuade a mainstream insurer that a  Klim  Jacket does actually cost close to £700 and you are not going to be happy with a Wal-Mart replacement, may be an uphill struggle.

A good policy will have suitable levels of cover for all your  bike kit  from helmets to boots, allow you to source an alternative quickly in your destination. They may also factor in cover so that if those temporary purchases are not a direct replacement of what you’ve lost, allow a full replacement on your return. A bad policy won’t.

LOOKING FOR AN EPIC MOTORCYCLE ADVENTURE?

Electronic equipment cover.

So if you’re on the trip of a lifetime, you are going to want to record it. From Go Pros to DLSRs, all this kit is expensive and if it falls out of your tank bag at 60 mph, it’s not going to survive well.    You need to cover all your tech against the risks and rigours of life on the road, not to mention loss or even worse – robbery. It’s a jungle out there!

LOST PASSPORT

On trips when you are staying in a different destination each night, the potential for losing stuff is pretty large. If it’s just the odd sock or the charging cable for your IPhone, then it’s not an issue, but if it’s your passport, then it certainly is.

Trying to solve this while on the road is going to be really tricky, so the ability to phone somebody who is going to help you sort out a replacement is an essential. India may be nice, but you might want to leave there at some point …

SICKNESS OR INJURY

Now we are into more familiar territory here as getting a bit poorly on holiday is not uncommon.    From a bit of ‘unsettled stomach’ to  insect bites  or cuts and grazes or  even worse  we may need medical help when abroad, and getting good quality care is likely to cost.

As a motorcyclist with a higher risk profile than most, then this is the time when a motorcycle specific travel insurance policy is absolutely essential. If you break your ankle when you are off the beaten track, you need cover that is going to get you help and get it fast.

But don’t think the little injuries or wounds  can be overlooked either – news reports this week feature a traveller who has developed sepsis from a simple mosquito bite in Cambodia.  Medical cover could be the smartest purchase you ever make …

Ride Expeditions travel with paramedics who can offer immediate care and we also use  Spot Tracker  if Emergency evacuation from remote areas is required.

EMERGENCY REPATRIATION

In the case of severe or potentially life changing injuries or sickness, chances are that you will be better off treated back home, so travel insurance should cover the entire costs of organising and facilitating this, from medical evacuation in remote areas, to medically supported flights to your home country.

It’s uncomfortable to think about, but it’s better to know that you have the cover and never need it, than go without the cover and find yourself with an enormous and financially crippling bill.

So that’s a few pointers to consider before you take out motorcycle travel insurance. Getting proper insurance is about assessing risk and taking appropriate steps to mitigate the potential effects of unforeseen circumstances.

If asked who we would use, there are two companies, Holiday Safe – here’s a  link to their site  or World Nomads  –  and here’s their link  – but make sure what they are offering works for you and the specifics of your trip.

No matter what you might have heard about people having issues with insurance companies in the past, whether those issues related to travel issues or bike problems, don’t allow this to influence your decision as to whether to take out suitable cover for a motorcycle adventure. You need it – period.

Always be honest about your plans when filling in the forms – don’t take out a policy that restricts you to a 125cc and then hire a  Royal Enfield Himalayan  – they will find out if you have need to claim and at that point you will find yourself without cover.

The correct policy will not be expensive when you compare the costs to the potential bills and costs you may incur if you have no appropriate insurance ….

Travelling without proper insurance is like running a red traffic light on your bike – you might get away with it, but then again, it might go disastrously wrong …

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Covid-19 notification.

For  all  tours cancelled by Ride Expeditions, riders can choose to receive a  100% refund  or to transfer all monies paid to any future tour.

Full details can be found in our  terms & conditions.

Ride Expeditions Ltd is a company committed to customer satisfaction and consumer financial protection. At no extra cost to you, and in accordance with ‘The Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018’,  all passengers booking with Ride Expeditions Ltd are fully insured for the initial deposit, and subsequently the balance of monies paid  as detailed in your booking confirmation form. The policy also includes repatriation if required, arising from the cancellation or curtailment of your travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Ride Expeditions Ltd. This insurance has been arranged by Towergate Travel through  Zurich Insurance PLC .

Book your next tour with confidence with Ride Expeditions.

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The Best Motorcycle Insurance Companies

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Markel American

24/7 claim support

Online claim filing

A.M Financial Strength

Progressive

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Reviews Report

• Progressive is Reviews.com’s top motorcycle insurance company, scoring a 4.6/5 in our system.
• The top motorcycle insurance companies have online claim filing, plenty of discounts, and additional coverage options
• Specialty motorcycle insurance coverage is offered by Hagerty, but it doesn’t offer mobile claim filing or as many discounts.

The best motorcycle insurance companies should strike that perfect balance between strong financial ratings, diverse coverage options, and plenty of discounts. Of course, your premium ultimately depends on you, your motorcycle, and your riding habits. That’s why you’ll need to compare quotes from multiple motorcycle insurance companies to find your best price. We’ve compared just over 30 national insurance providers to find the best ones; you can find our top picks below, or use our quote tool to get started.

The 7 Best Motorcycle Insurance Companies

• Markel American: Best Coverage Variety
• Progressive: Best for Specialty Bikes
• Nationwide: Best for High Coverage Limits
• Safeco: Best for Discounts
• Geico: Best for Daily Riders
• USAA: Best for Military Members
• Hagerty: Best for Vintage and Collector’s Bikes

Best for Coverage Variety: Markel American

Why we chose it

• 4.25 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• A AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• NR J.D. Power J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.
• Greatest variety of coverage options
• Mechanical breakdown coverage
• 9 advertised discounts available
• Limited customer tools
• No mobile app

Coverage Options

• Roadside assistance and trip interruption
• Medical payments
• Trailer and accessories coverage
• Passenger liability

Discounts Available

• Safety course
• Accident forgiveness

Best for Specialty Bikes: Progressive

• 4.8 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• A+ AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• 848* J.D. Power J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.
• Plenty of discounts available
• Online customer tools
• No breakdown coverage available
• Recommended coverage amounts are more expensive
• Actual agreed value
• Accessories and custom parts
• Roadside assistance
• Motorcycle endorsement
• Multi-policy
• Association member

Best for High Coverage Limits: Nationwide

• 4.4 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• 862* J.D. Power J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.
• Tolerant of “high-risk” drivers
• Built-in accessory coverage
• No agreed value coverage
• Custom equipment
• Multi-policy/vehicle
• Rider association

Best for Experienced Riders: Safeco

• 3.6 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• 838* J.D. Power J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.
• Comprehensive coverage
• Harley Davidson replacement
• No online quotes
• No specialty bike coverage
• Roadside assistance OEM Safety apparel Harley Davidson replacement cost
• Claims free
• Experienced riders

Best for Daily Riders: Geico

• A++ AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• 867* J.D. Power J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.
• Responsive live agents
• Covers a variety of motorcycle types
• Discounts not available everywhere
• Limited add-on coverage
• Towing and labor
• Accessories
• Mature rider
• Motorcycle Safety Foundation course

Best for Military Members: USAA

• 4.2 Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• 900 J.D. Power J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.
• High customer satisfaction rating
• Only available to military members
• Limited website information
• Uninsured/underinsured
• Claims-free
• Multi-vehicle

Best for Vintage and Collector’s Bikes: Hagerty

• NA Reviews Score Score is based on company’s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.
• NR AM Best Rate AM Best rates insurance providers creditworthiness. Ratings are based on the provider’s ability to follow through with a payout when a consumer files a claim.
• Member discounts
• No fixed mileage restrictions
• Doesn’t underwrite its own policies
• Strict motorcycle requirements
• Fair value covered loss
• Multi-vehicle discounts

*J.D. Power’s 2020 Insurance Shopping Study . Based on a 1,000-point scale.

Motorcycle Insurance: What You Need to Know

Motorcycle types.

There are many different kinds of motorcycles, including:

• Cruisers: Common models where the rider places their feet forward and hands up high on the bars. This causes the rider to sit with the spine erect or slightly leaning back.
• Touring motorcycles: These models are generally “wider” with larger fairings and screens to offer better wind and weather protection during long rides. Seating posture is more relaxed, with most models also featuring panniers or saddlebags.
• Sportbikes: Focused more on speed and acceleration. Riders straddle the motorcycle with higher footpegs to curl the legs up closer to the body to improve ground clearance.
• Sport-touring motorcycles: Combines the comfort and luggage space of a touring motorcycle with the speed and handling of a sportbike.
• Dirt bikes: These off-road motorcycles are light and durable to handle travel over uneven surfaces that are not conventionally paved. Tires are knobby to improve traction.
• Trikes: Also known as motorized tricycles. Similar to a motorcycle, only with three wheels. The handling is also different with many models, featuring housing that encloses the rider almost like a car.

Knowing what kind of motorcycle you’re trying to insure will help you when it comes time to determine coverage, as each of these tend to have their own traits and risks that help insurance providers adjust policies accordingly.

Insuring a dirt bike might be less expensive than covering a brand-new cruiser. Once you know what you’re covering, you can have a better idea of what to expect when gathering quotes.

Essential Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

In most states, you’re legal to ride with only bare-bones liability coverage, which could potentially cost as little at $75 per year. Washington, Florida, Montana, and New Hampshire don’t require any motorcycle insurance. However, the agents and lawyers we spoke with agree that state minimums don’t reflect the reality of costs associated with an accident. They recommend five essential coverage options (with relatively high limits) to make sure you’re truly covered in the event of an accident or theft:

Covers damage caused by a collision with another vehicle. Most common accidents qualify as collisions, so this is the coverage you’ll likely use most.

Comprehensive

Covers theft or damage caused by something other than a collision with another car or object. This includes vandalism, natural disasters, and damage caused by animals.

The amount your provider will pay out to the injured party if you’re at-fault in an accident. Experts recommend getting as much as you can afford, but 100/ 300/ 50 is a good starting point. (That’s $100,000 per person injured, up to $300,000 per accident, plus $50,000 in property damage.)

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage

This covers your own repairs and medical bills if the person who hits you is un- or underinsured. As with liability, we suggest getting the highest limits you can — but at least 100/ 300 is highly recommended ($100,000 per person, or up to $300,000 total per accident).

Buy as much liability insurance as you can afford

While the more liability insurance you add to your policy, the more expensive your premium, poor coverage can really hurt you in the long run. If you hit someone and are underinsured, there’s a chance they may sue you to cover their losses — which could end up costing you your home or other assets. Attorney Chris Johnston suggests starting with at least 100/300 ($100,000 per person injured, up to $300,000 total per accident). However, with the right policy, it costs as little as a few dollars per year to get the most liability coverage your provider offers. That’s a small price for a lot of peace of mind.

Supplemental coverage

With the right policy, motorcycle insurance can cover anything from repairs for your bike to replacement costs for your favorite leather jacket — you just have to choose a provider that covers what’s important to you. 

Motorcycle insurance companies offer supplemental and add-on coverage, such as: 

• Custom parts and equipment
• Trip interruption
• Guest passenger liability
• Accessory, safety gear, and equipment
• Total loss coverage
• Vintage/antique bikes

Compare quotes

Don’t settle for the first company you look at. Every provider has a unique underwriting process, meaning it’ll evaluate your “risk factors” (like age, bike model, and driving history) a little differently and come up with a personalized quote. You won’t know which one can offer you the best premium until you’ve looked at a few. That’s why we always recommend comparing quotes from multiple providers to find the coverage you need at the right price.

Don’t forget about medical coverage

Our insurance experts highly recommend an insurance policy with medical coverage. Brian Dunmire, motorcycle accident attorney , recommends PIP or medpay in the amount of at least $10,000. He points out that “oftentimes, these coverages can be added to your insurance policy for only a few dollars a month,” and they’ll be a huge help with medical bills.

The type of medical coverage offered with motorcycle insurance varies by state; typically you’re looking at personal injury protection (PIP) or medpay. PIP, or “no fault” insurance, is available in 24 states and required in 17 of them . It covers health insurance deductibles, medical copays, lost wages, and other costs — regardless of who is at fault in an accident. Medpay is similar to PIP but less comprehensive. It works with health insurance to cover deductibles and copays but won’t supplement lost wages, child care, or funeral expenses, like PIP will.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Theft?

Motorcycle theft coverage is usually part of the comprehensive coverage on a motorcycle insurance policy. When your motorcycle is stolen, you need to file a motorcycle theft claim with your insurance provider after reporting the theft to the police. From there, you will need to provide your claims adjuster with all the pertinent information to make sure you are properly compensated. This information includes:

• Police report number
• Date, time, and location of theft
• Your motorcycle’s year, make, model, and mileage
• All existing photos and receipts for any custom parts or accessories

You will also need to sign over the title of your motorcycle to the insurance company. If you still owe money to a bank for a loan, you will need to get the bank to sign off.

Once you have done all this, it’s just a waiting game where one of two things will happen first:

• The authorities will recover your motorcycle
• The entire motorcycle theft claims process will finish and you’re compensated

In the event that your motorcycle is recovered, the comprehensive coverage will go toward repair costs. If your motorcycle turns up after you’ve gone through the motorcycle claims process, then it is now the property of the insurance company.

Methodology

We evaluated motorcycle insurance companies based on discounts, coverage, claim filing, financial strength and customer satisfaction to determine Reviews.com scores and create our best motorcycle insurance reviews. To compare motorcycle insurance companies with other providers across the board, we calculate each Reviews.com score based on the following:

• Discounts: Motorcycle insurance companies that advertised more discounts received higher scores in our methodology
• Financial Stability: Reviews.com utilized AM Best ratings to assign a score based on each motorcycle insurance company’s financial stability.
• Customer Satisfaction: Because J.D. Power does not study motorcycle insurance customer satisfaction, we utilized J.D. Power’s 2020 Insurance Shopping Satisfaction Study for auto insurers. 
• Coverage: Motorcycle insurance companies were awarded higher scores for advertised coverages beyond the body liability, property liability, collision and personal injury protection.
• Claims Filing: Reviews.com compared each company’s claims filing process — companies that had mobile claims filing scored the highest in this metric. 

About the Authors

Maggie Overholt Contributor

Maggie is a former lead insurance editor at Reviews.com. She's written more than 70 insurance articles covering homeowners, auto, life, motorcycle, travel, and more.

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Table Of Contents

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Best Motorcycle Insurance of 2024

Table of Contents

• Best Motorcycle Insurance
• Things to Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Much like car insurance, motorcycle insurance is designed to protect you and your bike from the financial losses that can result from an accident, theft, or vandalism. It also protects you from liability should you damage someone else’s property or cause injury to others.

Requirements for motorcycle insurance vary widely, but nearly all states in the U.S. require some degree of coverage. Many motorcycle insurance companies will write policies for everything from daily cruisers and scooters to vintage bikes and even ATVs. Coverage for accessories like side cars or custom saddles is also common, as is roadside assistance. We researched and reviewed the best motorcycle insurance companies to sign up for, taking into account coverage types, price, policy customization options, and more.

• Best Overall: Progressive »
• Best for Daily Commuters: Geico »
• Best for Motorcycle Collectors: Foremost »
• Best for Custom Bike Owners: Safeco »
• Best for Harley-Davidson Riders: Harley-Davidson Insurance »

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Best Overall: Progressive

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts coverage available

Replacement cost coverage included

Coverage for personal belongings available

Premiums may not be the lowest

Discounts vary by state

Progressive Insurance is our top choice for best motorcycle insurance company, based on our analysis. Unlike some insurers, Progressive makes replacement cost coverage a standard part of its comprehensive and collision protection. Should your bike be damaged in an accident, your Progressive policy will ensure that original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are used for repairs and rebuilds. And if you’ve customized your bike, custom parts will be used, up to the standard policy limit of $3,000. (You can add up to $30,000 in coverage if your bike is truly one of a kind.)

Progressive also offers a relatively wide array of additional coverage options, including roadside assistance and trip-interruption protection, which may appeal to long-distance cruisers in particular. Riders with a clean record may want to consider the Disappearing Deductible option, which can reduce your premium by 25% or more. And there’s Carried Contents coverage, which protects personal belongings carried on your bike, from phones to luggage. The insurer offers a number of discounts that could reduce your bill, but availability varies by state.

A number of factors can influence premium prices, including where you live, the kind of bike you ride, how often and how far you ride, and more. Like all insurers, Progressive promises low rates for motorcycle insurance. But that may not always be the case for everyone. For example, in our analysis of the cheapest car insurance companies , Progressive’s sample rate was just below the national average but considerably more than companies like USAA and Geico. Bottom line: Get quotes from at least three insurers and compare rates and coverages before you buy.

Coverage Types:

Liability coverage

Uninsured/underinsured motorist

Comprehensive and collision

Medical payments

Add-Ons and Customization:

Total loss coverage for a new motorcycle

Roadside assistance and trip interruption

Carried Contents

Disappearing Deductible

Enhanced injury protection

Financial Strength:

A+ (Superior)

Discounts and Benefits:

Quote in advance

Multi-policy

Association member

Safety course

Switch or transfer from another company

Responsible driver

Safe and Steady Rider

Pay in full

Pay on time

Automatic bill-pay (electronic funds transfer)

Small accident forgiveness

Large accident forgiveness

Best for Daily Commuters: Geico

Discounts for a variety of riders

Multiple payment plan options

Widely available across the U.S.

Not all discounts available in all states

Lower rates may be available elsewhere

Geico is our pick for offering the best motorcycle insurance for daily commuters. It’s one of the few insurance companies we analyzed that is available in nearly every state and Washington, D.C. Geico also stands out for offering a number of options for paying your premium: all at once, monthly, or in four, six, or nine installments. That kind of flexibility could appeal to budget-conscious riders.

When it comes to savings, Geico offers a number of discounts to policyholders, including one for bike owners who transfer their policies from another insurer. The company touts savings of up to 10% for many of its advertised discounts, though individual savings will vary and not all discounts are available in all states.

When it comes to rates, Geico may be worth checking out; they have some of the cheapest sample premiums when it comes to car insurance. But a low sample rate is no guarantee you’ll pay the same or less. Experts recommend contacting at least three insurers for quotes to ensure you’re getting the best deal possible.

Geico offers coverage for a range of motorcycle types, including custom- and self-built bikes, as well as optional protection for accessories including seats, saddlebags, electronics, as well as trike conversion kits and more. Much like Progressive, Geico offers a number of other insurance products, including home, renters, auto, and pet insurance, so there are also opportunities to save by bundling policies.

Collision coverage

Comprehensive coverage

Personal injury protection

Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

Accessories coverage

Helmet coverage

Emergency roadside service

Transferring policy from another insurer

Owning more than one motorcycle

Renewing your policy

Completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation or military safety course

Insuring your car with Geico

Mature riders

A++ (Superior)

Best for Motorcycle Collectors : Foremost

Tiered insurance plans for collector and vintage bikes

Optional replacement cost coverage for up to five years on new bikes

Track Day coverage available

Not available in all states

Fewer advertised discounts than competing insurers

Foremost motorcycle insurance could be a good option for people who own vintage bikes or have a sizable stable of motorcycles. Unlike some insurance companies we looked at, Foremost offers a number of packages for riders, including liability-only and three levels of standard coverage (Saver, Plus, and Elite).

If you own a vintage bike – one that’s more than 25 years old and has been either restored or has just been well maintained – there are two additional tiers of coverage available. The same goes for one-of-a-kind and limited-run custom bikes, as well as motorcycles with more than $30,000 worth of optional equipment.

Like many companies, Foremost insures a range of motorcycles, including high-end sport bikes. Unlike most insurers on this list, which will not insure policies for bikes used in organized racing activities, Foremost offers optional Track Day coverage.

Motorcycle collectors may also want to consider Foremost’s travel trailer insurance, which provides up to $10,000 in coverage. The company also offers policies for low-speed or neighborhood electric vehicles (NEVs) like golf carts. Foremost is owned by the Farmers Group of Insurance Companies.

Perhaps the biggest drawback is that Foremost motorcycle insurance isn’t available in several states. We could only get online quotes for Alaska, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maine, Nebraska, Nevada, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington state, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Washington, D.C. Additionally, the Foremost website only lists three policy discounts, far fewer than the other companies in this roundup.

Helmet and safety apparel coverage

First accident forgiveness

Track Day coverage

Deductible Waiver

Total Loss Settlement

Optional Equipment Coverage

Towing and Roadside Assistance

Transport Trailer Coverage

Diminishing Deductible

Multi-vehicle

Endorsement

A (Excellent)

Best for Custom Bike Owners : Safeco

Coverage available for homemade and kit bikes

Replacement cost provision for Harley-Davidson owners

Roadside assistance options available

Must speak with agent in order to complete policy purchase

Relatively few discounts

We chose Safeco as the best insurance company for custom bike owners because it offers coverage that can be customized for bikes that are one of a kind or built from a kit. It also offers optional replacement cost coverage protection specifically for Harley-Dadivson riders, which may be worth considering for owners of high-end hogs. Roadside assistance is also available.

Safeco also offers policyholder discounts, among them savings for taking a motorcycle safety course, for bundling your coverage with another Safeco policy, and for going claim-free during the prior 12-month term, even if you were with another insurer for some or all of that time. But Safeco also has far fewer advertised discounts than other insurers in this review. Check with a company representative for other savings opportunities.

You can begin a policy quote on the Safeco website, but you’ll need to speak with a customer representative or local agent in order to complete a purchase.

Bodily Injury Liability

Collision/Comprehensive

OEM Manufacturer Parts Coverage

Safety Apparel Coverage

Harley Davidson Replacement Cost Provision

Roadside Assistance

Safety Course

Experienced Riders

Best for Harley-Davidson Riders : Harley-Davidson Insurance

Can be purchased from Harley dealers or online

Available to Harley-Davidson and non-Harley riders alike

Other financial services offered, like bike loans

Unavailable in Alaska, Hawaii, and Washington, D.C.

Doesn’t offer home, life, pet, and other insurance products

Harley-Davidson Insurance is the best motorcycle insurance company for Harley owners. Other insurers offer discounts to Harley-Davidson owners, but only Harley-Davidson can boast that it insures the bikes it also manufactures. You don’t need to own a hog in order to purchase a policy from this company, however. Harley-Davidson Insurance will insure most makes and models, including vintage and collector bikes. But if you’re about to buy a new bike at a Harley dealer, it can offer you one-stop shopping from a loan on that cruiser to insurance, not to mention extended protection plans and even a branded Visa card.

Harley-Davidson Insurance is available to most riders in the U.S., but it’s not offered in Alaska, Hawaii, and Washington, D.C. It also doesn’t offer other insurance products, such as home, car, life, or pet insurance, meaning you won’t be able to bundle policies for one-stop shopping.

Guest passenger liability

Bodily injury liability

Property damage liability

Roadside assistance

Optional equipment coverage

Vacation rental insurance

Optional equipment replacement cost

Bike replacement cost

Rental reimbursement

Harley Owners Group member

Motorcycle endorsement

Experienced Rider

H-D Riding Academy

Prompt Payer

Claim-free Renewal

Bundled protection

Multi-cycle

Military/law enforcement

The Bottom Line

A big insurer like Progressive is going to be the best choice for many riders because of the wide range of coverages, discounts, and other options it offers. But as with all kinds of insurance, it pays to shop around. Another big insurer, Geico, may also offer competitive rates for bikers, particularly everyday riders. But if you’ve got a lot invested in a custom or restored motorcycle, or you are involved in organized racing, a company like Foremost that offers specialized coverage could be worth a look, too.

Things to Consider When Buying Motorcycle Insurance

• Coverage options: Each state sets its own requirements for motorcycle insurance, but most riders will need to carry some form of liability insurance at minimum. A standard motorcycle insurance policy typically includes:
• Liability protection against property damage and bodily injury to others that you’re held responsible for. 
• Comprehensive coverage applies to damage caused to your motorcycle, such as damage to the body or windshield, as well as theft, vandalism, and the like. 
• Collision insurance is also included. This applies to damage to your bike sustained in an accident with another vehicle or object, regardless of liability.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage also may be included. This coverage applies to damage to your bike and injuries you may sustain in an accident where the other person either lacks sufficient insurance to cover your bills or is not insured.
• Medical payments (MedPay) or personal injury protection (PIP) coverage is included with some policies. This insurance applies to healthcare for any injuries you or your passengers may have sustained in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
• Roadside assistance is a common add-on among insurers and will pay for towing, jumpstarts, flat-tire repair, running out of gas, and other mishaps. 
• Accessories and helmet coverage is another popular add-on worth considering, especially if you’ve tricked out your bike with custom gear like a saddle or have a helmet with a built-in intercom or other pricey electronic components.

Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement parts coverage ensures that your motorcycle will be repaired using components from the bike’s manufacturer, not from a third party. 

Standard motorcycle insurance coverage varies according to state law, and additional coverage options may be available from your insurer. Of course, the more you augment your policy, the higher your premium is likely to be, so pay attention to the bottom line when you get a quote.

• Policy exclusions : Nearly every insurance policy contains some sort of exclusion clause, which outlines what is not covered. Many insurers won’t cover you if you participate in an organized racing event, for instance (if you do race legally, look for an insurer like Foremost that offers Track Day coverage). Using your motorcycle to run a delivery service or as a taxi is also commonly excluded from coverage. So is any damage that you’ve caused intentionally to your bike, as well as normal wear and tear.
• Discounts and benefits : Many insurers offer discounts for bundling policies , such as home insurance with car and motorcycle insurance. If you live in a snow-prone region of the country, you also may qualify for a “lay-up” insurance policy, which drops your coverage to comprehensive-only during winter when you won’t be riding.

Other common savings include (but aren’t limited to) discounts for insuring multiple bikes, maintaining a clean riding record, taking a safety course, paying your premium in full, and being a member of an affinity group like the American Motorcycle Association. Not all insurers offer the same discounts, however, so pay attention when shopping for the best rates.

How We Chose The Best Motorcycle Insurance

At U.S. News 360 Reviews, our editors consulted a number of expert sources to conduct this review. We narrowed down our selection with additional research, paying particular attention to policy ad-ons, discounts, and offerings for riders with a variety of interests from daily commuting to weekend cruising, as well as racing and collecting. We also took the company’s financial strength into account. Overall, we found that the best policy is one that combines affordability with sufficient protection for your needs, especially owners of vintage bikes and custom motorcycles.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors have years of experience researching, testing, and reviewing products. Scott Nyerges, the author of this piece and a senior editor for 360 Reviews, has more than a decade of consumer news and product review experience in insurance, health and fitness, shopping, travel, and food. He has worked for Consumer Reports, ThoughtCo, and ConsumerSearch.

According to our research, the best motorcycle insurance company for most people is Progressive. It is available to most riders in the U.S. and offers a wider range of policy add-ons and discount opportunities.

However, you may find better rates with a different insurer in our article, depending on what kind of motorcycle you own, how often you ride (and how far), where you live, and more. Experts recommend consulting at least three insurers when getting quotes on motorcycle insurance.

The short answer is, it depends on your policy details and where you live. Coverage for motorcycle passengers and their medical bills is typically optional, not standard, and requirements vary by state. Check with your insurance agent or customer representative to find out what’s mandatory in your state of residence.

Common forms of medical coverage for motorcycle passengers include:

• Guest passenger liability : This pays for your rider’s medical bills, up to policy limits, if you are found at fault for causing an accident. 
• Personal injury protection (PIP) : If you live in what’s known as a “no-fault” state, you will likely have to purchase PIP, which covers medical expenses for both you and your passenger, regardless of who is liable for causing the accident. PIP also can cover lost wages and related expenses.
• Medical payment (MedPay) : This covers medical expenses for both you and your passenger, no matter who is held liable for causing the accident.
• Uninsured/Underinsured motorist : This coverage applies to both medical bills and property damage that either you or your passenger suffers as the result of an accident that is caused by someone with insufficient or no insurance.

Yes, in many cases you can buy motorcycle insurance without having a motorcycle license (such as a Class M designation). For example, you may own a vintage Harley that you don’t ride currently but still want to make sure it’s protected. But insurers likely will view an unlicensed rider as a higher risk to cover and may charge a substantially higher premium than for a licensed rider with a good record.

Remember, it is illegal to ride a motorcycle in nearly every state without being insured. In addition, it is against the law to ride without a valid motorcycle license or to ride an unregistered bike.

Generally speaking, sport bikes are the most expensive kind of motorcycle to insure. The kind of bike you ride is but one factor that insurers take into account when determining your motorcycle insurance premium. Your age, where you live, how often and how far you ride, and other data will influence the price you pay.

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

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11 Best Travel Insurance Companies in April 2024

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

If the past few years have shown us anything, it’s that travelers need to be prepared for the unexpected — from a pandemic to flight troubles to the crowded airport terminals so many of us have encountered.

Whether you’re looking for an international travel insurance plan, emergency medical care or a policy that includes extreme sports, these are the best travel insurance providers to get you covered.

How we found the best travel insurance

We looked at quotes from various companies for a 10-day trip to Mexico in September 2024. The traveler was a 55-year-old woman from Florida who spent $3,000 total on the trip, including airfare.

On average, the price of each company’s most basic coverage plan was $126.53. The costs displayed below do not include optional add-ons, such as Cancel For Any Reason coverage or pre-existing medical condition coverage.

Read our full analysis about the average cost of travel insurance so you can budget better for your next trip.

However, depending on the plan, you may be able to customize at an added cost.

As we continue to evaluate more travel insurance companies and receive fresh market data, this collection of best travel insurance companies is likely to change. See our full methodology for more details.

Best insurance companies

Types of travel insurance

What does travel insurance cover, what’s not covered, how much does it cost, do i need travel insurance, how to choose the best travel insurance policy, what are the top travel destinations in 2024, more resources for travel insurance shoppers, top credit cards with travel insurance, methodology, best travel insurance overall: berkshire hathaway travel protection.

Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection

• ExactCare Value (basic) plan is among the least expensive we surveyed.
• Speciality plans available for road trips, luxury travel, adventure activities, flights and cruises.
• Company may reimburse claimants faster than average, including possible same-day compensation.
• Multiple "Trip Delay" coverage types might make claims confusing.
• Cheapest plan only includes fixed amounts for its coverage.

Under the direction of chair and CEO Warren Buffett, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection has been around since 2014. Its plans provide numerous opportunities for travelers to customize coverage to their needs.

At $135 for our sample trip, the ExactCare Value (basic) plan from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection offers protection roughly $10 above the average price.

Want something cheaper? Air travelers looking for inexpensive, less comprehensive protections might opt for a basic AirCare plan that includes fixed amounts for its coverage .

Read our full review of Berkshire Hathaway .

What else makes Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection great:

Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waivers available at no extra cost.

Plans available for travelers going on a cruise, participating in extreme sports or taking a luxury trip.

ExactCare Value (basic) plan was among the least expensive we surveyed.

Best for emergency medical coverage: Allianz Global Assistance

Annual or single-trip policies are available.

• Multiple types of insurance available.
• All plans include access to a 24/7 assistance hotline.
• More expensive than average.
• CFAR upgrades are not available.
• Rental car protection is only available by adding the One Trip Rental Car protector to your plan or by purchasing a standalone rental car plan.

Allianz Global Assistance is a reputable travel insurance company offering plans for over 25 years. Customers can choose from a variety of single and annual policies to fit their needs. On top of comprehensive coverage, some travelers might opt for the more affordable OneTrip Cancellation Plus, which is geared toward domestic travelers looking for trip protections but don’t need post-departure benefits like emergency medical or baggage lost.

For our test trip, Allianz Global Assistance’s basic coverage cost $149, about $22 above average.

What else makes Allianz Global Assistance great:

Annual and single-trip plans.

Plans are available for international and domestic trips.

Stand-alone and add-on rental car damage product available.

Read our full review of Allianz Global Assistance .

Best for travelers with pre-existing medical conditions: Travel Guard by AIG

Travel Guard by AIG

• Offers last-minute coverage.
• Pre-Existing Medical Conditions Exclusion Waiver available at all plan levels.
• Plan available for business travelers.
• Cancel For Any reason coverage only available for higher-level plans, and only reimburses up to 50% of the trip cost.
• Trip interruption coverage doesn't apply to trips paid for with points and miles.

Travel Guard by AIG offers a variety of plans and coverages to fit travelers’ needs. On top of more standard trip protections like trip cancellation, interruption, baggage and medical coverage, the Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available on certain Travel Guard plans, which allows you to cancel a trip for any reason and get 50% of your nonrefundable deposit back as long as the trip is canceled at least two days before the scheduled departure date.

At $107 for our sample trip, the Essential plan was below average, saving roughly $20.

What else makes Travel Guard by AIG great:

Three comprehensive plans and a Pack N' Go plan for last-minute travelers who don't need cancellation benefits.

Flight protection, car rental, and medical evacuation coverage, as well as annual plans available.

Pre-existing medical conditions exclusion waiver available on all plan levels, as long as it's purchased within 15 days.

Read our full review of Travel Guard by AIG .

Best for those who pack expensive equipment: Travel Insured International

Travel Insured International

• Higher-level plan include optional add-ons for event tickets and for electronic equipment
• Rental car protection add-on for just $8 per day, even on lower-level plan.
• Many of the customizations are only available on the higher-tier plan.
• Coverage cost comes in above average in our latest analysis.

Travel Insured International offers several customization options. For instance, those going to see a show may want to add on event ticket registration fee protection. Traveling with expensive gear?Consider adding on coverage for electronic equipment for up to $2,000 in coverage.

Be sure to check which policies are available in your state. You will need to input your destination, residence, trip dates and the number of travelers to get a quote and see coverages.

What else makes Travel Insured International great:

Comprehensive plans include medical expense reimbursement accidents, sickness, evacuation and pre-existing conditions, depending on the plan.

Flight plans include coverage for missed and canceled flights and lost or stolen baggage.

Read our full review of Travel Insured International .

Best for adventurous travelers: World Nomads

World Nomads

• Travelers can extend coverage mid-trip.
• The standard plan covers up to $300,000 in emergency evacuation costs.
• Plans automatically cover 200+ adventurous activities.
• No Cancel For Any Reason upgrades are available.
• No pre-existing medical condition waivers are available.

Many travel insurance plans contain exclusions for adventure sports activities. If you plan to ski, bungee jump, windsurf or parasail, this might be a plan to consider.

Note that the Standard plan ($72 for our sample trip), while the most affordable, provides less coverage than other plans. But it can be a good choice for travelers who are satisfied with trip cancellation and interruption coverage of $2,500 or less, do not need rental car damage protection, find the limits to be sufficient and do not need coverage for certain more adventurous activities.

What else makes World Nomads great:

Comprehensive international travel insurance plans.

Coverage available for adventure activities, such as trekking, mountain biking and scuba diving.

Read our full review of World Nomads .

Best for medical coverage: Travelex Insurance Services

Travelex Insurance Services

• Top-tier plan doesn’t break the bank and provides more customization opportunities.
• Offers a plan specifically for domestic travel.
• Sells a post-departure medical coverage plan.
• Fewer customization opportunities on the Basic plan.
• Though perhaps a plus for domestic travelers, keep in mind the Travel America plan only covers domestic trips.

For starters, basic coverage from Travelex Insurance Services came in at $125, almost exactly average for our sample trip.

Travelex’s plans focus heavily on providing protections that are personalized to your travel style and trip type.

While the company does offer comprehensive plans that include medical benefits, you can also choose between cheaper plans that don’t provide cancellation coverage but do offer protections during your travels.

Read our full review of Travelex Insurance Services .

What else makes Travelex Insurance Services great:

Three comprehensive plans available, two of which cover international trips.

Offers a post-departure plan geared exclusively toward disruptions after you leave home.

Two flight insurance plans available.

Best if you have travel credit card coverage: Seven Corners

Seven Corners

• Annual, medical-only and backpacker plans are available.
• Cancel For Any Reason upgrade is available for the cheapest plan.
• Cheapest plan also features a much less costly Interruption for Any Reason add-on.
• Offers only one annual policy option.

Each Seven Corners plan offers several optional add-ons. Among the more unique is a Trip Interruption for Any Reason, which allows you to interrupt a trip 48 hours after the scheduled departure date (for any reason) and receive a refund of up to 75% of your unused nonrefundable deposits.

The basic coverage plan for our trip to Mexico costs $124 — right around the average.

What else makes Seven Corners great:

Comprehensive plans for U.S. residents and foreigners, including travelers visiting the U.S.

Cheap add-ons for rental car damage, sporting equipment rental or trip interruption for any reason.

Read our full review of Seven Corners .

Best for long-term travelers: IMG

• Coverage available for adventure travelers.
• Special medical insurance for ship captains and crew members, international students and missionaries.
• Claim approval can be lengthy.

While some travel insurance companies offer just a handful of plans, with IMG, you’ll really have your pick. Though this requires a bit more research, it allows you to search for coverage that fits your travel needs.

However, travelers will want to be aware that IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel Lite is expensive. Coming in at $149.85, it’s the costliest plan on our list.

Read our full review of IMG .

What else makes IMG great:

More affordable than average.

Many plans to choose from to fit your needs.

Best for travelers with unpredictable work demands: Tin Leg

• In addition Cancel For Any Reason, some plans offer cancel for work reason coverage.
• Adventure sports-specific coverage is available.
• Plans have overlap that can be hard to distinguish.
• Only one plan includes Rental Car Damage coverage available as an add-on.

Tin Leg’s Basic plan came in at $134 for our sample trip, adding about $8 onto the average basic policy cost. Note that you’ll pay a lot more if you shop for the most comprehensive coverage, and there are eight plans to choose from for trips abroad.

The multitude of plans can help you find coverage that fits your needs, but with so many to choose from, deciding can be daunting.

The only real way to figure out your ideal plan is to compare them all, look at the plan details and decide which features and coverage suit you and your travel style best.

Read our full Tin Leg review .

Best for booking travel with points and miles: TravelSafe

• Covers up to $300 redepositing points and miles on eligible canceled award flights.
• Optional add-on protection for business equipment or sports rentals.
• Multi-trip or year-long plans aren’t available.

Selecting your travel insurance plan with TravelSafe is a fairly straightforward process. The company’s website also makes it easy to visualize how optional add-on elements influence the total cost, displaying the final price as soon as you click the coverage.

However, at $136, the Basic plan was among the more expensive for our trip to Mexico.

What else makes TravelSafe great:

Rental car damage coverage add-on is available on both plans.

Cancel For Any Reason coverage available on the TravelSafe Classic plan.

Read our full TravelSafe review .

Best for group travel insurance: HTH Insurance

HTH Travel Insurance

• Covers travelers up to 95 years old.
• Includes direct pay option so members can avoid having to pay up front for services.
• A 24-hour delay is required for baggage delay coverage on the TripProtector Economy plan.
• No waivers for pre-existing conditions on the lower-level plan.

HTH offers single-trip and multitrip medical insurance coverage as well as trip protection plans.

At around $125, the Trip Protector Economy policy is at the average mark for plans we reviewed.

You can choose to insure group trips for educators, crew, religious missionaries and corporate travelers.

What else makes HTH Insurance great:

Medical-only coverage and trip protection coverage.

Lots of options for group travelers.

Read our full review of HTH Insurance .

As you shop for travel insurance, you’ll find many of the same coverage categories across numerous plans.

Trip cancellation

This covers the prepaid costs you make for your trip in cases when you need to cancel for a covered reason. This coverage helps you recoup upfront costs paid for flights and nonrefundable hotel reservations.

Trip interruption

Trip interruption benefits generally involve disruptions after you depart. It helps reimburse costs incurred for flight delays, cancellations and plenty of other covered disruptions you might encounter during your travels.

This coverage can cover the costs for you to return home or reimburse unexpected expenses like an extra hotel stay, meals and ground transportation.

Trip delay coverage helps cover unexpected costs when your trip is delayed. This is another coverage that helps offset the costs of flight trouble or other travel disruptions.

Note that many policies have a total amount a traveler can claim, with caps on per diem benefits, too.

Cancel For Any Reason

Cancel For Any Reason coverage allows you to recoup some of the upfront costs you paid for a trip even if you’re canceling for a reason not otherwise covered by your standard travel insurance policy.

Typically, adding this protection to your plan costs extra.

Baggage delay

This coverage helps cover the costs of essential items you might need when your luggage is delayed. Think toiletries, clothing and other immediate items you might need if your luggage didn’t make it on your flight.

Many travel insurance plans with baggage delay protection will specify how long (six, 12, 24 hours, etc.) your luggage must be delayed before you can make a claim.

Lost baggage

Used for travelers whose luggage is lost or stolen, this helps recoup the lost value of the items in your bag.

You’ll want to make sure you closely follow the correct procedures for your plan. Many plans include a maximum total amount you can claim under this coverage and a per-item cap.

Travel medical insurance

This covers out-of-pocket medical costs when travelers run into an emergency.

Because many travelers’ health insurance plans don’t cover medical care overseas, travel medical insurance can help offset out-of-pocket health care costs.

In addition to emergency medical coverage, many plans have medical evacuation or repatriation coverage for costs incurred when you must be taken to a hospital or return to your home country because of a medical situation.

Most travel insurance plans cover many trip protections that can help you be prepared for unexpected travel disruptions and expenses.

These coverages are generally aimed at protecting the money you put into your trip, expenses you incur because of travel trouble and costs incurred if you have a medical emergency overseas.

On top of core coverages like trip cancellation and interruption and travel medical coverage, some plans offer add-on options like waivers for pre-existing conditions, rental car collision damage waivers or adventure sports riders. These usually cost extra or must be added within a specified timeframe.

Typical travel insurance policies offer coverage for many unforeseen events, but as you research to select a plan, consider your needs. Though every plan differs, there are some commonly excluded coverages.

For instance, you typically can’t get coverage for a named storm if you bought the coverage after the storm was named. In other words, if you have a trip to the Caribbean booked for Sept. 25 and on Sept. 20 a hurricane develops and is named, you generally won’t be able to buy a travel insurance plan Sept. 21 in hopes of getting your money back.

Many plans also don’t cover activities performed under the influence of drugs or alcohol or any extreme sports. If the latter applies to you, you might want to consider a plan with specific coverages for adventure-seekers.

For numerous plans, a few other situations don’t qualify as an acceptable reason to cancel and make a claim, such as fear of travel, medical tourism or pregnancies (unless you booked a trip and bought insurance before you became pregnant or there are complications with the pregnancy). This is where a Cancel For Any Reason add-on to your coverage can be helpful.

You can also run into trouble if you give up on a trip too soon: a minor (or even multihour) flight delay likely isn’t sufficient to cancel your entire trip and get reimbursed through your plan. Be sure to review what requirements your specific plan has when it comes to canceling a trip, claiming trip interruption, etc.

Travel insurance costs vary widely. The final price of your plan will fluctuate based on your age, length of trip and destination.

It will also depend on how much coverage you need, whether you add on specialized policies (like Cancel For Any Reason or pre-existing conditions coverage), whether you plan to participate in extreme sports and other factors.

In our examples above, for instance, the 35-year-old traveler taking a $2,000 trip to Italy would have spent an average $76 for a basic plan to get coverage for things like trip cancellation and interruption, baggage protection, etc. That’s a little less than 4% of the total trip cost — lower than average.

If there were multiple members in a traveling party or if they were going on, say, a rock-climbing or bungee-jumping excursion, the costs would go up.

On average, travel insurance comes to about 5% to 10% of the trip cost. However, considering many of the plans reimburse up to 100% of the trip cost (or more) for disruptions like trip cancellation or interruption, it can be a worthwhile expense if something goes wrong.

It depends. Consider the following factors that might affect your decision: You’re young and healthy, all your bookings are refundable or cancelable without a penalty, your flights are nonstop, you’re not checking bags and a credit card you carry offers some travel protections . In that case, travel insurance might not be necessary.

On the other hand, if you prepaid a large chunk of money for a nonrefundable African safari, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise in the middle of a hurricane season or you’re going somewhere where the cost of health care is high, it’s not a bad idea to buy a travel insurance plan. Here’s how to find the best travel insurance coverage for you.

If you’re thinking of booking a trip and not planning to buy travel insurance, you may want to consider at least booking refundable airfare and not prepaying for hotel, rental car and activity reservations. That way, if something goes wrong, you can cancel without losing any money.

Selecting the best travel insurance policy comes down to your needs, concerns, preferences and budget.

As you book, take a few minutes to consider what most concerns you. Is it getting stranded because of flight trouble? Having the ability to cancel for any reason you see fit without losing money? Getting sick or injured right before departure and needing to postpone the trip? Injuring yourself or falling ill while overseas?

Ultimately, you want a plan that protects you, your money and the large investment in your trip — but doesn’t cost too much, either.

Medical coverage. If your priority is having adequate medical coverage abroad, you might want to look for plans with high limits for medical emergencies and medical evacuation.

Complex travel itinerary. If your itinerary has lots of flight connections, prepaid hotels and deposits for activities you can’t get back, prioritizing a plan with the best coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions may land at the top of your list.

Travel uncertainty. If you’re on the fence about a trip and have nonrefundable reservations, you may want to select a plan with a Cancel For Any Reason coverage option, which can help you recoup about 50% to 75% of the costs. This helps provide peace of mind, placing the decision on whether to travel entirely in your hands.

Car rentals. If you’re renting a car, a collision damage waiver is often worth looking into.

The following destinations are the top insured destinations in 2024, according to Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner).

The Bahamas.

Costa Rica.

Antarctica.

In 2022, travelers spent about 25.53% more on trips than they did before the pandemic.

As of December, NerdWallet analysis determined travel prices are 10% higher than pre-pandemic. Each statistic makes a strong case for protecting your travel investment as you plan your next trip.

Bookmark these resources to help you make smart money moves as you shop for travel insurance.

What is travel insurance?

CFAR explained.

Is travel insurance worth getting?

10 credit cards that provide travel insurance.

Here is the list of travel cards offered by Chase that include various forms of travel insurance.

Having one of these in your wallet is a good start to protecting your travel investments and preventing expensive accidents; however, savvy travelers check card terms closely and sometimes supplement with a third-party policy, like from one of the companies above, to better protect themselves.

on Chase's website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 12 hours.

• Car rentals: Theft and collision damage for most cars in the U.S. and abroad.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

• Trip interruption: Up to $1,500 per person and $6,000 per trip.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for three days.

We used the following factors to choose insurance providers to highlight:

Breadth of coverage: We looked at how many plans each company offered plus the range of their standard plans. 

Depth of coverage: We considered two data points to get a sense of how much each company pays out for common travel issues — the maximum caps for trip cancellation and trip interruption claims.

Cost: By looking at the costs for basic coverage across multiple companies, we determined an average cost for shoppers to benchmark plan prices against.

Customizability: While standard plans can cover a lot of ground, sometimes you need something a little more personal.

Customer satisfaction. Using data from Squaremouth when available, and Google Reviews as a backup, we can give kudos to companies with better track records from their clients.

No, it doesn’t necessarily get more expensive the longer you wait to purchase. However, as you put off buying insurance, you may lose access to potential plans and coverage options.

In general, buying travel insurance within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

But, generally, many plans do allow you to buy coverage quite close to your departure date.

To get the most out of your travel insurance plan, buy it soon after making your initial prepayment or deposit to ensure you have access to the biggest menu of plans possible.

Select a plan that’s comprehensive enough to cover the travel scenarios you’re most concerned about or likely to encounter but not too expensive or laden with protections you’d never likely need.

Whatever your coverage, thoroughly review the plan so you understand what’s covered and what’s not, plus how to adhere to the plan’s rules for making a claim.

Travelers frequently use phrases like “trip insurance” and “travel insurance,” as well as “trip protection,” interchangeably, but they do mean different things, according to Stan Sandberg, founder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com.

Trip insurance, or trip protection, generally refers to predeparture (or preevent) coverage if you need to cancel. You may see these plans sold by airlines, online travel agencies or even ticketed event sellers.

“You could refer to it as the portion that protects the investment in the trip,” Sandberg says.

A travel insurance plan typically includes that — plus more comprehensive benefits to protect you during your trip, from medical coverage to trip delay and lost baggage protections, and many more elements, depending on the plan.

Though travel insurance is typically not required for international trips, your personal circumstances will play a key role in whether it’s a good investment.

For instance, young, healthy travelers with few prepaid trip expenses embarking on a relatively risk-free trip may not see a need to buy a plan.

Older travelers with complicated itineraries who are visiting destinations where they could potentially fall ill or get injured — or who could encounter bad weather or some other disrupting factor along the way — may want to buy coverage.

Consider a few key questions:

How well would your health insurance plan cover you if you needed to visit a hospital overseas?

How much did you prepay for a hotel or rental car?

How much money would you be out if weather or some other flight issue derailed your itinerary?

Could you afford an unexpected night in a city where you have a connecting flight?

Do you already have a credit card that provides some travel protections?

Your answers to these questions can help you decide whether you need travel insurance for your international trip.

In general, buying travel insurance

within a few days to two weeks of prepaying or making an initial deposit

for your trip is your best bet. Assuming you’re not booking last-minute, this will provide you with access to the widest possible range of coverage options. It also helps prevent any medical conditions or storms that pop up between booking and buying a plan from ending up as excluded situations, which won’t be covered by your plan.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

On a similar note...

The Ultimate Motorcycle Travel Insurance Guide

This guide’s job is to explain both motorcycle insurance and motorcycle travel insurance. Getting the right insurance policy for your motorcycle adventure is incredibly important, so read on to avoid pitfalls and make sure make sure you’re properly covered for your motorcycle trips and adventures.

The Motorcycle Travel Insurance Guide

Welcome to the motorcycle travel insurance guide. There’s a lot to cover in this guide, so we’ve split it into two sections. First is motorcycle insurance and the second section is personal motorcycle travel insurance. They are different things but both very important and we aim to provide as much info as possible to help you on your travels. But, please note that we are not insurance specialists or financial experts. Everything expressed here is simply our opinion and for informational purposes only. 

Motorcycle Travel insurance vs Motorcycle Insurance

Your motorcycle travel insurance policy and motorcycle insurance policy are two completely separate things. Neither cover the other. However, these two policies are often confused and thought of as one. Here’s the difference…

Motorcycle travel insurance is personal insurance and covers your medical bills in case of an accident while travelling. When we say ‘motorcycle travel insurance’, we mean personal insurance that will still cover your medical bills even if you are riding a motorcycle at the time of the accident (because a lot of insurance companies wont cover you if riding a bike). Motorcycle travel insurance is not compulsory or a legal requirement, but highly recommended. 

Motorcycle insurance only covers your motorcycle in case of theft or damage and provides compensation and cover to third -parties. This insurance will not cover your health while abroad, and if you’re from the UK, then once you’re out of Europe it won’t cover your bike either. It is a legal requirement to have motorcycle insurance to ride in most countries – you will need to research each country you plan on travelling through. 

As mentioned, neither policy will cover the other. You will need two separate policies – one for you personally and one for your motorcycle. 

Motorcycle Insurance Explained

What is motorcycle insurance.

Motorcycle insurance is an insurance policy taken out with a company that covers you, your bike and third-parties. As a minimum, your policy will have third-party insurance, that means other people, their vehicles and property along with liability are covered. You can upgrade your insurance policy to cover fire, damage and theft to your own motorcycle. Every country has different rules on vehicle insurance and what is required to legally operate a vehicle on public roads. It is your responsibility to know what is required and to get the appropriate insurance before riding. 

Motorcycle insurance for adventure travellers

This article focuses on personal motorcycle travel insurance – insurance for you, not for your motorcycle. But, you may be wondering what happens with your motorcycle insurance when travelling or going on big trips. Here’s what you need to know about that.

There is no worldwide motorcycle insurance policy. Or if there is, we don’t know about it. That means, if you’re going on a big trip, or even riding round the world, you’re not going to be able to get cover for your bike from one company that will insure it for third-party and theft and damage wherever you go. 

However, you can get motorcycle insurance policies that will cover you to ride in specified countries. These are typically neighbouring countries. For example, if you’re from the UK and have a bike registered and insured in the UK, then you know you need motorcycle insurance to legally ride on UK roads. Your insurance policy may cover you to ride in Europe for a set amount of time. You will need to check how long your policy allows and may have to pay extra for this or to increase the time it’s allowed out of the UK. But, bear in mind, your policy will not cover your bike outside of Europe and you will need to check which countries in Europe are covered.  

If you’re from the US with a US insured bike, you may be able to get insurance that covers you to also ride in Canada. If you’re in India, you may be able to get insurance that covers you in Nepal. But, there’s no insurance that blanket covers your bike internationally.

Motorcycle insurance abroad  

So, what happens when you want to ride a foreign registered motorcycle into countries that are not covered by your policy, for example if you ride your UK insured bike outside of Europe or your US insured bike into South America? The answer is that you will need to abide by that country’s laws on insurance. It is your job to research each one and find out what you need. 

Bear in mind, for the majority of countries, it is exceptionally difficult or even impossible to get fully comprehensive insurance (insurance that covers your bike against theft or damage) for a foreign registered motorcycle and you will only be able to get third-party insurance (insurance that covers other people who are involved). That means, your motorcycle won’t be covered. So if it is stolen or damaged, then you’re footing the bill.   

When it comes to purchasing the insurance, for example, when entering Turkey you will need Green Card insurance, your UK provider might give you this or you might have to buy it at the border. When riding in Australia, the US or Canada you need to buy insurance to cover your bike and it may even cover theft or damage, when in New Zealand you’re not required to have any insurance at all, when riding in some countries you may have to buy third party insurance at the border and it’s not worth the paper it’s written on. However, we always recommend buying at least third-party liability insurance in case you are involved in an accident and someone is injured or property is damaged.

In the Destinations section of our website, you’ll find country guides and motorcycle travel guides for each country which explain what its insurance requirements are. For any country not listed, please research what their rules are before you go. 

READ MORE: Motorcycle Destination Guides

Motorcycle Travel Insurance Explained

As discussed above, motorcycle travel insurance is travel insurance for your medical bills that will cover you – even if you are on a motorcycle. We call it motorcycle travel insurance because these tend to be specialist policies. Not all insurance policies will cover you to ride a motorcycle, and even if they do, or even if you add it on as a paid extra, you still might not be covered to ride a high-capacity bike or to ride a motorcycle as your main mode of transport. This is why it’s important to read the pitfalls section below. 

In short, your motorcycle travel insurance will cover your hospital bills, emergency care and repatriation for you personally (not your motorcycle) while you are travelling.  

Why motorcycle travel insurance is important

Motorcycle travel insurance, like riding gear, isn’t important until the second you need it. Then it’s quickly the most important thing in your entire life. After 16 years of riding and travelling in far flung countries all over the world, travel insurance has pushed its way further back in mind, relegated to an afterthought – something I’ll sort out a few days before leaving, a cheap deal and a piece of paper with some random numbers on it.

Only when Alissa severely broke her leg in Nepal and we faced a £20,000 hospital bill, did it become our now most important document.

Luckily, we had an excellent policy that covered all the bills and put us both on a first class flight home. 

It’s not something we can mess around with or do half-heartedly as motorcycle travellers. It’s incredibly important and needs to be done right. So, we pulled this guide together to explain what motorcycle travel insurance is all about, how to get the right policy and what to look out for. And most importantly, to provide information to make sure you are fully covered. So, you’ll find sections below explaining common pitfalls and things to look out for when choosing your policy.

Lessons learnt

Make sure you have a solid motorcycle travel insurance policy in place before you go. Read through all of the pitfalls listed below and the checklist at the bottom of this article. 

Don’t skip or rush through buying a policy, there’s nothing like needing it and worrying that you haven’t checked the fine print. 

But, your policy aside, another big takeaway we had after Alissa’s crash was getting help in the first place. We were in the middle of nowhere and the help that eventually arrived was awful. Even once we spent an hour getting to hospital in a little jeep, that hospital couldn’t perform the surgery and it was a further 13 hours to Kathmandu hospital. What we needed was an emergency satellite device to call for immediate help and take us via helicopter to Kathmandu. 

We’ve now learnt that lesson and carry a device. We’ve also pulled together this article to explain what they are and how to use them. 

READ MORE: Emergency Satellite Devices Explained

Recommended Motorcycle Travel insurance for Adventure Bike Riders

Here is our recommended motorcycle travel insurance provider for adventure bike riders, motorcycle tours and round the world travellers from the UK. This company only provides insurance for UK nationals, other nationalities will need to source insurance from their home country. 

We have been using Big Cat Travel Insurance for the last three years and plan to do so for the remainder of our round the world motorcycle trip.

We reckon Big Cat are the best and most comprehensive motorcycle travel insurance company out there for UK nationals. Here’s why…

There are a lot of caveats when it comes to finding travel insurance for motorcycle riders. It also becomes very difficult when you’re looking for long duration policies (and near impossible for round the world trips). But, whether you’re on a one-week riding tour or year-long adventure, you must make sure you’re properly covered. And we’ve found that Big Cat fully covers those caveats and is also exceptionally flexible and makes life easy when it comes to duration, renewals and coverage.

Capacity and main mode of transport

Firstly, travel insurance companies don’t like covering motorcycles over 125cc. Even if a policy says you are covered to ride a bigger bike, in the fine print it may not allow you to ride it as your ‘main mode of transport’ or for an extended period of time either. But you can do all the above with Big Cat by simply selecting their ‘activity pack’ add-on.

Start and duration

Here’s the important bit for long-term travellers. Since Covid, a lot of motorcycle travel insurance providers cut their policies to six months max with no option to renew while abroad – instead, you must fly home to the UK and stay in the UK for a set period of time (usually a few months) before you can renew and be covered to ride abroad again.

Big Cat offers a long-term policy of up to 24-months – and you can easily extend your policy online or over the phone. Importantly, you do not need to return to the UK to renew, extend or take out your policy either – which is a must for most providers.

Home visits

With Big Cat, you can return home and fly back out multiple times and still be covered under the same policy. Any single trip policy over four months in duration has unlimited home visits. This is perfect if you need to fly back for any reason as you don’t have to cancel, pause, renew or suspend your policy.

A big one for adventure bike riders is being covered to ride off-road. Big Cat have no set definition of off-road. Most terrain is covered so long as it is not unsupervised enduro riding.

Emergency devices

This is an important one for us as we carry a satellite device in case of emergencies whereby we can send out an SOS signal for help. These can’t be used if you’re lost and just fancy a helicopter ride, but if you have a serious bodily injury and need immediate rescue, then your insurance policy should cover this.

Pre-existing medical conditions

Big Cat also offers the option to declare pre-existing medical conditions. Remember that any pre-existing conditions that you choose to not declare will not be covered, but anything unrelated would be covered as normal. Alissa had a bad motorcycle crash in Nepal and broke her leg, so it’s important for us to declare this. 

Remember that travel insurance is different to vehicle insurance. Your travel insurance will cover your medical bills and repatriation in the event of an accident or injury. No third party or personal liability coverage is provided. Third party liability is always covered under your vehicle motorcycle insurance hence why it is excluded from a travel insurance policy cover. So, you will need to make sure you have motorcycle insurance for each country you travel through as well.

Also note that if you damage your bike, your travel insurance will not cover costs incurred for transporting the bike back to the UK.

If you’re planning any type of motorcycle trip, ride or adventure – travel insurance is an absolute must. There’s nothing more important than covering your health and safety. But finding good insurance that fully covers you is tricky. That’s why we’re recommending Big Cat. With them, we have peace of mind that we’re both fully covered to ride our motorcycles round the world. Their policies are comprehensive and perfect for adventure motorcycle travellers. We recommend getting in touch with them to discuss your trip and any questions you may have.

Visit their website here: bigcattravelinsurance.com

Motorcycle Travel Insurance Pitfalls

What to look out for when buying motorcycle travel insurance.

There are many pitfalls when choosing motorcycle travel insurance. A lot of people buy insurance and go on their trips thinking they’re fully covered, but really their policy doesn’t cover them for riding at all. This next section below looks at the fine print and explains what you need to look out for.

It is aimed at riders from the UK, but the information below is applicable to any rider from any country and are things you should ask your insurance provider regardless of where you’re buying the policy from. 

Not insuring the entire trip can leave you uninsured

You should insure the whole trip and your policy should start on your UK departure date. It might be tempting to leave the purchase of your motorcycle travel insurance until you get overseas and start the serious riding. For instance, if you are hiring a Harley to do Route 66, many people think it’s fine to just get travel insurance for the rental period. This is a mistake, the policy must cover the entire trip, from UK departure until the day that you arrive back in the UK. 

You might not be covered if you’re out of your home country for more than six months

Most of the cheaper motorcycle travel insurance policies carry a little-known definition of UK residency, which states that, in order to qualify as a UK resident (which you need to be to be eligible to buy the policy), you must not have been out of the UK for more than 6 months out of the past 12 months. 

This crazy rule is an attempt to exclude non-UK residents, but in reality, it can penalize UK residents who travel a lot, or have recently returned from a long overseas trip and now want to buy cover for another trip. 

Watch out for capacity and condition restrictions in the small print

Some travel insurance policies will not cover motorcycling at all. Others say that it is covered, but on checking the small print, you might find that it’s restricted to 125cc. Make sure that you choose a policy that will cover motorcycling up to the cc of the bike that you are using. A good motorcycling policy will cover you to ride any cc bike, as long as you are licensed to ride a similar sized bike in the UK. 

You also need to check whether there are restrictions for off-road use, if that is what you are doing. There are not many policies that cover off-roading, most will say on-road only, though often, this does not have to be tarmac roads, as long as they are official highways, marked on a map as such, and passable to “normal” traffic, such as cars, buses and trucks. There will almost certainly be a requirement to wear a helmet, even if local law does not insist on it.  

Are you covered to ride full-time?

You should also check for clauses stating that motorcycling is only covered “on an incidental basis”, meaning that it will not be covered, if motorcycling forms a significant part of the trip or is your main mode of transport.

What about risky countries?

Insurance in risky countries is a major problem. What we mean by ‘risky’ are countries that the UK’s Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against “all travel to” or “all but essential travel to”.

Unfortunately, if you visit risky regions, your policy will be invalid and you will have no cover at all in those countries. There may be “high risk” policies out there, but they’d need to be Googled to find the durations. It’s more common than not, that policies become invalid if you travel to dangerous areas. Consider the areas you’re travelling to carefully and whether or not you’ll be insured there.

Call first! This one’s important…

In the event of an emergency or serious medical problem, the 24-hour emergency number must be notified as soon as possible about the situation. It is often the hospital that makes this call, to get a guarantee for their charges, but you need to try and ensure that the contact details are available to them when they need them.

This is extremely important, as the insurer can refuse to pay a claim, if they were not given notice of the situation, as often absurdly expensive and unnecessary treatment can be put in place by unscrupulous organizations, and the insurer will want to have some input. 

We know of a case recently, where someone was knocked off a motorcycle on a busy US highway, in a city central area. They suffered a relatively minor injury, and somebody called out a helicopter air ambulance when a standard road ambulance would have probably been quicker. The bill was sent into the insurer for about £45,000 and is still currently in dispute.

The amounts for air evacuation can be eye-watering. We know of another case where air ambulance evacuation was made from a remote area of Mongolia for a relatively minor motorcycling injury (broken leg). The bill for that evacuation was around £100,000 and was necessitated and agreed, due to the wild and remote location of the accident.

Motorcycle Travel Insurance Checklist

Have a read through the below motorcycle travel insurance checklist to make sure you’re fully covered for your bike trips.

How much medical cover do you need?

It may surprise you, but travel insurance medical claims in excess of £1.5 million are virtually unheard of. £5 million medical cover should be more than enough. “Unlimited” medical cover is a gimmick and £10 million is a bit over the top. Check the other sections of the policy though, to ensure that it gives sufficient baggage and cancellation cover for your needs.

Got the right cc motorcycle?

Make sure that your policy covers motorcycling up to the cc of the bike that you will be using.

Are you covered off-road?

If you want to venture off road, make sure your policy will cover you.

Are you licensed to ride a similar bike at home?

Unsurprisingly, insurance companies are not prepared to cover you to ride a bike that you cannot ride at home.

Are your helmet, leathers and boots covered?

Either on your bike policy or on a specialist travel insurance policy.

Have you been out of the country lately?

Make sure that the residency requirements of your travel insurance policy are suitable for your situation. Some are for UK residents only, some for EU residents. Many have a clause stating that you must have been in the UK for at least 6 months out of the previous 12 months to be classed as a UK resident. This can make it very tricky for those who travel a lot.

Legally allowed to ride abroad?

Make sure you are legal to ride in your destination country. Is a UK licence OK? Or do you need an International licence or a local permit? Is your motorcycle insurance valid for riding in your destination country? If you get nicked for riding illegally, your travel insurance won’t help. Sometimes it is not a legal requirement to wear a crash helmet, but you must wear one to be covered on a travel insurance policy, irrespective of what the local law says.

Is there anything competitive about your riding? Motocross or motorcycle racing are not covered by normal travel policies, and in cases where these sports can be covered, there will be a large supplement to pay.

Single or annual trip policy?

If you are buying Annual Multi-Trip travel insurance, make sure that the maximum individual trip duration is sufficient for your plans. Annual Multi-Trip policies always have an individual maximum trip duration, usually 31, 45 or 62 days per trip. Longer trips would need covering on a Single Trip policy.

Medical conditions?

Declare any pre-existing medical conditions. Many policies exclude cover for claims arising from any pre-existing medical conditions, unless you go through a medical screening process and have cover accepted, often at extra cost. Some policies automatically cover some stable and controlled conditions, without medical screening.

Is your paperwork accessible?

Electronic documentation has done away with the old system of giving you a card with your 24-hour emergency details on it, that you could carry in your wallet. Make a note of this number and your policy number, so that it is readily available in the event of an emergency.

Read more on motorcycle travel guides and paperwork

Thanks for checking out the Motorcycle Travel Insurance Guide. We hope you enjoyed it! Here’s a few more articles on motorcycle travel paperwork that we recommend you read next. And check out our comprehensive Motorcycle Travel Guides for each country as they list visa and paperwork info.  

• Motorcycle Travel Admin Guides
• Emergency Satellite Devices Explained
• Motorcycle Travel Paperwork Explained
• How to Stay Safe on a Bike Trip
• Blog Post Nepal: A Wrong Turn

Liked that? Try these next…

How to Stay Safe on a Motorcycle Trip

The Best Adventure Motorcycles

Motorcycle Touring for Beginners

Motorcycle Travel Guide: Europe

The Ultimate Motorcycle Trip Packing List

How to Choose Your Adventure Bike Riding Gear

We hope you found this Ultimate Motorcycle Travel Insurance Guide helpful. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below!

27 thoughts on “The Ultimate Motorcycle Travel Insurance Guide”

Honestly that’s fantastic information that yous have mentioned.

Hi Malcolm! Thank you very much for your comment! Really glad you found it useful! 😀 All the best! Andy

Great article. Very, very helpful. I was wondering, would you write a guide on insurance in general? For example, what about vehicle insurance and breakdown etc? Especially for bike touring in Europe?

Hey! Thanks! Yes, we’re actually putting loads of time into the Europe Motorcycle Country Guides at the moment and are going to be adding an insurance guide to go with that section detailing the differences. I’ll let you know once that’s up! Thanks 🙂

Fantastic guide very helpful. Am thinking of an extended tour through Turkey and into Asia next year (2022), covid permitting. Would welcome any updates if available. Thanks a million, Jim.

Hi Jim, Thanks for your comment, glad you liked the guide! Sounds brilliant! Where abouts into Asia are you thinking of heading? No updates as of yet, still waiting for everything to open up again, but we’ll do our best to post as and when updates are available. Cheers,

Some great advice here, thank you Anyone have any recommendations for “off road” riding in Europe, i.e. non legal roads?

Hi Peter, thanks for your comment and glad to hear you found it helpful! In answer to your question on off-road riding, I have a few guides on our site that might be of help!

UK The Beginner’s Guide to the Trans Euro Trail And take a look at our Trail Riding Tour Companies in the UK page. It recommends trail riding tour companies in the UK, but also has guides on how to go trail riding and 6 of the best routes in the UK etc.

If you’re specifically after off-roading though, then have a look at this page: The Best Off Road Schools in the UK

Europe If you go to the Europe Destinations page you’ll find all the countries we have guides on. If there’s a specific country you’re interested in riding off-road there may be a guide in there explaining how to go about it.

And finally, if you want to join an off-road tour in Europe, take a look at this page: Recommended Motorcycle Rental and Tour Companies Finder . There are some awesome off-road companies on there.

Hope this helps, Cheers, Andy

Many thanks Andy Will take a look and providing I survive this event https://www.illyriaraid.com/home 🙂

Oh wow, that looks awesome! Well if you’re after a rally-type event then i’d definitely recommend the Hard Alpi Tour. It’s a 24-hour rally through the French and Italian Alps. Non-competitive as well. I’ve done it twice and absolutely loved it. Let us know how you get on! Cheers, Andy

Hi, we’re off to the USA next month and hiring a Harley for 1 day. We have already bought our travel insurance for the holiday but as we’ve now hired a Harley for the day need extra cover for medical expenses if we have an accident. Is there any companies that do travel insurance for a few days and do you have any names of companies who I could try? Thanks

Hi Sarah, Sounds like a great trip you have planned! Have you tried Navigator insurance (mentioned in this article) first? Richard may be able to offer advice on recommended companies? Additionally, have you contacted the company who you already have bought the insurance through, they may add motorcycle cover as a bolt-on considering it’s not your primary form of transport. Cheers, Andy

Thanks for your quick reply. Yes we’ve tried our travel insurance company and they don’t cover for larger cc motorbikes. I’ve emailed Navigator and not heard back and tried calling them but they’re permanently engaged. I’ll try them again. Is it Richard from Navigator I need to speak to? Thanks

Hi Sarah, Ah that’s a shame. Yeah a lot of companies don’t offer for larger capacity bikes. The difficulty is finding a company that will offer a single day’s worth of cover, which i’m not too familiar with as we’re usually dealing with companies that provide longer durations. Yes, it’s Richard who you want to speak to. Strange that it’s permanently engaged? They’re normally very good at answering.

If not, for the US you can try these two companies: Voyager travel insurance and Big cat travel insurance ,

Please do let us know how you get on, Cheers, Andy

Thank Andy that’s very helpful

I’ve used Navigator for a few years now and recommend. Good rates, easy to set up and decent cover. The bit about being able to use unsealed roads is important as well. If you’re an adventure bike rider, this is potentially very important.

As a footnote, I was AMEX family multi trip beforehand until they changed their underwriters and removed bike cover – check your policy small print every renewal.

Hi Richard, thanks for your comment. Yeah, agreed, they’ve proved to be a great company for motorcycle travellers. And those are excellent notes regarding checking the fine print and sealed roads! Cheers and all the best, Andy

Great article, myself & my partner Sandy have a big trip booked leaving the UK at end of May heading for Canada – travelling East to West – the dropping into USA, hopefully Mexico & Central America & with an eye on getting to NZ & Australia, Philippines, Vietnam & neighbouring countries. There is a good chance this will take more than 6mths. Is it going to be possible to get cover or will it have to be renewed when out on the road? Many thanks, great work Chris & Sandy

Hi Christopher, thanks for your comment and that’s fantastic to hear you’re planning such a huge trip! We will be in Canada / Alaska area around June / July / August this year and then heading south towards Texas. So it sounds like we may cross paths. It would be great to meet up for a coffee if you’re up for it 🙂 In answer to your question, yes, you can get extended cover. For this I would contact Big Cat Travel Insurance as they offer longer terms and can be extended. Speak to Chris and he’ll help you out. Hope this helps,

ps. on a side note, we’re in the process of writing guides for Australia and New Zealand including shipping procedures etc, so check back soon for those as they may help with that section of your travels.

Cheers and hopefully see you on the road one day!

Thanks for writing this up. Very helpful. On the topic of insurance, I found it difficult to find any bike insurance that covers my trip to India/Nepal outside Europe. Do you have any advice on getting a bike insurance for travelling outside europe?

Many thanks!

Hi Tian, Are you talking about personal travel insurance that covers you to ride a motorcycle while travelling? Or are you talking about insuring your motorcycle? Cheers, Andy

Thanks for your reply.

I was talking about insuring the bike outside EU.

Thanks, Tian

Hi Tian, Ah okay, so I’m assuming you’re motorcycle is registered in the UK or Europe. If so, it’s near impossible to find a company that will insure your motorcycle outside of Europe as a temporary import. You can of course get third-party insurance at borders for your bike (which is a legal requirement for many countries) but to cover against theft or damage is very unlikely. Cheers, Andy

Hi guys, You may have mentioned it in the comments above but do you have any names of insurers for US Citizens. That would be insurance for me while riding a motorcycle in Vietnam. I am travelling for work but trying to squeeze in the loop up north. I leave in 3 days and just saw your article now. Glad i did. thanks

Hi Jerard, I would try http://www.imglobal.com . Hope this helps! Andy

Hi, i have another question. I have a limited time for a trip in Vietnam. A company recommended Black River Loop instead of a shortened Ha Giang trip. Have you guys done Black River Loop? thanks

Hi, no we haven’t ridden the Black River Loop. I would contact Danny as he’s the expert on Vietnam routes. You can find his details in the Motorcycle Travel Guide: Vietnam Cheers and have a great time! Andy

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Warning on motorcycle travel insurance

Just because you have travel insurance does not necessarily mean you will be covered for riding a motorcycle when travelling overseas as some riders have found out too late.

Veteran tour operators Mike Ferris and Peter Colwell have advised riders to carefully check the fine print and exclusions on their travel insurance before heading overseas on the “trip of a lifetime”.

“There are those of us old enough to remember a gravelly-voiced Karl Malden in the 1970s spruiking the leading credit card of the day, with his closing tagline always, ‘Don’t Leave Home Without It’,” says Mike of World on Wheels (formerly Ferris Wheels).

“Surely the same should be said for Travel Insurance. Never, ever, consider heading off to foreign  shores without a comprehensive travel insurance package in place.”

However, many insurance companies do not cover motorcycling at all, says Peter Colwell, founder of   Te Waipounamu Motorcycle Tours .

“The insurance promoted by card companies like Mastercard and American Express, when their cards are used to purchase a ticket, is void as soon as you hop on a bike,” Peter also warns.

“Nobody seems to mention travel insurance, but it has the potential to break you if you have an accident abroad.

“I know from my experience with Te Wai in New Zealand that the number of people booking foreign commercial motorcycle tours has just gone ballistic in the last few years. So either everyone is either keeping mum, or going without insurance.” 

Peter advises that Australian Medicare extends to some countries with some qualifications and exceptions such as New Zealand.

“New Zealand also has a system whereby accidents of any type are covered medically. However, the option to sue for damages is forfeited, no matter what the cause of the accident,” Peter says.

But you will still need travel insurance and Peter uses a company called Insure & Go .    

“I have never made a claim so don’t know how they react to that. But they do cover legal motorcycling fully on any size bike,” he says.

“There are some enlightened companies that will insure when certain conditions are met.”

Size matters

Mike says some travel insurance will include motorcycles, but exclude bikes over 250cc.

“That’s great if you’re buzzing a scooter around Bali but pretty useless if you’re intending to do some serious motorcycle touring overseas,” he says.

For the past two decades, his motorcycle tour company has been an agent for Aussie Travel Cover which does not have a 250cc restriction.

“If you’re licensed to ride a big bike, you’re covered to ride a big bike,” he says.

“Believe me, we’ve put them to the test quite a few times over the course of 20 years and they’ve always come through. Even with the occasional helicopter evacuation, they have covered all costs once the paperwork is all in order.”

A  World On Wheels website portal allows riders to access the insurance system. World On Wheels customers can obtain an immediate quote and qualify for a   special 15% discount.

ACT rider Robert Crick  warns that complimentary travel insurance offered by banks is limited to engine capacities of 200cc or 250cc.

He says key insurance issues relating to motorcycling not only include the engine capacity of the bike, but also requirements relating to licence and motorcycling gear, hirer insurance excess, personal liability and compensation for death or permanent disability.

Check his insurance comparisons here .

Some insurers also exclude “motorbike touring” which means you are not covered if the motorcycle is your primary means of transport. You are only covered for incidental use of a motorcycle.

Travel insurance saves

“Some people consider insurance to be expensive,” Mike says. “But if you look at the total package of your airfares, accommodation, transport, meals, and overall activities you’ll be engaged in, you’ll probably find it only adds 1% or 2% to your total spend.

“We can tell many a story where an insurance policy has saved our clients from potential bankruptcy after suffering a serious accident overseas.

“Don’t find yourself in a foreign hospital racking up expensive bills with no backup plan. Do the research, do the math, buy yourself some peace of mind with a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Don’t Leave Home Without It.”

In fact, World On Wheels will not accept a participant on any of their international riding  tours without proof of an insurance policy in place.

“The old adage is, If you can’t afford travel insurance you can’t afford to travel,” he says.

I’ve been using a top Australian insurance company called Travel Insurance Direct, which includes cover for riding motorcycles overseas. Your cover is only for the capacity of motorcycle that you are licensed to ride. Haven’t had the opportunity to make a claim yet but pretty sure there will be a few hoops to jump through. Everything can be done on an app on your phone, which is pretty handy

After reading your piece on travel insurance for motor Cycling I contacted Insure and Go. Whilst they cover the individual for medical expenses in the event of a crash, they DO NOT cover liability or damage or theft to the motor cycle. This would leave the rider very exposed. The insurances available through a company such as Eagle Rider are charged at a daily rate and are very expensive.

Thanks guys used the World of Wheels link in your add and found the referral to Aussietravelcover. Am travelling to the USA this Sept/Oct 18 and needed cover renting a Harley from Buddy Stubbs Harley in Phoenix had all the other insurance but no medical and the referral was great full 100% coverage whilst travelling. check out my blog http://www.thebigusaride.com

Thanks Mike Kennedy

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These are the 4 best motorcycle insurance companies to cover your bike

We ranked the top motorcycle insurance companies based on availability, discounts, financial strength and coverage..

Whatever type of motorcycle you have in your garage, chances are that you need insurance to cover it. Almost all states require you to have coverage on your motorcycle, and it can benefit you in a variety of situations. 

Whether you’re a first-time owner or a veteran rider, your insurance coverage is an important part of your motorcycle setup. Standard motorcycle insurance policies include bodily injury liability coverage and property damage liability coverage, which pay for any damages you may cause to others, but there are a number of optional coverages available as well, such as comprehensive and collision coverage.

Here, CNBC Select analyzed motorcycle insurance companies and picked out the four that stand out for their availability, discounts, financial strength and coverage (see our methodology for more information on how we made this list).

Best motorcycle insurance 

• Best for various types of motorcycles: State Farm
• Best for availability: Progressive
• Best for bundling: Geico
• Best for discounts: Harley-Davidson Insurance  

Best for various types of motorcycles

State farm motorcycle insurance.

The best way to estimate your costs is to request a quote

Policy highlights

Offers coverage for a variety of two- and three-wheeled vehicles licensed for public road use. Comprehensive and collision insurance offers coverage for gear like helmets and protective clothing and roadside assistance coverage.

App available

• Service from one of the largest auto insurers in the US
• Strong ratings for customer service and financial strength
• Quotes not available online

Who’s this for? As one of the largest insurers in the nation, State Farm is widely available and offers coverage options for all types of motorcycle owners.

Standout benefits: State Farm offers a variety of other coverages for your home , car and other types of vehicles, allowing you to bundle your policies and save. Some motorcycle insurance policies also come with roadside assistance coverage.

[ Jump to more details ]

Best for availability

Progressive motorcycle insurance.

Progressive motorcycle insurance offers full replacement cost coverage for parts and covers OEM parts as a standard part of their motorcycle policies. Optional coverage choices include coverage for contents carried on your bike, like phones and camping equipment.

• Many options to customize your policy
• A variety of discounts are available
• Not available in Massachusetts

Who’s this for? Anyone who needs to cover vintage motorcycles, sport bikes, cruisers and more can find coverage through Progressive . With a wide variety of vehicles covered and many opportunities to save, Progressive’s motorcycle insurance offers flexibility and affordability.

Standout benefits: Progressive offers 11 different discounts, including ones for bundling your insurance policies, completing a safety course, being a responsible driver, paying in full, paying on time and even for switching or transferring from another company. Progressive also offers small and large accident forgiveness and disappearing deductibles.

[ Jump to more details ]  

Best for bundling 

Geico motorcycle insurance.

Geico boasts strong rankings for financial strength and customer auto claims satisfaction. It covers bikes of many sizes and shapes, and coverage is available in all 50 states.

• Highly rated for financial strength
• Covers a wide variety of motorcycles
• Limited additional coverage options

Who’s this for? Geico could be a good option for those who also own a car and want to bundle their auto and motorcycle insurance policies. It was one of CNBC Select’s top picks for car insurance and could help customers save while managing their policies together. 

Standout benefits: Geico’s motorcycle insurance is available in all 50 states, and also offers seven different discounts. 

Best for discounts 

Harley-davidson motorcycle insurance.

Harley-Davidson is a recognizable name within the motorcycle community that also offers insurance. Available in 48 states, the brand offers coverage for a number of types of motorcycles, including trikes, sport bikes, and cruisers.

• 13 discounts available
• No other types of insurance sold

Who’s this for? For those who want to save money on their motorcycle insurance, Harley-Davidson offers a total of 13 discounts, including a discount for those who have a long history of riding, are members of the Harley Owners Group and for those with a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license. 

Standout benefits: Harley-Davidson insurance covers a wide variety of types of motorcycles, making it a good option for enthusiasts with highly specific bikes. You don't need to own a Harley-Davidson to enroll for coverage — Harley-Davidson Insurance is available for almost all makes and models.

More on our top motorcycle insurance companies

State farm motorcycle insurance .

State Farm is available nationwide and offers many other lines of insurance to allow for bundling, including auto insurance, homeowners insurance, small business insurance , life insurance and more. It’s rated highly in its auto claims customer satisfaction, has an A- rating from the BBB and is highly rated by AM Best for financial strength.  

States available

Not disclosed

Discounts available

Other factors to consider

You’ll need to contact an agent in order to get a quote. 

[ Return to summary ]

Progressive motorcycle insurance

Progressive is well-regarded for its breadth of policies and availability. Progressive's motorcycle insurance policies offer some impressive features, including full replacement cost without depreciation for parts and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts coverage. It also offers many different easy-to-attain discounts.

49, not available in Massachusetts 

11, including discounts for motorcycle endorsements and association memberships

Progressive offers coverage for a wide variety of motorcycles, including vintage motorcycles, scooters and mopeds, and custom bikes. 

Geico has an A++ financial strength rating from AM Best and is competitive for customer satisfaction. It insures a wide variety of bikes including cruisers, touring bikes, sport bikes and custom motorcycles. Geico also offers several different motorcycle specialty coverages, such as accessories coverage and helmet coverage, and offers ATV and scooter insurance.

Geico offers other insurance policies like homeowners insurance, renters insurance and auto insurance to bundle your coverage and save.

Harley-Davidson insurance, underwritten by the Sentry Insurance Group, offers coverage for a variety of motorcycles — no matter the make or model — and with many different money-saving discounts. Harley-Davidson also promises to use genuine replacement parts for repairs.

48, not available in Alaska, Hawaii, or Washington, DC

13, including discounts for Harley Owners Group members, on-time payment discounts and military and law enforcement discounts

Harley-Davidson doesn’t offer any other types of insurance, so you’ll have to manage other things like car insurance policies separately.

What does motorcycle insurance cover?

• Which motorcycles are the most expensive to insure?  
• How can I lower my motorcycle insurance cost?  
• Is motorcycle insurance required?  

When shopping for motorcycle insurance, you’ll want a policy that covers the following: 

• Bodily injury and property damage liability coverage: This coverage can help pay for damages to other vehicles and injuries if you’re liable for an accident.
• Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: This type of insurance can help if you’re hit by an uninsured person, or someone who doesn’t have enough coverage to pay for your injuries.
• Comprehensive and collision coverage: Comprehensive coverage can cover things like theft or vandalism, while collision coverage pays out when your motorcycle is damaged in an accident. Comprehensive and collision coverage isn't required for motorcycles, but can be helpful in these situations. 

Additionally, some insurers offer coverage to protect your bike and your gear. Here are a few things to consider if you’re looking to enhance your coverage: 

• Custom parts and equipment coverage: If you’ve spent a lot of money on upgrading your bike with parts and accessories, it might be worth covering them. You might be able to purchase extra coverage for these upgrades depending on your state and insurer. 
• Coverage for riding gear: Some insurers offer coverage for your gear, including your helmet and boots.
• Roadside assistance: If your ride breaks down, you may be able to get help with roadside assistance. 

Which motorcycles are the most expensive to insure? 

Sports bikes are generally the most expensive type of motorcycles to insure. However, many factors, including your age, location and the amount of experience you have riding might also influence the price you’ll pay for coverage. 

How can I lower my motorcycle insurance cost? 

There are several ways to lower the price you’ll pay for coverage. Some common options include: 

• Paying your premium in full. Generally, insurers offer a discount for those who opt to pay their full bill. 
• Shopping around for coverage. Each insurance company considers your personal information and data differently, so getting quotes from several different insurers could help you make sure you’re getting the best deal for you. 
• Take a motorcycle course. Insurers may offer you a discount if you take a motorcycle riding course. 

Is motorcycle insurance required? 

Almost all states (except Florida) require motorcycle insurance before you can legally register your bike. However, the amount of insurance required varies by state. And, having insurance can help protect you financially if you’re involved in an accident. 

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every motorcycle insurance review is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of insurance products . While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See our methodology for more information on how we choose the best motorcycle insurance companies.

Our methodology 

To determine the best motorcycle insurance companies,  CNBC Select  analyzed dozens of U.S. insurance companies that come with policies to suit a variety of needs.

When narrowing down and ranking the best motorcycle insurance companies, we focused on coverage, availability, ease of use and customer satisfaction. We considered the number of states where coverage is available, the number and types of motorcycle models covered, financial strength ratings from AM Best (which measures a company’s ability to pay on debts), the number of discounts available, and the customer satisfaction with claims from J.D. Power’s US Auto Claims Satisfaction Study . 

From there, we sorted our recommendations by the best overall and runner-up, best for bundling, and best for discounts. 

Note that the premiums and policy structures advertised for motorcycle insurance companies are subject to fluctuate in accordance with the company’s policies. 

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Best Motorcycle Insurance of 2024

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As soon as the snow begins to melt around my home, it's time to get the Harley out. In addition to checking the battery and doing other routine maintenance, this is also when I review my insurance coverage. I want to know that my husband and I are protected when we're riding, and that the bike is too. At the same time, I never want to overpay. With that in mind, I reviewed the best motorcycle insurance of 2024, and found some standouts.

• Best for seasonal riders: Progressive
• Best for affordability: GEICO
• Best for multiple bikes: Markel
• Best for discounts: Harley-Davidson
• Best for high-risk drivers: Dairyland
• Best for customized bikes: Foremost
• Best for bundling: Safeco

Whether you're a dedicated daily bike commuter or a weekend warrior, you want to know that you and your bike are protected while you're on the road. The best motorcycle insurance companies of 2024 offer policies that are easy to understand and provide liability, personal injury, collision, and comprehensive coverage for your motorcycle.

Compare the Best Motorcycle Insurance of 2024

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Can scale back coverage for the off season
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Widely available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Some negative customer reviews

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Low rates
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High customer service ratings
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Variety of discounts available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not the cheapest in every state

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Significant multi-vehicle discount
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Mechanical breakdown coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Trailer coverage available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Diminishing deductible for each year without an accident
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Often more expensive than competitors

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Many discounts available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Replacement cost coverage for customizations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Rental coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not the cheapest option

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Good rates for those with an accident on their record
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. More expensive than average

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional coverage to protect up to $30,000 in customizations
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Vintage coverage plan for older bikes
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No online quotes available

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Discounts for bundling policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Guaranteed OEM parts for repairs
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional Harley replacement cost provision
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Not available nationwide

Motorcycle Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

No, car insurance never covers motorcycles. If you're riding, it's important to have another policy in addition to your auto insurance policy. Depending on your provider, it may be possible to get a discount for bundling your auto and motorcycle insurance policies. 

We've found that the national average for motorcycle insurance is $519 a year, or $43 per month. However, rates vary widely based on the state you live in and the type of insurance you're buying. Your age, driving record, and the type of bike you're insuring all impact how much you'll pay for motorcycle insurance. 

No, it's not a good idea to cancel motorcycle insurance entirely during the winter. Firstly, that will leave your bike entirely unprotected and may violate the terms of your loan, if you have one. In addition, insurers may decide not to cover you in the future. Instead, look for a policy that offers you a winter layup or "laid up" rider. This lets you drop your coverage down to minimal amounts during the months when your bike will be off the road. 

Motorycle Company Reviews

Progressive motorcyle insurance.

Progressive is a large national insurance provider known for its low rates. It's widely available and convenient, which means if you're shopping for motorcycle insurance you're likely considering Progressive. That's great, since Progressive is our pick for the best motorcycle insurance for seasonal riders. Because of frigid winter temperatures, most American riders are at least somewhat seasonal. 

While it might be tempting to cancel your insurance altogether when your bike is off the road, that's not a great idea. If you have a loan, not having insurance might violate the terms. Plus, you want to know your bike is protected in case of incidents that aren't related to riding, like theft or fire. Progressive won't let you cancel your motorcycle insurance for the winter, but you can change your policy at any time. That means you can drop coverage back to the bare-bones essentials for the months when you're much less likely to be on the road, and get fuller coverage for times when you'll be riding more.

Read our Progressive insurance review .

Geico Motorcyle Insurance

Most Americans are probably familiar with the Geico Gecko, but that's not the only reason to appreciate this insurance provider. Geico Insurance is available nationally and has low prices. It's also known for great customer service on auto policies, and it's safe to assume some of that would translate to motorcycle policies too. We love that rates are super low: In fact, a bare-bones policy for a basic bike might only cost $100 annually. At that price, you'd be silly not to have protection. 

Your state plays a big role in your motorcycle insurance premiums. Geico is the cheapest motorcycle insurance in 16 states, including California and New York. You'll have to enter your specific information to get a quote, but Geico makes that easy to do online, so you can determine if this company is the cheapest for you.

Finally, Geico offers discounts to its already low rates, including a 10% discount for completing a safety course and a 20% discount for instructors with the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. You can save 10% on each policy if you insure multiple bikes and 5% on your motorcycle insurance if you also get your auto insurance through Geico.

Read our Geico insurance review .

Markel Motorcyle Insurance

Although Markel isn't a household name like Geico or Progressive, it's one of the best motorcycle insurance companies, especially if you're insuring more than one bike. For starters, Markel offers a multi-vehicle discount that can take a chunk off your insurance costs. But I'll be clear: Markel is still more expensive than the competitors in many cases. 

And yet, Markel provides great value, especially for motorcycle enthusiasts. I particularly appreciate the mechanical breakdown coverage. That will take care of the costs of specific parts that need to be replaced depending on the make, model, and year of your bike. Having that coverage can make all the difference when you're hit with an unexpected mechanic bill that you weren't expecting. If you're keeping more than one bike on the road that savings alone can add up quickly. Long distance riders will also love that Markel provides trailer coverage for trailers that your bike is towing (not trailers that the bike is towed on). 

Another perk is Markel's diminishing deductible. For each year that you go without an accident, Markel reduces your deductible by 25%, until it reaches $0. That's on top of the existing safe driver discount. While that benefit is great for solo riders, it can really boost your budget when you consider it over policies for multiple bikes. 

Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Insurance

Harley-Davidson isn't just one of the most beloved bike brands in America; it's also a great option for motorcycle insurance, no matter what type of bike you ride. While Harley-Davidson motorcycle insurance is pricier than some other options, it offers great value, like replacement cost coverage for customizations, rental coverage for when you're riding a rented bike, and roadside assistance specific for motorcycles.

To help you reduce the cost of motorcycle insurance, Harley-Davidson has lots of discount programs. You'll get a discount if you own your home, have a motorcycle endorsement on your license, pay on time, or have a long riding history. There are deductions for time without a claim, completing a safe riding course, insuring a new bike or multiple bikes, and having a Harley Owners Group (H.O.G.) membership (which usually costs $29-49 a year). Law enforcement and military members get a discount too. 

With all those cuts to the bottom line, Harley-Davidson motorcycle insurance isn't as expensive as it might first appear. Plus, if you're looking for an insurer that understands motorcycles and their riders, you can't go wrong with Harley. 

Dairyland Motorcyle Insurance

Motorcycle riding can be risky, so it's understandable if you've been involved in an accident in the past. Unfortunately, accidents, speeding tickets, and other red flags on your driving record can make your insurance rates skyrocket. 

Dairyland, while more expensive than other insurers on average, has great rates for people who are classified as high risk drivers or who have less than squeaky-clean driving history. The company is known specifically for serving these clients. So, although their rates skew higher at first glance, you might find that Dairyland is more affordable for your specific circumstances.  

Foremost Motorcyle Insurance

If you truly love motorcycles, you know the joy doesn't just come from riding. It also comes from customizing your bike with the perfect low boy seat, ape hanger handlebars, or shiny paint job. While most motorcycle insurance policies don't cover the cost of customizations, Foremost allows you to design a policy that protects all the time, effort and money that you've put into your bike. 

Foremost has the coverages you'd typically expect, like liability and collision. But the insurer also offers optional equipment coverage that protects up to $30,000 in customizations. If your bike is getting up there in age, Foremost has a vintage coverage plan for motorcycles that are 25 years old or more. You can also add coverage for your helmet, equipment, and trailer that transports your motorcycle. The cost of all of those items can add up fast, especially for collectors, so it's great to know they're protected in the event of an accident or emergency. 

SafeCo Motorcyle Insurance

SafeCo is a major insurance company that offers home, auto, motorcycle insurance, and more. That makes it ideal for bundling your policies and saving a bit of cash. This is the motorcycle insurance policy I purchased. Because I already had home and auto insurance bundled through SafeCo, adding a bike was simple and affordable. 

That wasn't the only reason I chose SafeCo. It's one of the only motorcycle insurers that guarantees OEM manufacturer parts on repairs. As a Harley rider I also liked the optional Harley-Davidson Replacement Cost Provision. If you opt into that rider SafeCo will pay the full replacement value for your Harley. 

Read our SafeCo insurance review .

Other Motorcycle Insurance Companies We Considered

We looked at largest and most widely available motorcycle insurance policies when coming up with our list of the best options, and not every single company made the cut. Here are the other insurers we considered, and why they don't appear in our list:

• Nationwide: Nationwide is a widely available motorcycle insurance company, and you may have other policies with it already, like home or auto insurance. We love that Nationwide lets you cover multiple bikes on one policy, but found that its policies are often more expensive than competitors, especially for people who ride lots of miles each year. 
• State Farm: State Farm insures motorcycles and three-wheeled bikes around the country, offering perks like a mobile app and 24/7 customer support. Unfortunately, we couldn't get past the numerous customer complaints online. 
• USAA: USAA has a stellar reputation and affordable motorcycle insurance policies. The only downside is that you must be active military member, a veteran, or a family member of one of those groups to qualify for a USAA policy. That limited availability is why we didn't include the company, but if you're able to qualify for a USAA motorcycle insurance policy, it's a great option. 
• Erie: Erie offers motorcycle insurance and coverage for ATVs, so it's a great option for people who have lots of toys they need to insure. The downside to Erie is a fair number of customer complaints.

Our Expert Panel for the Best Motorcycle Insurance of 2024

Although I also shop for motorcycle insurance annually, I'm not an expert. So, I reached out to two insurance professionals to help me with this roundup. They talked to me about what motorcycle owners should consider when finding the best motorcycle insurance for them. 

• Greg Heller is an insurance agent, the owner of Maverick Insurance Group , and also a motorcycle enthusiast. He discussed the building block of motorcycle insurance plans, and how he uses insurance to mitigate his risk as a rider. 
• John Espenschied, owner of Insurance Brokers Group , discussed what seasonal riders should look for, and how to make sure that your motorcycle insurance policy aligns with what your state law requires.

Our Experts' Advice on Choosing the Best Motorcycle Insurance

It may be tempting to think that you don't need motorcycle insurance or that you can get by with the bare minimum that your state requires. But that's a recipe for disaster, Heller says. 

"The bottom line: stuff happens and we never see it coming," he says. 

If your bike is financed, you'll likely need a hearty motorcycle insurance policy, with comprehensive, collision and liability coverage. But that level of coverage may not be worth it if you own the bike outright and would just replace it if it were in an accident, he says. 

Once you know what coverage type is right for you, consider any requirements. 

"Some states require motorcyclists to purchase minimum liability limits, so make sure to double-check the laws in your state before purchasing a policy," Espenschied says. 

Finally, consider riders that provide coverage for customizations or equipment. 

Motorcycle Insurance Shouldn't Be an Afterthought

No matter your riding habits, it's important to take time to find the policy that's right for you. Don't only think about premium prices, but consider how you'd feel about your insurance coverage if disaster strikes. 

"Motorcycle insurance is essential for protecting yourself financially against losses due to accidents or theft," Espenschied says. "Even if you're only riding occasionally during certain times of the year, having proper insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that if something does happen while out on the road, you won't be left with a large financial burden."

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Motorcycle Insurance

In addition to my personal experience and information from Heller and Espenschied, I followed Insider's insurance rating methodology , which included researching multiple insurance company reviews and the original websites for these companies. I looked at the type of coverage offered, any riders available, average pricing, and customer reviews.

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Five Best Motorcycle Insurance Companies for 2022

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They say four wheels move the body, but two wheels move the soul. While the best motorcycle insurance doesn’t have fun slogans or look good in leather, choosing the right provider could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars over the life of your motorcycle. So before you tap your kickstand and hit the open road, take a look at coverage options from the best insurance companies on the market.

This article may include references to products or services where The Drive has an affiliate relationship with the providing company. The Drive and its partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Read more .

Best Insurance Companies for Motorcycles

Best for daily drivers: dairyland.

• Best for New Drivers: Harley-Davidson

Best for Track Riders: Foremost

• Best for Liability-Only Coverage: Progressive

Best for Discounts: Harley-Davidson

• Best for Custom Motorcycles and Collectors: Markel

Best for Military Servicemembers and Veterans: USAA

• Rental reimbursement
• Discounts for both members of rider groups and Harley Ownership Group (H.O.G.)
• Coverage for high-risk riders
• Quotes available online
• Guest passenger insurance not included with standard personal injury protection
• Not available in all states

Frequent riders and those who rely on their bike for daily transportation will find comfort with Dairyland’s rental reimbursement coverage, 24-hour hotline for speedy claims processing, and roadside assistance.

Traffic accidents and breakdowns are unwelcome disruptions to riders who use their bike for the daily grind. This is why Dairyland reimburses policyholders for costs associated with a rental vehicle while waiting for repairs. And with its physical damage plus add-on, repairs are made with genuine original manufacturer replacement parts. Also, the insurer’s total loss replacement pays for replacement of motorcycles that are three years old or newer.

In addition to the usual lineup of coverage, Dairyland provides riders with options for specialty equipment, roadside assistance, and property damage. Yet, for those who frequently ride with a spouse or partner, guest passenger insurance will need to be purchased separately.

Homeowners and those who transfer their policy to Dairyland will enjoy added savings, as will members of the Harley Owners Group and other affiliated rider clubs (you can stack these two discounts). With 4.5 stars from Trustpilot , you can also expect competitive pricing and good customer service. 

Best for New Riders: Harley-Davidson Insurance

• Specialized equipment coverage
• Money-saving opportunities with multiple discounts
• Financing, extended warranties, and maintenance plans also available
• No other types of insurance policies offered

New riders can find one-stop shopping with this iconic American motorcycle manufacturer. Not only can you purchase a bike directly from Harley-Davidson, but your local dealership also offers financing, extended warranties, and insurance policies that cover all types of motorcycles.

Few insurance companies understand riders and their bikes better than Harley-Davidson, which is why its insurance division specializes in motorcycle coverage. The downside of this specialization is that the company doesn’t provide any other types of insurance coverage. So people who prioritize saving money on their policy through bundling auto and homeowners insurance with their bike coverage may need to look elsewhere.

Still, Harley-Davidson Insurance also offers an outstanding selection of discounts to keep your premiums affordable. In fact, it has so many discounts, Harley-Davidson Insurance is also our pick for Best Motorcycle Insurance for Discounts. We’ll explore the savings in more detail below. Rest assured, this provider is a strong choice for both new riders and motorists who can take advantage of its multiple price reductions.

Harley-Davidson has the standard policies one expects from an insurer, but it also offers a robust menu of add ons to further customize your coverage. You can repair or replace snazzy aftermarket parts, as well as your bike’s stylish leather and paint job. It also offers rental reimbursement for when your motorcycle is being repaired and vacation rental coverage for those who just want a summer tour. Also, unlike other providers on this list, Harley-Davidson Insurance will provide an extended warranty for up to seven years and a maintenance plan.

• Liability coverage includes towing, roadside assistance, and first accident forgiveness
• Off-the-shelf packages available
• Low-speed electric vehicle coverage
• Limited discounts offered
• Limited information available on website

Track riders are a different breed. They’re daring and brave, and they need an insurer that is equally bold. Indeed, Foremost is one of several providers plucky enough to insure track riders, even on competition days. Foremost also provides policies for a variety of bikes, including vintage motorcycles and low-speed vehicles.

Foremost is a subsidiary of the well-known Farmers Insurance Company. Unlike its parent company, Foremost’s coverage comes in a variety of packages, including Saver, Plus, and Elite. Each package comes with its first accident forgiveness and towing and roadside assistance benefits. These perks are even extended to those who are purchasing Foremost’s liability-only plan. Yet, for those speeding their way around a racetrack, the Plus and Elite packages include its coveted track-day coverage.

The provider also has packages for vintage motorcycles that are 25 years old or older, custom bikes with more than $30,000 in optional equipment, and low-speed electric vehicles. Those speciality bikes, however, cannot enjoy Foremost’s total loss settlement that replaces bikes purchased new for up to five years (most insurers have a three-year threshold). You can also insure your motorcycle trailer, which is a nice touch for those with multiple bikes.

Despite all of the positives, those who look for discounts may be unimpressed. Foremost does not offer many savings opportunities outside of multi-vehicle, multi-policy (you can bundle Foremost and Farmers policies), and discounts for riders who have a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license. Still, high-risk riders may find Foremost cheaper than other insurers.

Best Liability-Only Coverage: Progressive

• Total loss coverage for five years
• Diminishing deductible included with comprehensive and collision
• Quotes available online, by phone, and in person
• Not all discounts are available in all states

Progressive is a sound choice for all types of motorcycle riders, not just for those who are purchasing a liability-only policy, which is the minimum coverage required by most states. But with liability starting at only $75 a year, few will find better rates anywhere else.

Riders have a lot to like about Progressive. All policies include its full replacement cost with a no depreciation for parts benefit that restores your bike to pre-accident condition, without taking into account the depreciated loss in value for your parts. In fact, Progressive’s complimentary original equipment manufacturer (OEM) coverage ensures that you’ll get original parts when repairs need to be made.

This is why Progressive may be the best deal in town for liability-only coverage. Not only do you get access to the perks mentioned above, but liability policies start at $75 per year. Keep in mind that the price you get will depend on additional factors, such as your driving record and your bike’s value. Also, for those who financed a motorcycle, your lender might require full coverage until the loan is paid. But many drivers who own their bikes outright will find the rates ideal. 

Progressive also rivals Harley-Davidson when it comes to discounts. It also offers a wide variety of savings opportunities for those who make timely payments, sign up for automatic bill pay, or pay their annual premium in full. You’ll also get discounts for taking a motorcycle safety course and for being a member of a riding club. And unlike Harley-Davidson, you can bundle your motorcycle policy with homeowners and auto insurance to save even more.

• Financing, extended warranties, maintenance plans also available

Harley-Davidson knows the motorcycle industry inside and out, which is why this venerable brand appears twice on my list. I chose it as the best for new riders and because of its extensive selection of discounts that help policyholders drive down the cost of their insurance policies without compromising on coverage.

Discounts are price reductions offered by insurance companies that help policyholders save money on their annual premiums. This is why deal seekers often evaluate a provider by the number of discounts they can take advantage of each year. The more discounts you have, the cheaper your monthly premium will be. 

Harley-Davidson Insurance offers more high-value discounts than any other insurance company. You’ll be treated to additional savings for buying a new bike, being an experienced rider or a homeowner, paying on time, and having an eligible anti-theft device. Similarly, you’ll get discounts for renewing your policy, being claim free or a member of the Harley Owners Group, and successfully completing its H-D Riding Academy Course. Veterans and active-duty service members also enjoy special savings, too.

Harely-Davidson insures all types of motorcycles, and coverage is available in most states (Alaska, Hawaii, and Washington, D.C. are not included). But if you live in a covered state, you will have protection in those excluded locations.

Best for Custom Motorcycle Owners and Collectors: Markel

• Mechanical breakdown coverage
• Generous 25 percent disappearing deductible
• Funeral expense coverage
• No mobile app
• Not available in Massachusetts and North Carolina

Motorcycle collectors, riders with classic or custom bikes, and motorists with distinctive insurance needs might find Markel’s customizable coverage advantageous. While this provider is among the smaller companies on this list, Markel is a prestige service that might please a niche segment.

Apart from Markel’s accident forgiveness program and its diminishing deductible — it awards a 25 percent reduction on your deductible for each consecutive year without accidents — this boutique insurer provides the customary coverage you’d anticipate. But it also features some unique add-on coverage.

It’s these extras that may make Markel appealing to motorcycle collectors or policyholders who have engineered their own custom rides. Collectors with a vault of classic bikes will enjoy an agreed-value settlement that pays out the appraised value established at the beginning of your policy. For fully loaded bikes, you can purchase additional accessory coverage in $1,000 increments, up to a $30,000 maximum.

Everyday riders, or those with older bikes, may also find value in Markel’s mechanical breakdown coverage that pays for non-accident repairs due to normal wear and tear. When you add a wide range of discounts to its value statement, it’s no wonder that many consider Markel to be among the best motorcycle insurance companies on the market.

• Low-cost coverage
• Coverage available to children, spouses, and former spouses of military service personnel 
• Coverage not available to the general public

Eligible veterans and military service members will enjoy deep discounts on their motorcycle insurance through USAA. This provider generally has the lowest insurance premiums available, but not everyone can enjoy the savings.

Because of their sacrifice and service, veterans and military personnel enjoy benefits that are not available to the general population. One such well-deserved bonus is access to USAA Insurance, which provides some of the lowest insurance rates for homeowners, auto, life, health, and, of course, motorcycles. The good news is that children, spouses, and former spouses of military service members also qualify for coverage from this exclusive provider.

USAA provides eligible riders with four types of basic protections: comprehensive and collision, bodily injury and property damage liability, uninsured and underinsured motorist, and medical payments. Similarly, policyholders can further reduce the cost of their coverage through several discounts including completion of a safety course, responsible driving, and multi-policies.

USAA has contracted out its motorcycle insurance to Progressive. So, while you may not have access to all of Progressive’s policies and discounts, you will enjoy a flat 5 percent premium reduction on Progressive’s lowest prices. 

Average Cost of Motorcycle Insurance

One independent survey ballparks the average cost of motorcycle insurance to be about $700 annually in the U.S. Other sources estimate that average at about $1,000 per year. The reason for the variance is because, as with mortgage loan rates, the insurance premium you’ll get will be determined by your specific situation. In other words, your insurance rates will be largely based on your motorcycle’s dollar value and engine size and your personal policyholder profile. Other variables also impact what you’ll pay for insurance. These include:

• Age and value of the motorcycle
• Frequency of use
• Where you live
• Your claims history
• Your driving record and experience

However, you can still lower the cost of monthly insurance premiums by comparing quotes and qualifying for as many policy discounts that your provider offers.

How to Save on Insurance

The first rule of saving money on an insurance policy is to shop around. Agreeing to the first quote you get can be an expensive mistake. As a rule of thumb, you should get quotes from three to five insurance companies. Shopping itself will fetch you a lower insurance rate.

Besides comparing quotes, here are a few more tips to save money on insurance.

• Forgo full coverage: If you’re financing your bike, your lender probably requires full coverage until the loan is paid. But if you own your motorcycle outright, dropping full coverage can be an effective way to lower your monthly premiums. Keep in mind that by dropping collision and comprehensive, you’ll have to pay for repairs and personal injury out of pocket. But for lower-value bikes, the savings may be worth it.
• Raise your deductible: Increasing your deductible is often the quickest way to lower your policy premium and keep your collision and comprehensive coverage. Plus, when you can afford more agreeable coverage, it’s simply a matter of setting the deductible back to its original value.
• Join a riding club: Not only do some insurance providers offer savings to members of motorcycle clubs, a riding group is a unique opportunity to compare notes with other enthusiasts.
• Bundle your policies: Most insurers will offer some form of multi-policy discount when you bundle policies for your home, car, and motorcycle together. Some providers even have bundle discounts for life insurance policies.
• Take advantage of discounts: Choosing an insurance company that offers multiple opportunities for discounts can be a prudent move. 

Here’s how to look out for discounts and which ones I recommend. Each insurance company may have a different title for their discounts, and, certainly, individual providers each offer their own unique selection of discounts. But these common options will help keep your motorcycle insurance premiums low.

• Multiple-bike discounts: For those who are lucky enough to have more than one bike in their garage, providers will often offer a discount when you insure them all.
• Safe driving record: While the time frames will vary, many insurers offer savings to riders who have a clean driving record for anywhere between three and five years.
• Home ownership: Many motorcycle insurers offer additional savings to homeowners, and you may even enjoy a multi-policy discount when you bundle your bike and homeowners policies.
• Riding group member: Many providers understand there is safety in numbers, which is why you may earn savings for being a member of an insurer-affiliated club, such as H.O.G., American Legion Riders, Red Knights, LAMA, and GWRRA.
• Motorcycle safety course: Drivers who complete a safety certification typically receive extra savings.
• Installed safety devices: Motorcycles equipped with safety features, such as airbags or anti-lock brakes, will often enjoy discounted rates.
• Transferred policies: If you take your business elsewhere, the new place might give you a good welcome discount.

Essential Cost Variables for Insurance

A host of variables can affect the cost of your insurance. 

Young drivers pay more for insurance than older motorists because age is one of many cost variables that determine rates. In fact, one study found that teenage drivers pay more than 300 percent more than their grandparents.

Although insurance companies are coming under increasing scrutiny for using gender as a cost variable for insurance policies, research shows that women typically pay lower rates than men. This gender gap begins to balance out as motorists age. Several states including Hawaii, Michigan, and North Carolina have legislation in place prohibiting the use of gender to establish insurance costs.

Credit Score

Just as banks and credit-card issuers use your credit rating to determine your likelihood of paying back a loan, insurance providers use scores to forecast your probability of filing a claim. Generally, higher credit scores equal lower insurance premiums, while higher insurance rates go to those with a lower credit rating. According to one source , motorists with “very poor” credit pay more than $1,500 more for insurance each year than those with exceptional credit.

Providers use a policyholder’s ZIP code to determine risk based on nearby crime rate, environmental threats, and traffic congestion. Additionally, since auto insurance is regulated by each state, your location is a determining factor in your minimum coverage requirements.

Data suggests that riders in states such as California and Louisiana pay, on average, more than $1,000 per year for motorcycle insurance. On the other hand, those living in North Dakota and Iowa may pay less than $400 annually for similar coverage. Additionally, drivers in rural areas will typically pay less than those in crowded metro areas.  

Type of Motorcycle

Insurance companies base the cost of your premium largely on the type of motorcycle you drive. Your bike’s value, age, engine capacity, and crash and theft rates are all used to calculate your premium. A bike with an engine of smaller displacement will cost much less to insure than a sports bike with larger displacement. Similarly, an expensive Harley-Davidson cruiser will cost more to insure than a used Yamaha dual sport.

Type of Coverage 

It’s no surprise that the amount of coverage and the size of your deductible will affect the cost of your motorcycle insurance. The more coverage you buy, the more you’ll pay. Similarly, the lower your deductible, the more you’ll pay. While most states require only liability, you’ll find an array of protection and add ons. Full coverage — which is liability, collision, and comprehensive — will obviously cost more than liability alone. When you add extras, however, such as total-loss replacement and roadside assistance, you’ll pay upwards of 30 to 40 percent more than you would for a standard full-coverage policy. 

While titles and premiums may vary by provider, these are the common types of motorcycle coverage:

• Liability: Covers both vehicle damage and medical costs for others.
• Personal injury protection: Covers damages to other’s property.
• Collision: Covers damage to your motorcycle due to roadway accidents, regardless of fault.
• Comprehensive: Covers damage unrelated to roadway accidents such as fire, vandalism, and theft.
• Uninsured or underinsured motorist: Covers damage from other motorists.
• Personal injury protection: Covers your medical costs and lost wages due to an accident.
• Guest passenger liability insurance: While this coverage for your passenger is sometimes included alongside personal injury protection, its inclusion will depend on your provider. Unlike cars and RVs, which generally have more than one passenger, motorcyclists are often single riders. As such, some insurers will not automatically include passenger protection.

Talk to your agent to explore your options and consider limiting your policy to the protections that you think you’ll actually need.

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

Is full coverage on a motorcycle worth it?

As a rule of thumb, if your motorcycle is worth $5,000 or more, you should consider full coverage. If your bike is not worth $5,000, it’s likely that, over several years, the higher policy premiums will exceed the value of your vehicle. In this case, you may consider purchasing the minimum required liability insurance, forgoing collision and comprehensive, and paying for repairs out of pocket with the money you’ll save.  A policyholder who rides a motorcycle daily or relies on one as their primary mode of transportation might see real value from full coverage. In this instance, rather than waiting on another driver’s insurance company or being sidelined by theft, you’re back on the road.

How can I lower my motorcycle insurance?

There are a number of ways to lower your motorcycle insurance, the simplest being to increase your deductible and reduce your coverage. Your deductible is the amount you’re responsible for paying when you file a claim. So, the higher your deductible, the lower your monthly premium costs.  Furthermore, when your insurance policy has fewer coverage add ons, such as roadside assistance or total loss coverage, you’ll pay less to insure your motorcycle. Other common ways to lower the cost of motorcycle insurance include bundling multiple policies with a single insurance company, taking full advantage of any available discounts, and completing a safety certification course.

Can I cancel my motorcycle insurance for the winter?

Yes. Unless your state has mandatory year-round coverage, you can cancel your motorcycle insurance during the winter months. However, you might face early termination fees, and legally, you will be unable to ride. If you’re financing your bike, your lender may require coverage until the loan is paid. Your motorcycle also won’t be covered in the event of damage or theft.  A better option to save money on your insurance during the winter is to enroll in “laid up” or “lay up” policies for bikes that are officially in storage. Lay-up policies basically pause liability and any other coverage you normally carry, but retain comprehensive coverage, which insures against theft, fire, and other non-accident damage.  A third option to save money during the winter is to simply raise your deductible. Policyholders who raise their deductibles effectively lower the monthly cost of their premiums. It’s a low-effort strategy to pay less for insurance during the winter, without compromising your coverage or paying a termination penalty.

How does motorcycle insurance work?

Motorcycle insurance works similarly to auto insurance in that it protects the rider from financial liability should they cause an accident while on their bike. A motorcycle insurance policy might also insure against damages or losses due to theft, fire, or other hazards as well as bodily injury protection to cover medical expenses and lost wages. Some insurance companies also offer additional coverage for passengers, motorcycle accessories, carried contents, original equipment manufacturer parts, and more.

Our Methodology

To choose the best companies and products for this list, I looked at a large number of financial products from various providers. I focused on cost, product features and options, ease of use, customer service, and past customer ratings as the most important factors in our ratings.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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Motorcycle travel insurance.

As motorbike insurance specialists, we have developed a range of travel insurance products designed for bike enthusiasts on road, track or dirt:

• Motorbike Touring Travel Insurance - Whether riding your own bike in the EU or maybe hiring a bike for Route 66 you will need a travel insurance policy that allows you to ride a proper motorbike abroad with proper cover in place (many restrict cover to mopeds and scooters only). Up to £10m to cover your emergency medical and repatriation costs in the event of an accident on the road or if riding off-road Charlie Boorman style on an adventure bike, plus many of the usual travel insurance benefits like cancellation cover.
• Trackday Repatriation Insurance - If you've escalated your hobby from UK track days to full on Euro trackday trips then this is the cover for you. Not only does it cover you for up to £250k emergency medical and repatriation costs for injuries incurred on an overseas circuit (you can even add amateur racing cover), it also provides a contribution towards your damaged leathers and riding gear too!
• Dirt Bike Repatriation Insurance - If you like to get dirty on overseas trips, for example riding motocross in Spain, then you will need insurance that covers you for what many travel insurance policies consider to be 'dangerous sports' (many exclude things like motocross). You can even add cover for motocross racing, as well as enduro and trials events, grass track and so on (if you're just riding a normal bike off-road then our Touring Cover above includes this as standard).

And remember, if you've already booked your travel, don't delay... In the words of Martin Lewis from Money Saving Expert - "As soon as you book" (ASAB) - to ensure you have cancellation cover in place in case your trip is cancelled for specific reasons.

Trackday Repatriation Insurance

• Up to £250,000 Emergency Medical Costs
• Up to £100,000 Emergency Repatriation Costs
• Bike Accidents on Track (Option for Amateur Racing)

Dirt Bike Repatriation Insurance

• Off-Road Bike Accidents (including Amateur Racing)

Motorbike Touring Travel Insurance

• Up to £10,000,000 Emergency Medical Costs (Touring)
• Contribution towards damaged riding gear

If you're after cover for your bike instead, then check out our other products:

• Road: Motorbike Insurance and Multi Bike Insurance
• Track: Track Insurance Products
• Dirt: Off Road Insurance Products
• SORN: Laid Up Insurance

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State Farm Motorcycle Insurance Review

Our team takes a deep dive into State Farm motorcycle insurance, examining coverage options, average costs, industry reputation and customer reviews

Daniel is a MarketWatch Guides team writer and has written for numerous automotive news sites and marketing firms across the U.S., U.K., and Australia, specializing in auto finance and car care topics. Daniel is a MarketWatch Guides team authority on auto insurance, loans, warranty options, auto services and more.

Alyssa is a MarketWatch Guides team editor covering personal finance, insurance and loans.

State Farm is the nation’s largest auto insurer, with over 19,000 local agents spread across the U.S. That local touch also makes State Farm a good option if you’re looking for motorcycle insurance.

We at the MarketWatch Guides team have researched and ranked the country’s best motorcycle insurance companies. We give State Farm an overall rating of 8.8 out of 10 stars and name it our Top Choice for Local Service.

Key Takeaways:

• Motorcycle insurance customers give State Farm positive reviews online.
• State Farm’s motorcycle insurance rates tend to be higher than the competition.
• State Farm’s extensive presence of local agents make it our Top Choice for Local Service.

Pros and Cons

How we rate state farm, does state farm have motorcycle insurance.

State Farm offers a wide variety of coverages for motorcycle riders. The only real caveat is that it’s difficult to find specific details on the company’s motorcycle insurance plans. If you’re interested in State Farm’s motorcycle coverage, your best bet is to contact your local agent. From there, you can customize a plan that’s right for your budget and coverage needs.

State Farm Motorcycle Insurance Reviews

State Farm holds a B rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), along with an A++ financial strength rating from AM Best. Google reviewers give the company a star rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on more than 950 reviews.

Customer reviews on platforms like the BBB and Trustpilot aren’t as strong as State Farm’s industry ratings. However, that’s pretty common in the insurance world. Positive reviews typically focus on helpful customer service and a quick claims process. You’ll often find the opposite in negative reviews.

State Farm Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

State Farm insures all kinds of two- and three-wheeled bikes, including motor scooters, dirt bikes, classic motorcycles and minibikes. Most states require riders to carry a minimum amount of liability coverage. If you’re financing your motorcycle, many lenders require you to have comprehensive and collision coverage as well.

Here’s what the basic types of State Farm motorcycle insurance cover:

Additional Protections

Comprehensive and collision motorcycle insurance from State Farm feature the following additional types of protection:

• Protective gear: Th is pays up to $3,000 for damage to protective gear and equipment. Clothing, helmets and accessories that protect the rider’s body are all included.
• Roadside assistance: Towing, fuel and oil delivery, battery service and flat tire assistance are all included here. Roadside assistance coverage also includes up to one hour of repair labor at the site of your covered breakdown.
• Trip interruption: If you have a covered breakdown more than 50 miles from home, this benefit pays for food, lodging and other emergency expenses.

State Farm also offers optional uninsured motorcycle coverage. This pays for medical costs when you’re injured in an accident caused by a driver without adequate liability insurance.

State Farm Motorcycle Insurance Cost

State Farm doesn’t offer online quotes for its motorcycle coverage. The company instead urges customers to reach out to local agents who can offer a personalized quote. Your local State Farm agent can help you customize a motorcycle insurance plan that aligns with your state’s regulations and your unique needs.

Our team scoured Reddit for some information on State Farm motorcycle insurance costs. Although the company typically has competitive rates, it’s clear from riders on the platform that State Farm isn’t always the cheapest option.

We also reached out to State Farm for a comment on its motorcycle insurance rates. Here’s how the company responded:

“State Farm seeks to provide great value to our customers by providing competitive rates in auto, home, renters and motorcycles. When it specifically comes to motorcycle rates, State Farm works hard to offer customers the best combination of price, service, and protection. We absolutely value the relationships we have with our customers, and we strive to be the customer’s first and best choice in the products and services we provide.”

Factors That Affect Motorcycle Insurance Rates

As with auto insurance, there are several key factors that determine how much you pay for motorcycle insurance. Along with the amount of coverage and deductible you choose, the following variables play major roles in setting your motorcycle coverage cost:

• Motorcycle type: Sport bikes built for speed, cruiser bikes made for regular commuting and touring motorcycles designed for long road trips all come with different insurance costs. State Farm has a handy motorcycle insurance rating tool that can give you an idea how much your bike will cost to prote ct.
• Where you live: Motorcycle safety and insurance regulations vary by state. Motorcycle accident and theft rates where you live also have a significant impact on insurance premiums.
• Rider’s age: The more experience you have safely riding a motorcycle, the less you’ll pay for insurance. Just like car insurance, younger riders pay higher rates.
• Driving record: Traffic violations, both when riding your bike and when driving a car, will raise your motorcycle insurance rates.
• Safety training: Many insurance companies offer discounts to motorcycle riders who have taken safety courses within a specific window of time.

How To Save Money on Motorcycle Insurance

Comparing quotes from multiple providers is one of the best ways to cut down on motorcycle insurance costs, but it’s not your only option. Here are some other simple strategies for saving on motorcycle coverage:

• Focus on safety: Embracing motorcycle safety tips will help you keep your insurance costs in line. Using the right safety gear, regularly inspecting your bike and staying alert on the road are essential .
• Obey traffic laws: To keep coverage costs low, be sure to obey the speed limit and conform to any state safety equipment laws. These regulations may include daytime running lights and eye protection.
• Join a motorcycle club: Some insurers offer discounts to members of motorcycle organizations like the Harley Owners Group.

Is State Farm Motorcycle Insurance Worth It?

State Farm is one of our top-rated insurers of both car and motorcycle insurance. The company is definitely a good option if you’re looking to protect your bike. You may be able to find slightly cheaper coverage from other top insurers like Geico and Progressive, but State Farm offers local service that’s tough to match.

What To Look For in a Motorcycle Insurance Provider

There are quite a few providers that offer quality motorcycle insurance at competitive prices. Here are a few things you can look for to make the decision a bit easier:

• Discounts: You may qualify for more savings with certain insurers, so be sure to inquire about discounts every provider off ers.
• Bundling options: If you have the option to bundle a motorcycle policy with your homeowners insurance, renters or auto policy, you stand to save a lot of money.
• Additional benefits: Any extra benefits that come with a motorcycle insurance policy are worth considering. State Farm asserts itself here, with protective gear coverage, roadside assistance and trip interruption benefits included with full insurance policies.

State Farm Motorcycle Insurance: The Bottom Line

State Farm features complete coverage for all kinds of motorcycles. The company also has a knack for local, personalized service. One drawback is that it can be tough to get a handle on just how much a State Farm motorcycle insurance policy will cost. You’ll have to contact your local State Farm agent to get more clarity on pricing and specific coverage options.

Recommendations for Motorcycle Insurance

We always recommend that customers compare quotes from several insurance providers before they decide on an auto or motorcycle policy. Geico and Progressive are two names we suggest that you include in your search.

Geico: Editor’s Choice

Geico takes our Editor’s Choice award due to its combination of coverage options and affordable rates. The popular provider also offers a host of discounts that can bring premiums down even more. Geico also features accessories coverage that protects jackets, sidecars and saddlebags.

Read more: Geico motorcycle insurance review

Source: Geico

Progressive: Most Comprehensive Coverage

Progressive offers a wide variety of motorcycle coverage options for riders. Along with liability and full-coverage plans, Progressive features total loss protection, accessories coverage, a diminishing deductible option and enhanced injury protection. The company also offers a range of discounts to go with its competitive rates.

Read more: Progressive motorcycle insurance review

FAQ: State Farm Motorcycle Insurance

Below are some frequently asked questions about State Farm motorcycle insurance:

Does State Farm offer motorcycle insurance?

Yes, State Farm offers liability, comprehensive and collision coverage for motorcycle riders. The company also features optional uninsured motorist protection and perks like roadside assistance, trip interruption benefits and protective gear coverage.

How much does State Farm motorcycle insurance cost?

State Farm doesn’t offer quotes online. You’ll need to contact your local agent to get a clear idea of pricing and coverage options. State Farm offers competitive motorcycle insurance rates but isn’t typically the cheapest option, according to our research.

Where can I get State Farm motorcycle insurance quotes?

The best way to get a State Farm motorcycle insurance quote is to contact your local agent. That’s pretty easy to do, as the company has more than 19,000 agents spread across the country.

Our Methodology

Because consumers rely on us to provide objective and accurate information, we created a comprehensive rating system to formulate our rankings of the best motorcycle insurance companies. We collected data on dozens of motorcycle insurance providers to grade the companies on a wide range of ranking factors. The end result was an overall rating for each provider, with the insurers that scored the most points topping the list.

Here are the factors our ratings take into account:

• Cost: Motorcycle insurance quotes obtained through secret shopping and discount opportunities were both taken into consideration.
• Coverage: Companies that offer a variety of choices for insurance coverage are more likely to meet consumer needs.
• Reputation: Our research team considered market share, ratings from industry experts and years in business when giving this score.
• Availability: Auto insurance companies with greater state availability and few eligibility requirements scored highest in this category.
• Customer Experience: This score is based on volume of complaints reported by the NAIC and customer satisfaction ratings. We also considered the responsiveness, friendliness and helpfulness of each motorcycle insurance company’s customer service team based on our own shopper analysis.

*Data accurate at time of publication.