Motorcycle insurance covers liability for injuries and damage you cause while riding, plus optional coverage for your own bike, medical payments, and uninsured motorist protection. Most states require all registered motorcycles to carry minimum liability coverage - and riders face significantly higher injury risk than car drivers, making adequate coverage essential.
We're not just selling insurance. We're here to make sure you understand your options, feel confident in your coverage, and have someone in your corner when it matters most.
Who needs motorcycle insurance?
If you ride a motorcycle, you are legally required to carry liability insurance in virtually every state. Riders know the joy of scenic routes through rolling hills and along waterways - but they also know the risks. Helmet laws vary by state - some require helmets for all riders, while others only require them for younger riders or permit holders. Deer crossings are common on rural roads, particularly in fall and early spring. And other drivers failing to see motorcycles remains the number-one cause of motorcycle accidents. With top-rated carriers, we work with riders from sport bike enthusiasts to Harley touring riders to custom cruiser owners, finding coverage that fits how you actually ride. Whether you ride year-round or just during the warmer months, we can structure a policy that fits your season and budget.
What does motorcycle insurance cover?
- Bodily injury liability - pays for others' injuries when you are at fault
- Property damage liability - pays for damage to others' vehicles and property
- Collision - covers damage to your bike from an accident with another vehicle or object
- Comprehensive - covers theft, vandalism, fire, weather damage, and animal strikes
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist - protects you when the other driver has no or insufficient insurance
- Medical payments or PIP - covers your own medical bills after an accident
- Custom parts and equipment coverage - covers aftermarket add-ons beyond factory equipment
- Accessory coverage - helmets, riding gear, and safety equipment
- Roadside assistance and towing
What motorcycle insurance does NOT cover
- Racing, stunting, or competitive events - excluded by all standard policies
- Wear and tear, mechanical breakdown, and maintenance
- Passengers unless your policy includes guest passenger liability
- Custom parts and accessories above your policy's stated limit unless specifically endorsed
- Riding off-road on a street-registered motorcycle (some carriers exclude this)
- Commercial use - delivery, courier, or business use without a commercial endorsement
What does motorcycle insurance cost?
Motorcycle insurance typically ranges from about $300 to $1,500 per year, depending heavily on your bike type, riding experience, and coverage level. Sport bikes and supersports cost significantly more to insure than cruisers and touring bikes due to higher accident frequency and severity. Seasonal storage discounts can reduce your premium if you do not ride during winter months. Completing a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course can earn a 5–10% discount with most carriers. Because motorcycle rates vary dramatically between carriers, shopping across our carriers often yields significant savings.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Most states require liability insurance for all registered motorcycles regardless of how often you ride. Insurance must be in force at all times the motorcycle is registered, not just when you are on the road. If you ride seasonally, some carriers offer lay-up periods where you maintain comprehensive coverage (for theft and weather damage in storage) but drop collision and liability during months you are not riding, saving 20–40% annually.
Standard motorcycle policies include limited coverage for custom parts and equipment - typically $1,000–$3,000 above factory specs. If you have invested in custom exhaust, saddlebags, lighting, windshield, or performance upgrades, you need to add a custom parts endorsement to cover their full value. Provide us with a list of modifications and their cost, and we will make sure they are covered. Without this endorsement, your claim payout after a total loss will only reflect the bike's stock value.
No. Auto insurance policies specifically exclude motorcycles. You need a separate motorcycle insurance policy with its own liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage. However, bundling your motorcycle and auto policies with the same carrier often earns a multi-vehicle or multi-policy discount of 5–15%. Some carriers also offer a package discount if you insure your home with them as well.
Your motorcycle insurance generally follows the bike, not the rider - so your policy would be the primary coverage if a permissive user (someone you gave permission to ride) has an accident. Your deductible applies, any claim goes on your record, and if the damages exceed your limits, your friend's insurance may provide secondary coverage. Be cautious about lending your bike, because a claim from a permissive user affects your premium and claims history.
Helmet laws vary by state - some require helmets for all riders, others only for riders under a certain age or those with a permit. Regardless of your state's law, it is worth noting that carriers generally do not offer helmet-use discounts - but not wearing a helmet can significantly increase the severity and cost of injuries, which can affect future policy availability and pricing. Always check your state's specific helmet requirements for both riders and passengers.
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Related coverage to consider
- Auto Insurance - Covers liability for injuries and property damage you cause, plus optional collision, comprehensive, and uninsured motorist protection.
- Umbrella Insurance - Adds an extra layer of liability protection above your home and auto policy limits.
- Classic Car Insurance - Insures collector, antique, and classic vehicles at an agreed value rather than depreciated actual cash value.
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Reviewed by
Sheilia Royal, Agency Principal / Licensed Agent
Licensed in KY, IN & TN | 20 years experience | Last reviewed: March 2026