Do you love the feeling of riding down the road on your motorcycle with the wind blowing through your hair and miles of open road ahead? You probably spend as much free time as possible riding your bike. But before you get your motor running and head out on the highway, it's important to get motorcycle insurance. If you follow a few simple steps, you can find motorcycle coverage that suits your needs and your budget.
What to Consider When Comparing Motorcycle Insurance Quotes
Shopping around for quotes can be a little confusing. How do you compare different insurance policies in an objective light? Although price is always important, never select an insurance provider based on cost alone. It's important to look for a policy that provides good value for your money. Sign up with a company that offers well-rounded coverage for a reasonable price.
What Can I Do to Reduce My Motorcycle Insurance Premium?
When shopping for coverage, it's important to know that there are steps you can take to reduce your motorcycle insurance premium. Increasing your deductible, taking advantage of available discounts and driving responsibly can help save you money on your motorcycle insurance.
Raise Your Deductible
As with most insurance policies, applying for a higher deductible will reduce your motorcycle insurance premium. Though a higher deductible means you'll be paying up to that amount should you file a claim, it also means you can put the money you'll be saving in premium dollars into an interest-earning account, saving money in the long run.
Complete a Motorcycle Training Course
You can usually get a discount of 10 to 15% if you graduate from a training course. This is a simple and effective way to cut insurance costs. For younger riders under the age of 25, or for those who have been in an accident, taking a course such as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation rider course can help reduce your premium.
Find Savings within Your Motorcycle Insurance Policy
A clean driving record with no violations is another way to ensure reduced premiums. Please note that your driving record applies to all vehicles. So if you received traffic violations while driving your car, this will adversely impact your motorcycle insurance premium. If your bike isn't your primary mode of transportation, capping your mileage can earn you a low-mileage discount.
Some insurance companies offer discounts if you insure more than one bike with them. In addition, you may be able to save money if you insure your bike with the same company that provides your auto insurance. Experienced riders are often awarded with lower premiums, and if you belong to a motorcycle association, you may be eligible for a premium discount.
Parking Your Bike in a Garage Could Save You on Motorcycle Insurance
Motorcycles are often targets for vandalism, and some insurance policies offer discounts if you keep your bike parked in a garage or storage unit. Adding an alarm or some other type of anti-theft device can result in premium savings as well.
It's always a good idea to do some comparison shopping as well. Be sure to get quotes from multiple carriers, as the first quote you receive isn't always the best one. If you're a savvy consumer and insurance providers view you as a low risk customer, you can find the motorcycle insurance you want at a price you can afford.