Motorcycle insurance is essential, but there are several legal and practical ways to reduce your premiums without compromising coverage. Understanding these strategies can help you save hundreds of dollars per year.
The type of bike you own has a direct impact on your insurance on a motorcycle cost.
Opt for moderate or lower-powered bikes: Smaller engines or cruisers are cheaper to insure than high-performance sportbikes.
Consider bike value: Expensive or customized bikes increase comprehensive and collision costs.
Electric bikes: While trendy, some electric motorcycles may cost more due to battery replacement; consider coverage costs before buying.
Tip: If lowering insurance is a priority, research models with lower premiums before purchasing.
Insurance companies reward riders who demonstrate safe habits.
Certified safety courses, like those offered by the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF), can reduce premiums by 5–20%.
Courses improve your riding skills, which insurers see as reduced risk for accidents.
Legal and beneficial: You become a safer rider, and insurance companies may require proof of completion for the discount.
Your deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket in the event of a claim.
Choosing a higher deductible lowers your monthly or annual premium.
Example: Raising your collision deductible from $250 to $1,000 can reduce your premium by 10–30%.
Caution: Only do this if you can afford the higher deductible in case of an accident.
Many insurers offer multi-policy discounts:
Combine motorcycle insurance with auto, home, or renters insurance.
Discounts can range from 5–25% depending on the provider.
Bundling is legal and a standard way to save money while keeping all insurance under one roof.
Reducing risk is a surefire way to lower premiums legally.
Anti-theft devices like GPS trackers, alarms, or disc locks reduce theft risk.
Safety features like ABS brakes and traction control make accidents less likely.
Many insurers provide discounts for bikes with approved safety technology.
Your driving and riding history heavily influences insurance on a motorcycle cost.
Avoid speeding tickets, DUIs, and reckless driving.
Insurers reward years of accident-free riding with lower premiums.
Keeping a clean record is not only legal but one of the most effective ways to save on insurance.
Insurers often offer low-mileage discounts.
If you ride occasionally or seasonally rather than daily, report your estimated annual mileage.
Fewer miles reduce your exposure to accidents, which can significantly reduce premiums.
Insurance rates vary widely between companies.
Get multiple quotes every year.
Online comparison tools make it easy to see who offers the best price for the same coverage.
This is completely legal and often results in substantial savings without changing your coverage.
If your bike is older or less valuable, liability-only insurance may be enough.
Covers injury or damage to others but not your own bike.
Much cheaper than full coverage.
Note: Only use this if you can handle repair costs yourself. It’s legal and recognized by all insurers.
Most insurers offer a variety of legal discounts:
Good student discount for riders under 25 with strong academic performance.
Multi-bike discount if you own more than one motorcycle.
Membership discounts through motorcycle clubs or professional organizations.
Always ask your provider about available discounts—they are fully legal and often overlooked.
Strategy
Potential Savings
Notes
Choose a moderate bike
Medium
Smaller engine = lower premiums
Safety course completion
5–20%
MSF or equivalent certified courses
Higher deductible
10–30%
Only if you can afford out-of-pocket
Bundle policies
5–25%
Auto, home, or renters insurance
Anti-theft devices & safety features
5–15%
GPS trackers, ABS brakes, alarms
Maintain clean riding record
High
Avoid tickets and accidents
Limit mileage
5–15%
Less exposure to accidents
Shop around
Varies
Compare quotes annually
Liability-only coverage
High
Suitable for older/low-value bikes
Discounts
Varies
Good student, multi-bike, club memberships
Lowering the insurance on a motorcycle cost legally requires a combination of smart bike choices, responsible riding, and using available discounts. By being proactive—completing safety courses, bundling policies, maintaining a clean record, and installing security features—you can save hundreds of dollars per year while staying fully compliant with the law.