Best motorcycle insurance Companies
Introduction
Choosing the right motorcycle insurance is crucial for protecting both your bike and your financial well-being. Unlike auto insurance, motorcycle coverage comes with unique considerations—from seasonal riding patterns to specialized equipment coverage—making it essential to find a provider that truly understands the needs of motorcycle enthusiasts.
This comprehensive comparison examines the leading motorcycle insurance companies, analyzing their coverage options, customer service quality, claim handling processes, and specialized features for riders. Whether you’re a weekend cruiser, daily commuter, or track day enthusiast, the right insurance policy can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major financial setback.
Our Top Picks at a Glance:
- Best Overall: Progressive – Comprehensive coverage with rider-friendly features
- Best for Custom Bikes: Foremost Insurance Group – Specialized custom and classic motorcycle coverage
- Best Customer Service: GEICO – Consistently high satisfaction ratings
- Best for Multiple Bikes: Dairyland Insurance – Excellent multi-bike discounts
- Best for New Riders: State Farm – Strong educational resources and support
Quick Comparison Overview
| Company | Best For | Key Strength | Coverage Options | Customer Service |
|———|———-|————–|——————|——————|
| Progressive | Overall value | Comprehensive features | Excellent | Good |
| GEICO | Customer service | Claims handling | Very Good | Excellent |
| State Farm | New riders | Educational support | Good | Very Good |
| Dairyland | Multiple bikes | Multi-bike discounts | Very Good | Good |
| Foremost | Custom/Classic bikes | Specialized coverage | Excellent | Good |
| Allstate | Bundle savings | Multi-policy discounts | Good | Good |
Key Differentiators:
- Coverage breadth: Progressive and Foremost offer the most comprehensive specialty options
- Customer experience: GEICO and State Farm lead in satisfaction ratings
- Pricing flexibility: Dairyland and Progressive provide the most discount opportunities
- Specialized needs: Foremost excels for custom bikes, while State Farm supports new riders
Detailed Comparison
Progressive Motorcycle Insurance
Progressive stands out as the most comprehensive motorcycle insurance provider, offering an extensive range of coverage options specifically designed for riders. Their Total Loss Coverage ensures you receive the original purchase price of your bike if it’s totaled within the first model year, while their Custom Parts and Equipment coverage protects aftermarket modifications up to $30,000.
The company’s Roadside Assistance program includes motorcycle-specific services like flat tire assistance, towing to a motorcycle dealer, and coverage for trips over 100 miles from home. Progressive’s mobile app allows for easy policy management and quick claims filing with photo uploads, making it particularly convenient for riders on the go.
Their underwriting approach considers motorcycle safety course completion and riding experience, often resulting in better rates for responsible riders. Progressive also offers flexible payment options and lay-up coverage for seasonal riders who store their bikes during winter months.
GEICO Motorcycle Insurance
GEICO has built a strong reputation for exceptional customer service and efficient claims processing. Their motorcycle insurance division maintains the same high standards, with 24/7 claims reporting and a network of preferred repair shops that specialize in motorcycle repairs.
The company offers all standard coverage types plus several rider-specific options, including trip interruption coverage and safety apparel coverage for protective gear. GEICO’s online platform is particularly user-friendly, allowing customers to easily adjust coverage limits, add or remove bikes, and access policy documents.
GEICO’s claims satisfaction ratings consistently rank among the highest in the industry, with many customers praising their fair settlement practices and knowledgeable adjusters who understand motorcycle values and repair costs.
State Farm
State Farm excels in supporting new and inexperienced riders through comprehensive educational resources and patient customer service. Their local agent network provides personalized guidance, helping riders understand coverage options and make informed decisions about their insurance needs.
The company offers competitive rates for riders who complete approved safety courses and maintains good driving records. State Farm’s Steer Clear program for young riders includes motorcycle-specific components, potentially leading to significant discounts over time.
Their claims process emphasizes personal attention, with local agents often involved in major claim resolution. State Farm also provides excellent bundling opportunities for customers who have multiple insurance needs beyond motorcycles.
Dairyland Insurance
Dairyland specializes exclusively in motorcycle and recreational vehicle insurance, bringing deep industry expertise to their coverage offerings. Their multi-bike discounts are among the most generous in the industry, making them ideal for riders with multiple motorcycles or households with several riders.
The company offers flexible coverage options, including agreed value coverage for classic and custom bikes, and their underwriting guidelines are often more lenient for riders with previous violations or claims. Dairyland’s seasonal lay-up options are comprehensive, allowing riders to maintain continuous coverage while reducing costs during storage periods.
Their customer service representatives are typically motorcyclists themselves, providing knowledgeable assistance and understanding of rider needs. Dairyland also offers financing options for annual premiums, helping riders manage cash flow.
Foremost Insurance Group
Foremost has carved out a niche as the premier insurer for custom, classic, and high-value motorcycles. Their agreed value coverage ensures that unique or modified bikes receive appropriate compensation in the event of a total loss, rather than being subject to standard depreciation calculations.
The company’s underwriters have specialized knowledge of motorcycle values and aftermarket parts, making them particularly skilled at properly insuring custom builds and rare motorcycles. Foremost also offers extensive coverage for motorcycle trailers and accessories, important for riders who travel to events or track days.
Their claims adjusters are trained specifically in motorcycle evaluation and often work with specialized repair facilities that understand custom work and rare parts sourcing.
Allstate
Allstate provides solid motorcycle insurance coverage with excellent bundling opportunities for customers who carry multiple insurance policies. Their Drivewise program, while primarily designed for cars, can sometimes provide discounts for motorcycle policies within bundled accounts.
The company offers standard motorcycle coverage options plus some unique features like new motorcycle replacement coverage and custom equipment coverage. Allstate’s agent network provides local service, and their mobile app includes useful features for policy management.
Their claims process is streamlined, though some riders report that adjusters may have less specialized motorcycle knowledge compared to companies that focus more heavily on motorcycle insurance.
Pricing Overview
Motorcycle insurance costs vary significantly based on multiple factors, with typical annual premiums ranging from $300 to $2,000 for most riders. However, understanding the factors that influence pricing can help you find better rates and make informed decisions about coverage levels.
Primary Pricing Factors:
- Motorcycle type and engine size: Sport bikes typically cost more to insure than cruisers or touring bikes
- Rider age and experience: Younger riders and those with less experience generally pay higher premiums
- Location: Urban areas with higher theft rates and accident frequency cost more
- Coverage levels: Higher liability limits and comprehensive coverage increase premiums
- Annual mileage: Bikes used for daily commuting cost more than occasional recreational use
Cost-Saving Opportunities:
Most insurers offer significant discounts for safety course completion (typically 10-20% off), multi-bike policies, bundling with other insurance types, and good driving records. Anti-theft devices, garage storage, and membership in motorcycle organizations can also reduce premiums.
Value Considerations:
While price is important, the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Consider claim handling reputation, customer service quality, and coverage breadth when evaluating options. A slightly higher premium may be worthwhile for significantly better service or more comprehensive protection.
Pros and Cons
Progressive
Pros:
- Most comprehensive coverage options available
- Excellent specialized features for riders
- Strong online and mobile platform
- Competitive rates with numerous discounts
Cons:
- Customer service can be inconsistent
- Claims process may be slower during peak season
- Some coverage options increase complexity
GEICO
Pros:
- Outstanding customer service and claims handling
- User-friendly online platform
- Competitive rates for clean driving records
- 24/7 support availability
Cons:
- Fewer specialized motorcycle coverage options
- Limited availability in some states
- May not be competitive for high-risk riders
State Farm
Pros:
- Excellent support for new riders
- Strong local agent network
- Good bundling discounts
- Solid financial stability
Cons:
- Rates can be higher for sport bikes
- Coverage options less comprehensive than specialists
- Agent availability varies by location
Dairyland
Pros:
- Best multi-bike discounts available
- Motorcycle-focused customer service
- Flexible underwriting for challenging cases
- Excellent lay-up coverage options
Cons:
- Limited online platform functionality
- Smaller network of preferred repair shops
- May not offer best rates for single-bike policies
Foremost
Pros:
- Unmatched custom and classic bike expertise
- Agreed value coverage for unique motorcycles
- Specialized claims adjusters
- Comprehensive accessory coverage
Cons:
- Can be expensive for standard motorcycles
- Limited availability in some areas
- Stricter underwriting for some coverage types
Allstate
Pros:
- Excellent bundling opportunities
- Strong local agent support
- Good financial stability
- Solid standard coverage options
Cons:
- Limited motorcycle-specific features
- Can be expensive compared to specialists
- Claims adjusters may lack motorcycle expertise
How to Choose
Selecting the best motorcycle insurance requires careful consideration of your specific needs, riding habits, and financial priorities. Start by assessing your motorcycle’s value and any custom modifications, as this will influence your coverage requirements significantly.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
- Do you ride year-round or seasonally?
- Is your motorcycle stock or heavily modified?
- How many miles do you ride annually?
- Do you participate in track days or motorcycle events?
- What’s your experience level and riding history?
- Do you need coverage for accessories and gear?
Matching Needs to Providers:
For new riders, prioritize companies with strong educational resources and patient customer service like State Farm or GEICO. Experienced riders with custom bikes should focus on specialists like Foremost or Dairyland who understand unique equipment values.
Multiple bike owners will find the best value with Dairyland’s multi-bike discounts, while riders seeking maximum coverage options should consider Progressive’s comprehensive offerings.
Coverage Priorities:
Don’t compromise on liability coverage—this protects your assets if you cause injury or property damage. For newer or valuable bikes, comprehensive and collision coverage are typically worthwhile. Custom equipment coverage becomes essential if you’ve invested in aftermarket parts or accessories.
How to Switch/Get Started
Switching motorcycle insurance or purchasing your first policy involves several important steps to ensure continuous coverage and optimal protection. The process typically takes 30-45 minutes online or by phone, but proper preparation can streamline the experience significantly.
Before You Start:
Gather essential information including your motorcycle’s VIN, current odometer reading, storage location, and any safety course certificates. If switching providers, have your current policy details available to ensure you’re making accurate comparisons.
Shopping Process:
Request quotes from at least three different insurers, ensuring you’re comparing identical coverage levels. Pay attention to deductibles, coverage limits, and any restrictions that might apply to your specific situation or riding habits.
Timing Your Switch:
Most insurers allow you to schedule coverage to begin on any date, but avoid gaps in coverage as they can result in penalties and increased future rates. If you’re financing your motorcycle, notify your lender about the insurance change to update their records.
Final Steps:
Once you’ve selected a provider, complete the application process and arrange payment. Download your insurance card immediately and store it securely with your motorcycle documents. Cancel your previous coverage only after confirming your new policy is active.
FAQ
Q: How does motorcycle insurance differ from car insurance?
Motorcycle insurance includes specialized coverage options like custom equipment protection, seasonal lay-up coverage, and accessory coverage that aren’t available with auto policies. Rates are calculated differently, considering factors like engine size, bike type, and riding season length.
Q: Is Progressive or GEICO better for motorcycle insurance?
Progressive offers more comprehensive coverage options and motorcycle-specific features, making it better for riders wanting maximum protection. GEICO excels in customer service and claims handling, making it ideal for riders prioritizing service quality over coverage breadth.
Q: Should I choose full coverage or liability-only for my motorcycle?
Full coverage (including comprehensive and collision) is recommended for newer bikes, financed motorcycles, or any bike you can’t afford to replace. Liability-only might be appropriate for older, low-value bikes, but consider that it won’t cover theft or damage to your motorcycle.
Q: How much can I save with motorcycle safety course completion?
Most insurers offer 10-20% discounts for approved motorcycle safety course completion, with some providing discounts for up to three years. The discount often exceeds the course cost, making it financially beneficial beyond the safety benefits.
Q: What’s the difference between agreed value and actual cash value coverage?
Agreed value coverage pays a predetermined amount if your motorcycle is totaled, regardless of depreciation. Actual cash value pays the motorcycle’s current market value minus depreciation. Agreed value is better for custom, classic, or rapidly depreciating bikes.
Q: Can I get motorcycle insurance with a bad driving record?
Yes, though options may be limited and rates higher. Dairyland Insurance is known for more flexible underwriting, while some standard insurers may decline coverage. Focus on companies that specialize in high-risk coverage or consider working with an independent agent.
Conclusion
Choosing the best motorcycle insurance requires balancing coverage needs, budget constraints, and service preferences. Progressive emerges as the best overall choice for most riders, offering comprehensive coverage options and competitive rates. However, GEICO’s superior customer service, Foremost’s custom bike expertise, or Dairyland’s multi-bike discounts might better serve specific needs.
The key to finding optimal coverage lies in understanding your unique requirements and comparing options based on both price and value. Consider factors beyond premium cost, including claims handling reputation, customer service quality, and coverage comprehensiveness.
Ready to find your perfect motorcycle insurance match? Use YouCompare.com’s independent comparison tools to evaluate options side-by-side and discover the best rates from top-rated providers. Our unbiased reviews and comprehensive comparison platform help thousands of consumers make smarter insurance choices every day. Compare quotes now and ride with confidence, knowing you’ve found the coverage that best protects your motorcycle and your financial future.
