Motorcycle Insurance

Motorcycle insurance can be arranged at comprehensive, third party fire and theft or third party only levels. Comprehensive cover generally includes accidental damage to your own motorcycle alongside liability for injury or damage to others, plus protection against theft or fire. Third party options provide more limited protection. The level available depends on the insurer selected and individual eligibility criteria at quotation stage.

Modified motorcycles can be insured provided all alterations are declared in full. This includes engine upgrades, exhaust systems, suspension changes, cosmetic customisation or performance tuning. Each modification is assessed individually by the insurer, and pricing reflects the overall specification of the bike. Failure to disclose changes may affect claims or policy validity, subject to underwriting review.

High performance motorcycles are often rated differently due to engine capacity, acceleration and historical claims data. However, cost is not determined by power alone. Insurers consider rider experience, storage arrangements, mileage, security devices and location when calculating premiums. Each quotation is based on the combined rider and vehicle profile rather than engine size in isolation.

Motorcycle insurance premiums are calculated using a range of rider and vehicle risk indicators. These typically include age, licence category, years of riding experience, claims history, postcode, annual mileage and the motorcycle’s make and model. Additional factors such as garaging, approved security equipment and voluntary excess selection may influence the final premium, depending on insurer methodology.

Pillion liability cover is not automatically included on every motorcycle policy and must be confirmed at quotation stage. If you intend to carry a passenger, this should be declared so the insurer can confirm whether cover is available. Eligibility depends on licence status and underwriting criteria. Policy documentation should always be reviewed before riding with a pillion passenger.

Breakdown assistance is usually offered as an optional extension rather than standard inclusion. Cover levels may range from roadside assistance to recovery and home start, depending on the provider selected. Larger capacity or specialist motorcycles may require tailored recovery arrangements. Availability and scope of cover depend on the insurer and the specific policy chosen.

Motorcycles can be insured for commuting, but this must be declared accurately when arranging cover. Commuting generally refers to travel between home and a regular place of work. Usage classification affects how the insurer rates the policy and may influence pricing. Failure to declare commuting use could affect a future claim, subject to policy terms.

If you sell, replace or upgrade your motorcycle during the policy period, the insurer must be notified before riding the new bike. The policy can usually be amended, subject to underwriting approval. Premiums are recalculated based on the new motorcycle’s value, power output and specification. Any change remains subject to insurer acceptance.

Motorcycle insurance may be available for younger or newly qualified riders, subject to insurer criteria. Premiums are typically influenced by limited riding experience and statistical claims data. Pricing depends on licence type, engine capacity, declared mileage and storage arrangements. Selecting an appropriate motorcycle and installing approved security devices may influence the quotation outcome.

Performance Direct arranges motorcycle cover for riders who require individual assessment of their machine and riding profile. This may include owners of higher capacity, modified or less common motorcycles where specification and usage vary from standard commuter models. Quotations are based on declared riding experience, storage arrangements and the characteristics of the bike, subject to insurer underwriting criteria.