There are many outlets from which to buy insurance, online, telephone, direct to one insurance company or through a broker. Different companies offer better deals to certain types of rider. Some give preferential rates to older experienced riders, some are more competitive for the novice rider so it is often a case of shopping around for quotes. the Internet is a good place to start, but if you are unsure about the types of options available, then it may be a good idea to speak to a broker.
In all cases, there is normally 3 main types of cover
Third party only- This covers just your legal liability for injuring other people or damaging their property. This is the insurance you must have by law.
Third party fire and theft- In addition to the above, this provides cover for loss or damage to your bike by thieves or fire.
Comprehensive- This provides the cover above plus protection against accidental damage to your vehicle.
In most cases, the premium you pay for your cover can be reuced by the following factors
Introductory discount
No claims discount
Voluntary excesses ( you are liable for a set amount of the cost of any claim)
Discounts for secured parking overnight
Specialist cover for older motorcycles
To provide you with an accurate quotation for your bike, an insurance company will the following information. Having this to hand will save time:
Vehicle details - make, model, registration, age, value, capacity (cc), will it be garaged?
Driver details - date of birth etc and driving history i.e. previous accidents and convictions.
No claims bonus - entitlement showing the name of your current insurer and policy number.
What kind of cover you will want - comprehensive or third party fire and theft.
What the vehicle will be used for - domestic or business
What sort of excess would you be prepared to pay - i.e. the amount you would wish to pay towards a claim
Any restrictions - to who can drive the vehicle or for what purpose.
Be in posession of a valid certificate or cover note before riding your bike on the road, failure to maintain up to date insurance may result in a conviction, which could be very serious in the event of an accident.
