Kievgid

When it’s time to buy motorcycle insurance, you can’t go wrong considering the following four factors before you shop. Insurance companies pretty much all think alike. And these are the risk factors that they always consider when they figure your rates.

1. Driver age and experience — your age and driving experience is already set. But be aware that younger and less experienced drivers inevitably pay more for their insurance. Driving experience includes your accident and claims records. Fewer accidents and fewer claims mean lower insurance costs. This is one area you do have control over as time goes on.

Even so, younger riders as well as older can often reduce their rates by simply taking a safe driver class. Drivers of all ages will get significant rate advantages the longer their driving record is free of accidents and claims.

2. Motorcycle age and cost — Since it costs the insurance company more to replace newer more expensive bikes, it naturally costs more in insurance premiums to own one. Bike modifications can also significantly increase replacement and insurance costs. Don’t do them unless you’re willing to pay.

First-time biker’s and younger bikers might consider buying an older bike with a smaller engine. Not only will the cost of insurance go down because of the lower replacement cost, but accident risk also decreases with smaller and less powerful engines. If you buy a souped-up racing bike expect the insurance company to charge you souped-up rates.

3. Bike security and storage — The more secure your storage area the more likely you’ll get a good discount on insurance since bike theft becomes less of a risk. If you have a locked garage to store the bike in, be sure to tell your insurance company.

Bike security devices when you’re out of the road can also make a difference with your insurance rates. For less than $100 you can buy and install a bike immobilizer that makes it more difficult for people to take your bike and thus reduces the cost of theft coverage.

4. Driver and passenger safety — these days most states require a helmet. Frankly you’re nuts if you don’t wear one, and insurance companies will charge you much more, Check with your company on possible discounts for the use of other basic safety equipment.

Insuring extra passengers is expensive. So you can save money if you ride solo, or only carry passengers infrequently. Make sure your passengers have the same coverage as you and also wear safety equipment. The majority of lawsuits for biker accidents actually come from their passengers.

If you have already purchased your bike some of the above factors are already set. But eventually you may buy another bike and over time your driving record will also change. Keep the above insurance secrets in mind, because a little common sense can go a long way to reducing your insurance bill.