Shopping for Motorcycle Insurance? Things You Should Know

There’s something special about being a motorcycle rider. Unless you’ve experienced the thrill of hitting the road with nothing between you and the elements but a helmet and safety gear, you can’t begin to understand its appeal. While nay-sayers might point out how it’s an unsafe pastime, your licence, experience and training mean you only take calculated risks — and you also know that being a motorcycle rider in South Africa means that motorcycle insurance is a must.

With fuel prices constantly rising and traffic jams an ever-present reality in South Africa, it’s no surprise that bikes are becoming a more popular mode of transport in urban areas. Unfortunately, it also means that bike riders accounted for almost a third of all fatal crashes globally in 2016 with the highest accident rates coming from Africa. You must make yourself as safe as possible.

If you’ve recently bought your own motorcycle or upgraded to a new model, you’ll be wanting to protect this investment. Not only will bike insurance help get you back on the road after an accident or breakdown, but it will also give your loved ones peace of mind that you’re protected while riding your bike. 

What are the different types of bike insurance?

If you take a look at most of the motorcycle insurance options on the market, you’ll realise that they usually fall into one of three categories:

1. Third-Party Bike Insurance

2. Third-Party, Fire and Theft Bike Insurance

3. Comprehensive Bike Insurance

Option 1 (third-party bike insurance) offers entry-level coverage and will cover damage or injury to another person or their bike should you be involved in an accident with them. Option 2 builds on option 1, adding coverage for damage or destruction to your bike in the event of fire or theft. Option 3 will cover you for damages to your bike if you're at fault, in addition to third-party, fire and theft protection.

Although options 1 and 2 are cheaper than option 3, they do not give you the complete coverage you need, particularly if you’re spending a lot of time on your bike. That’s why we recommend option 3: Comprehensive Bike Insurance

How much does motorbike insurance cost?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. As mentioned above, your selection of the type of insurance you choose will impact how much you pay. However, other factors are also going to have an impact on what your insurance finally costs you. As with car insurance, insurers look at the overall risk factors present according to a person’s demographics. It means you can expect to pay more for insurance if you’re a young or inexperienced rider. Your past behaviour counts too, as a history of accidents or making multiple insurance claims will also count against you.  

How can you reduce the cost of your motorcycle premium costs?

While you might not be in control of your risk factors and their impact on your premiums, there are other ways you can ensure that you pay less for your motorcycle insurance every month. Here are some ideas:

1. Increase your excess

If monthly cash flow is an issue, you can keep your wallet fuller by increasing your excess. This means that you’ll have to make a higher co-payment should you make a claim, however, your monthly payments will be less. 

2. Respect your limits 

According to Arrive Alive, half of all road accidents that happen on South Africa’s roads involve alcohol. While not every accident will end in death or major damage thankfully, every claim you make can increase your risk and keep you from enjoying lower premiums. If you want to enjoy a beer or two at your local pub during the next rugby match, rather pay a little extra for a taxi or Uber and never risk driving under the influence of alcohol.

3. Learn defensive driving 

While you can control your behaviour on the road, negotiating with other drivers on South Africa’s roads can make you feel like you’re auditioning for the next Mad Max movie! Investing in defensive driving techniques can help you prevent an accident and get more enjoyment out of your time on the road. The Motorcycle Safety Institute of South Africa is an independent non-government organisation. You can visit their website to find a trainer in your area.

4. Wear the right gear 

You might think that safety helmets and protective clothing are unnecessary, but even our earliest ancestors recognised the importance of gearing up. Ancient Greeks fashioned helmets out of boar tusks to protect their heads during battle! Investing in the right gear will free you up to focus on your biking experience instead of worrying about getting hurt in an accident. 

5. Maintain your bike

Whether you haul your bike out every other holiday or use it on a daily basis, it will require as much care and attention as your car. Pay attention to service intervals and ensure you make any needed repairs before they develop into something more serious.

Get a motorcycle insurance quotation 

Now that you know more about motorbike insurance and what influences its costs, you’re probably ready to take the next step and get a motorcycle insurance quotation. Auto & General can assist you, whether you need off-road motorcycle insurance or standard comprehensive bike insurance. For more information, request a quote today.