What is motorcycle collision insurance?

Motorcycle collision coverage protects your bike against damage sustained in a collision with another vehicle or object, such as a fence, tree, or guardrail, regardless of fault. If you finance or lease your motorcycle, your lender will typically require motorcycle collision coverage.

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Is motorcycle collision insurance required?

State insurance laws don't require motorcycle collision coverage. Most lenders require collision coverage as part of the terms of your lease or loan. However, if you own your motorcycle outright, collision coverage is optional. Learn more about motorcycle insurance requirements by state.

How does motorcycle collision coverage work?

Motorcycle collision coverage covers damage to your bike, regardless of fault, from the following incidents:

Hitting an object (fire hydrant, road sign, tree, etc.)
Roadbed collision (sometimes referred to as dropping your bike)
Hit-and-run damage, including parking lots
Collisions with other vehicles, even if they're parked

If your bike is damaged beyond repair in a covered incident, your motorcycle insurer will typically pay you the fair market value of your bike, minus your policy's deductible.

Example:Suppose you hit another vehicle and your motorcycle is totaled. Regardless of which driver is at fault, with collision coverage on your policy, your motorcycle insurer may cover the fair market value of your motorcycle minus your deductible. If your bike is worth $25,000 and your policy's collision deductible is $500, your insurer may pay you $24,500.

Is there a deductible for motorcycle collision coverage?

Yes, you get to choose your deductible amount when you purchase the policy. The higher the deductible you choose, the lower your cost for motorcycle collision coverage.

What's not covered by motorcycle collision insurance?

Collision coverage can't be used for medical expenses and typically won't cover incidents out of your control, including:

Fire
Theft
Vandalism
Hitting an animal
Glass breakage
Weather-related damage

Motorcycle comprehensive coverage can cover such incidents.

Does motorcycle collision insurance cover custom motorcycle parts?

While motorcycle collision insurance won't typically cover customizations, motorcycle accessory coverage can pay for damage to upgrades you've made to your bike and equipment, including chrome pieces, electronics, handlebars, and custom paint and wheels, up to the coverage limit.

Is motorcycle collision insurance worth it?

The decision to purchase motorcycle collision coverage depends on your risk tolerance and ability to pay for repairs (or a new motorcycle) out of pocket. Consider if you'd rather pay less for insurance each month or be protected against a sudden expense if your bike is damaged. Also, consider your motorcycle's value. The more the motorcycle is worth, the more you stand to lose if your bike is involved in a collision.

Expensive motorcycles may cost more to fix, so be realistic about what repairs you could afford to pay for out of pocket. Even if the bike is totaled, collision coverage may help you pay off the rest of your loan. Learn more about motorcycle insurance coverages.