
Owning a motorcycle means freedom, adrenaline, and hitting the open road—but it also comes with serious responsibility. Motorcycle insurance is essential to protect yourself, your bike, and your finances, but many riders unknowingly make mistakes that leave them underinsured or paying more than they should.
Whether you're a first-time rider or a seasoned motorcyclist, this guide will walk you through five common motorcycle insurance mistakes to avoid—so you can ride with confidence, not concern.
1. Choosing the Cheapest Policy Without Understanding Coverage
It’s tempting to go with the lowest premium, but cheap doesn’t always mean smart. Many budget policies only offer bare-minimum liability coverage, which won’t protect you or your motorcycle in the event of an accident you cause.
What You Risk:
- No coverage for your own injuries (without medical payments or personal injury protection)
- No coverage for your bike’s repairs (without collision or comprehensive)
- Insufficient liability limits if you seriously injure someone else
What to Do Instead:
- Know your state’s minimum requirements—but consider higher limits
- Add collision and comprehensive coverage, especially for newer or financed bikes
- Consider uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage to protect against others’ lack of insurance
2. Forgetting to Insure Accessories and Custom Parts
Motorcycles often come with expensive gear—custom paint jobs, chrome upgrades, saddlebags, and aftermarket parts. A standard policy may only cover factory-installed equipment, leaving you unprotected if your upgrades are damaged or stolen.
What You Risk:
- Paying out-of-pocket for thousands in custom parts
- Incomplete replacement after a total loss
What to Do Instead:
- Ask your insurer about accessory or custom equipment endorsements
- Keep receipts and photos of all upgrades for documentation
- Make sure your policy reflects the actual value of your bike and modifications
3. Canceling Coverage During the Off-Season
Some riders cancel their policies in colder months to save money. But this can lead to coverage gaps, missed loyalty discounts, or even issues if the bike is stolen or damaged while in storage.
What You Risk:
- No protection for theft, fire, or vandalism while your bike is parked
- Potential rate hikes or denial of continuous-coverage discounts
- Reapplication hassles or lapses in liability compliance
What to Do Instead:
- Keep comprehensive-only coverage during off-season months
- Ask your insurer if they offer lay-up policies, which suspend collision/liability while maintaining theft/fire protection
4. Not Updating Your Policy After Major Life Changes
Life changes—so should your insurance. Failing to update your policy could lead to denied claims or invalid coverage.
Changes That May Affect Your Policy:
- New address or storage location
- Adding or removing riders
- Buying a new motorcycle
- Taking a motorcycle safety course
- Changing how often you ride (e.g., commuting vs. recreational)
What to Do Instead:
- Review your policy annually
- Notify your insurer promptly of any updates
- Ask about new discounts you may now qualify for
5. Assuming Auto Insurance Covers Motorcycle Use
Motorcycles and cars are insured under separate policies. Your auto insurance won’t transfer over if you decide to ride a friend’s bike or buy one on a whim.
What You Risk:
- Riding uninsured and facing fines, license suspension, or worse
- Being held personally liable for damages or injuries in an accident
What to Do Instead:
- Always have an active motorcycle insurance policy before hitting the road
- Consider non-owner motorcycle insurance if you frequently borrow bikes
- Never assume your coverage “follows you” like some aspects of auto insurance
Bonus Tip: Bundle and Save
Many insurers offer discounts if you bundle your motorcycle insurance with home, renters, or auto insurance. You may also save by:
- Completing a motorcycle safety course
- Maintaining a clean driving record
- Choosing a higher deductible
Pro Tip: Ask your insurance agent to review your entire policy every year, not just the premium.
Final Thoughts: Ride Smarter, Not Just Harder
Motorcycle insurance is more than just a legal requirement—it’s a vital part of protecting your bike, your finances, and your future. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure that when you rev up, you’re doing it the right way—with full protection and peace of mind.
Need help customizing your motorcycle policy? Talk to a licensed insurance agent who understands riders’ unique needs and can match you with the right protection at the right price.
At Priority Insurance LLC, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (864) 297-9744. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE.
Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.









