Getting the Right Custom Bike Insurance

If your custom bike is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, you'll want insurance that understands its unique value.

Custom bike insurance policies can vary significantly in terms of coverage and cost. Some policies may not cover custom parts or modifications, so it's essential to read the fine print.

A good custom bike insurance policy will cover you against theft, damage, and accidents, but may also offer additional coverage for custom parts and accessories.

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To qualify for custom bike insurance, you'll need to have your bike appraised by a professional. This is because custom bikes don't have a value in the NADA Appraisal Guide, which makes it difficult for insurers to set a policy cap.

The appraisal process can be a bit of a hassle, but it's worth it in the end. You'll need to have your chopper inspected for safety by the Department of Transportation or Motor Vehicles Bureau, depending on your state's laws. In North Carolina, for example, bikes newer than 35 years old must pass a safety inspection.

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Most custom bike owners are willing to pay a premium to secure their vehicle, so don't be afraid to shop around for insurance companies that specialize in custom bikes. Some large national insurance companies, like Progressive and Geico, may be able to provide you with a quote.

If you've modified your bike in a major way, be sure to disclose this information to the insurer. Sending photos of the modified parts can help them understand the extent of the customization. You may also want to consult with the insurer's referral team, who can provide you with guidance and a quote.

Some modifications, such as bar-ends, altered air filters, and braking or throttle adaptations, are typically covered at reasonable rates. However, other modifications, like handmade parts or high-performance upgrades, may be seen as too high a risk by some insurers.

To get the best quote possible, consider increasing your deductible, completing a motorcycle training course, or bundling your motorcycle insurance with other policies. Disclosing any modifications you've made to your bike, like a turbo or nitrous oxide kit, can also help you qualify for a discount.

Here are some common modifications that are typically covered by custom bike insurance:

You should start by considering liability coverage, which is the minimum required by most states and protects you financially against damages to another motorist's person or property.

Liability coverage doesn't protect your bike in the event of an accident, so you'll likely want to add collision and comprehensive coverage to your policy.

Collision coverage will protect your bike if it's damaged in an accident, whether it's with another vehicle or a stationary object. This type of coverage is a must-have for any custom bike.

Comprehensive coverage may also be a good idea, as it covers non-traffic accidents and mishaps, such as damage from "Acts of God" like fire, flood, wind, and other weather events. It also covers criminal activity like theft and vandalism.

However, some custom bikes may not qualify for comprehensive insurance, including kit bikes, rebuilt or retitled bikes, or bikes with a non-original frame. This is something you should check with your insurance provider before purchasing a policy.

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Insurance coverage is a must for custom bike owners, as it protects your prized possession against various risks. You should start shopping for coverage with large national insurance companies like Progressive, Geico, and Dairyland.

To ensure you're adequately covered, consider the following types of insurance: liability, collision, and comprehensive. Liability coverage protects you financially against damages to another motorist's person or property. Collision coverage will protect your bike if it's damaged in an accident, whether it's with another vehicle or a stationary object.

Comprehensive coverage, on the other hand, covers non-traffic accidents and mishaps, such as damage from "Acts of God" like fire, flood, wind, and other weather events. It also covers criminal activity like theft and vandalism. However, some custom bikes may not qualify for comprehensive insurance, including kit bikes, rebuilt or retitled bikes, or bikes with a non-original frame.

Here are some common modifications that are typically covered at reasonable rates:

Agreed Value is a type of insurance coverage that's especially important for custom motorcycles. This coverage ensures you receive the agreed-upon value of your bike in the event of a total loss.

To get Agreed Value coverage, you'll need to indicate the value of your bike when submitting your insurance application. The insurer's underwriters will then confirm this amount, making sure you're not over- or under-insured.

You may need to provide receipts for parts and labor, or photos of your bike to support your claim. This is a normal part of the process, so don't be alarmed.

In some cases, your Agreed Value can be increased as you upgrade and modify your bike. This is a great feature, especially if you're constantly making changes to your ride.

It's worth noting that Agreed Value coverage can be a bit more expensive than other types of insurance. However, the peace of mind that comes with knowing you'll receive fair value in the event of a loss is well worth the extra cost.

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Comprehensive coverage is a type of insurance that protects your custom bike against natural and artificial disasters, including vandalism, theft, riots, flood, earthquake, and other events beyond your control. It's essential to have comprehensive coverage in place to secure your prized possession against perils.

Comprehensive coverage may also cover non-traffic accidents and mishaps, such as damage from fire, wind, and other weather events. Some custom bikes may not qualify for comprehensive insurance, including kit bikes, rebuilt or retitled bikes, or bikes with a non-original frame.

Comprehensive insurance pays for damage to your bike from flooding, hitting an animal, and other events beyond your control. It also covers motorcycle theft and vandalism.

Here are some common modifications or custom features that are usually covered by insurers at reasonable rates:

Custom motorcycle insurance typically includes bodily injury & property damage liability coverage, which pays for any damage to other bikes, property, and covers injuries to other riders.

This coverage can also help you pay for legal expenses if you're ever sued.

Progressive protects you and your custom bike with the same motorcycle insurance coverages they offer for standard motorcycles.

Bodily injury coverage is typically part of the liability coverage required by your state, and most experts recommend having protection that exceeds the state minimum.

You can get custom motorcycle insurance for as low as $75/year for a liability policy. This is a great option for those on a budget.

Bodily injury coverage is typically part of the liability coverage required by your state, and most experts recommend having protection that exceeds the state minimum. This type of coverage can help pay for costs if you injure or kill someone in an at-fault accident.

You should start shopping for coverage with large national insurance companies like Progressive, Geico, and Dairyland. They often have a wide range of options and competitive rates.

If your custom motorcycle is not listed in the NADA Appraisal Guide, or is built from a kit or individual parts, you may only be able to get liability coverage for your bike. This means you won't be able to insure your bike for physical damage.

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If you're a custom bike owner, you'll want to consider purchasing insurance coverage for custom equipment and accessories, as it's pretty standard for owners in this situation.

This optional coverage, known as OEM Parts, would secure the original parts of your bike, which is especially important if you have something costly or special on your bike.

You should try your best to safeguard your bike's original parts, especially if they're expensive or special.

Bodily injury coverage is a crucial aspect of custom motorcycle insurance, covering costs if you injure or kill someone in an at-fault accident. It also protects your passenger.

Most states require liability coverage, and experts recommend having protection that exceeds the state minimum. This ensures you're adequately covered in case of an accident.

A liability policy can be obtained for as low as $75/year, making it a relatively affordable option. However, rates and policies can vary depending on your location and specific needs.

Here are some common rates and policies to consider:

Keep in mind that if your custom motorcycle is not listed in the NADA Appraisal Guide, or is built from a kit or individual parts, you may only be able to obtain liability coverage.