If you own a motorcycle, you’re going to need high-quality insurance to protect yourself and others. Insurance is in place to protect you against loss if you get into an accident with another motorcycle or car. Like car insurance, there are different types of motorcycle insurance for different types of drivers as well as different types of motorcycles, so you can choose the policy that’s best suited to your needs. We’re here to break down everything you need to know about motorcycle insurance and why you need it.
Key Takeaways
- Most states require motorcycle insurance to legally operate motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters on public roads—so it’s important to check your local requirements.
- Coverage isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you ride a standard motorcycle, moped, scooter, or dirt bike, the type of insurance you need depends on your ride and how it’s registered.
Motorcycle insurance protects more than your bike. With options like liability, comprehensive, uninsured motorist, and custom parts coverage, you can get protection for your finances, medical costs, and gear—on or off the road.
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
49 out of 50 states require some form of insurance for motorcycle drivers. Drivers need to show proof of insurance before they can register their motorcycle and receive a license plate. Insurance requirements vary by state, and each state requires a minimum amount of property damage and bodily liability insurance. Most states require at least $25,000 in bodily injury protection, $50,000 per accident, and $10,000 in property damage coverage—expressed as 25/50/10.
More Reasons You Need Motorcycle Insurance
Motorcycle insurance isn’t just a legal requirement in most states—it’s a smart way to protect yourself, your bike, and others on the road. Here’s why having coverage matters:
- It’s required by law in most states to ride legally on public roads.
- Covers medical costs if you or others are injured in an accident.
- Pays for damage to your motorcycle after a crash or covered event.
- Protects against theft, vandalism, and natural disasters with comprehensive coverage.
- Shields you financially if you’re hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- Helps replace your bike if it’s totaled and you still owe money on a loan (with gap coverage).
Motorcycle Insurance Coverage Options
While almost every state requires a minimum amount of liability coverage, additional forms of insurance are available if you want to extend your coverage. Here are your motorcycle coverage options:
Liability Insurance
Liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage that affects others if you’re in an accident. It won’t cover any damage to yourself or your motorcycle. Guest passenger liability is an optional form of coverage in some states, which covers your passenger if you’re both involved in an accident.
Motorcycle Collision Insurance
Motorcycle collision insurance covers damage to your vehicle if you’re in an accident. Apart from your deductible, your insurance company usually reimburses you for the damage based on current market prices.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage covers any damage to your vehicle that isn’t the result of an accident, including fire, theft, vandalism, etc. Like collision coverage, your insurer will pay for any repairs based on the current value of your motorcycle, minus your deductible.
Custom Motorcycle Parts Coverage
Should you get into an accident, most motorcycle insurance companies will only cover the cost of damage to your motorcycle’s standard parts. Additional coverage for your custom motorcycle parts covers accessories, such as chrome parts, a custom paint job, trailers, and sidecars, if they’re damaged in an accident.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Protection (UM/UIM)
If you’re in an accident with an underinsured or uninsured driver, UIM covers any damage the other driver’s insurance would typically cover. This usually includes medical bills, lost wages, and property damage when applicable.
Gap Coverage
Regular comprehensive and collision coverage only reimburses you based on the current book price of your motorcycle. Like cars, motorcycles depreciate in value after you drive them off the lot, so the amount of money you’re reimbursed for might not cover the original cost of your bike. Gap coverage helps prevent this by paying for the gap between what you owe on the motorcycle and its current worth.
Motorcycle Insurance Types Overview
Choose from these motorcycle insurance coverage options to ride protected:
| Coverage Type | What It Covers | Why It Matters |
| Liability Insurance | Covers bodily injury and property damage you cause to others; optional guest passenger liability available. | Mandatory in most states; protects you from paying others’ expenses out of pocket. |
| Collision Insurance | Pays for repairs or replacement of your motorcycle after an accident, minus deductible. | Ensures your bike is covered even if you’re at fault. |
| Comprehensive Coverage | Covers non-collision damage like fire, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters, minus deductible. | Protects against unexpected, non-accident risks. |
| Custom Motorcycle Parts Coverage | Covers custom accessories (e.g., chrome, paint, trailers, sidecars) not included in standard policies. | Valuable for riders with aftermarket modifications. |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) | Covers your injuries, lost wages, and bike damage if the other driver lacks sufficient insurance. | Shields you when the other party can’t fully cover damages. |
| Gap Coverage | Pays the difference between your bike’s current value and the amount you still owe if it’s totaled. | Essential if your bike is financed, preventing you from paying out of pocket. |
What Vehicles Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?
From two wheels to six, gas to electric, The General® offers motorcycle insurance coverage for a wide range of vehicle types. Depending on your state and how your vehicle is registered, you may be able to get coverage for:
- Standard Motorcycles – Traditional two-wheeled bikes for everyday riding and weekend cruising.
- Mopeds and Scooters – Smaller, lower-speed vehicles that are perfect for quick commutes and urban travel. In many states, you’re required to have insurance for a moped or scooter—especially if it exceeds a certain engine size.
- Trikes – Three-wheeled motorcycles often converted from standard bikes. A great option for added stability and comfort.
- Reverse Trikes – These three-wheelers feature two front wheels and one in the back, offering unique handling and a secure ride.
- Autocycles – Three-wheeled vehicles that look and feel like a motorcycle but come with car-style features like seatbelts and steering wheels. They offer an open-air experience and may qualify for motorcycle insurance coverage in your state.
- Electric Motorcycles – Eco-friendly, battery-powered motorcycles that ride like gas-powered models and may be eligible for the same types of coverage.
- Limited Production Motorcycles – Custom-built or rare bikes. Liability insurance may be available, though these typically don’t qualify for comprehensive or collision coverage.
- Dirt Bikes – Also known as trail bikes, these are built for off-road use. Insurance coverage depends on whether they’ve been modified for street use and are legally registered.
- ATVs (All-Terrain Vehicles) – Four- or six-wheeled off-road vehicles with straddle seating and handlebars.
- UTVs (Utility Task Vehicles) – Side-by-side off-road vehicles with bucket or bench seats, a steering wheel, and a roll cage.
- Snowmobiles – Built for snowy terrain, these vehicles feature skis and a track system. Many riders choose seasonal insurance coverage.
Not sure if your moped, scooter, or specialty vehicle qualifies? Get a free quote today or contact The General to learn what’s covered in your state.
Stay Protected on the Open Road with Great Motorcycle Insurance from The General
If you own a motorcycle, or you’re thinking about buying one, you want your bike to be protected with the best comprehensive motorcycle insurance out there. It’s important to do your research as coverage needs can vary by bike, and some insurers only cover certain types of motorcycles.
The General is a top-rated insurance company with over 60 years’ experience of satisfying customers. Learn more about our motorcycle insurance coverage so you can protect your ride today and long into the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need insurance for a moped or scooter?
Yes, you typically need insurance for a scooter or moped—especially if it exceeds 50cc or meets your state’s definition of a motor vehicle. Most states require at least liability coverage to legally ride on public roads. Be sure to check your state’s requirements to avoid fines and stay protected.
Do you need motorcycle insurance to ride legally?
Yes. 49 states require you to have motorcycle insurance to ride on public roads. At the very least, you’ll need liability insurance to cover damage or injuries you may cause in an accident. Proof of insurance is also required before you can register your bike.
Is motorcycle insurance required for all riders?
In nearly every state, motorcycle insurance is required for all riders operating a motorcycle on public streets. Minimum coverage requirements vary, but most include bodily injury and property damage liability. Whether you’re a new rider or have years of experience, carrying insurance is essential for legal and financial protection.
Do I need motorcycle insurance if I only ride occasionally?
Yes, even if you only ride your motorcycle occasionally, you still need motorcycle insurance to stay legal and protected. Most states require liability coverage no matter how often you ride, and having year-round insurance ensures you’re covered anytime you hit the road—even for a quick weekend cruise.
