How much to insure a motorcycle in Ontario?

Are you thinking about buying a motorcycle in Ontario? If so, you likely have some questions about motorcycle insurance costs you need answered. Luckily, we've broken down all you need to know before you head over to your appointment to buy coverage. Stick around for more information.

How much does motorcycle insurance in Ontario cost?

So, how much is motorcycle insurance in Ontario? The average motorcycle insurance cost in Ontario ranges between $1500 and $3000. However, like auto insurance, there are several factors that go into determining what you'll specifically pay for motorcycle coverage in the province. Therefore, depending on your risk profile, you may pay significantly more or less than the average motorist.

What factors determine Ontario motorcycle insurance premiums?

As we mentioned, insurance companies consider individualized factors to determine whether you are a high-risk driver or not. While each insurance company may weigh certain factors differently, generally speaking, your premiums will fluctuate based on the following:

Your age

If you're a young rider, you can anticipate higher motorcycle insurance rates than someone with a full G-class licence who has had their motorcycle licence for many years. Statistically, drivers under the age of 25 are more at risk of being involved in an accident compared to those who have more experience on the road.

Make and model of motorcycle

The make and model of your motorcycle, whether it be a touring motorcycle, motorized scooter, vintage bike, or full-speed motorcycle, will also determine what you pay for your motorcycle coverage.

Where you live

Living in an urban area with high traffic and crime rates tends to result in more expensive motorcycle insurance rates compared to those living in more rural areas of Ontario. This is largely due to the increased risk of being in an accident or having your motorcycle stolen, which increases your risk profile as a customer.

Your riding habits

Are you planning to ride your motorcycle daily instead of just in the riding season? The more you ride, the more time you'll spend on the road, which will increase your risk profile and potentially your insurance premiums.

Additionally, your driving history is also something taken into consideration by providers. For example, if you have numerous traffic violations like traffic tickets and other violations, you may be asked to purchase high-risk motorcycle coverage, which costs more than the average price of motorcycle insurance.

Your previous claims history

The more insurance claims you have on your file, the greater risk you pose to insurance companies. To offset this risk, insurance providers will increase your motorcycle insurance costs, as you are more likely to cost them money in the future.

The types of coverages and limits you choose

Lastly, your motorcycle insurance costs are also influenced by the types of coverage you choose and your coverage limits. The higher your limits, the more you'll pay. The same goes for opting into optional policies, given that you'll have more protection in the event you need to file a claim in the future.

Is marital status considered when calculating insurance rates?

This is a common motorcycle insurance myth that is completely false. Regardless of whether you're married, common-law, dating, or single, your insurance company can not use this as a factor when determining how much you pay for coverage.

How can I find cheap motorcycle insurance?

Finding cheap motorcycle insurance is possible when you use these tips and tricks to lower premiums:

Compare rates and motorcycle insurance quotes

Before purchasing motorcycle insurance, we highly recommend obtaining multiple quotes from different providers. Doing so will allow you to compare coverages and premiums, so you can find the best rates available without sacrificing the level of protection you have. Working with a broker can allow you to get quotes from different providers with one phone call. Just remember that the lowest rate isn't always the best. Make sure you still have sufficient protection for peace of mind later on.

Work with an insurance broker

Insurance brokers work independently from insurance companies, which allows them to help customers shop around, compare motorcycle insurance quotes, and give advice when needed. The best thing about brokers is that their unbiased assistance is free of cost, which means you won't have to pay to use their services!

Consider bundling your home and auto insurance policy

Do you have more than one insurance plan already? Consider bundling your home and auto policies to save! Most insurance providers offer a discount to customers who have more than one policy with them as a way of saying thank you for staying loyal to the business. So, if you can, take advantage of this!

Increase your deductible

A deductible is the amount you pay your insurance company when filing a claim for damages or losses. By opting for a higher deductible, you're taking on more of a financial burden should you need to file a claim in the future under your motorcycle policy. And, as a result, most providers will lower your premiums.

Ask about discounts

Did you know that motorcycle insurance companies offer discounts to motorcycle owners all the time? Whether it be for completing a safety rider training course, installing security devices on your bike, being a member of a professional organization, or having a clean driving record, there are savings out there. You just have to ask!

Pay for your motorcycle insurance policy upfront

The majority of motorcycle insurance companies in Ontario add administration fees to those who pay for their premiums on a monthly basis. To avoid these added fees, consider paying for your motorcycle insurance upfront.

What Ontario motorcycle insurance is mandatory?

Like auto insurance, if you wish to use your motorcycle on public roadways, you'll need to purchase basic motorcycle insurance in Ontario. Below, we will outline the mandatory types of insurance required for motorcycles in Ontario:

Third-party liability insurance

Third-party liability, or liability car insurance, financially protects drivers in the event they cause bodily injuries or property damage to a third party while riding their motorcycle. Should a lawsuit be filed against them, this motorcycle insurance covers medical costs, legal fees, repairs, funeral expenses, and other fees associated with your settlement.

The minimum liability insurance for motorists in Ontario is $200,000. However, most motorcyclists opt for higher limits to ensure they are sufficiently protected.

Accident benefits coverage

Accident benefits coverage protects policyholders if they are involved in a collision that injures them, their passengers, or pedestrians, regardless of who is at fault. Should injuries occur, this insurance coverage will cover medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and other associated expenses related to your recovery. The minimum for this motorcycle insurance in Ontario is $200,000.

Uninsured motorist insurance

Uninsured automobile insurance provides coverage to policyholders if they are in a motorcycle accident with an at-fault driver who is uninsured or underinsured. This insurance coverage also protects you if you are hit by a hit-and-run driver. Again, the minimum coverage requirement for this policy is $200,000.

Optional coverages

While most motorcycle insurance policies provide enough coverage to drivers, other motorcycle owners choose to purchase optional coverage for an extra cost. Here are some common Ontario motorcycle insurance policies you may want to consider:

Comprehensive coverage

Comprehensive coverage, also known as comprehensive car coverage, will compensate you if your motorbike suffers damage in a non-collision incident. Comprehensive coverage typically covers theft, vandalism, falling objects, fire damage, and extreme weather conditions. Note that policyholders must pay a deductible before repairs or replacements are covered.

Collision coverage

Collision car coverage protects you if your motorcycle is damaged in an at-fault accident. It pays for repair or replacement costs required up to your coverage limits. Again, you must pay your deductible to your insurance provider before all of the remaining costs are paid.

Direct compensation - property damage

While once mandatory for all Ontario motorists, as of 2024, direct compensation-property damage is now optional. If you get involved in a motorcycle collision with an at-fault motorist, and your bike is damaged, this coverage allows you to work with your own insurance company during the claims process. Ultimately, this insurance policy ensures policyholders are compensated as swiftly as possible.

Accident forgiveness

One final type of optional car insurance coverage popular among motorcycle riders is accident forgiveness. Accident forgiveness is additional coverage that can be added to your car insurance policy as an endorsement to protect your driving record and to help prevent your insurance premium from increasing if you have an at-fault collision claim.

Note: coverage varies by province.

Should I get year-round or seasonal motorcycle insurance?

Whether or not to buy year-round or seasonal motorcycle coverage is something many new riders experience. However, most motorcycle insurance companies don't flat-out offer this type of coverage as an option. You may, however, have the option to cancel your policy or pause it during the wintertime.

Before you do this, know that not having coverage for your motorcycle part of the year to save money isn't always the best option. For example, if your bike were to suffer damage or be stolen from your private property, you wouldn't be able to file a claim with your insurance company, meaning you'd be responsible for all repairs and replacement out of pocket.

Further, if you do choose to cancel your motorcycle insurance in Ontario before the end of your term, you'll likely be charged a cancellation fee. The risk of having a harder time finding coverage in the future is also something you'll need to worry about.

I just got my motorcycle licence, how can I stay safe on the road?

There's no denying that there are numerous benefits of motorcycle riding. Whether you want to meet new people or check out motorcycle routes around Alberta, or other provinces, riding a bike offers the unique opportunity to experience the world around you in a different way.

That said, there are numerous hazards to riding a motorcycle, which is why motorcycle riding safety, especially group motorcycle safety, is imperative. Before heading out on the road, take note of these safety tips below:

• Inspect your bike before you go: Before heading out on the open road, whether solo or in a group, make sure you conduct a thorough inspection of your bike.
• Fill up your tank: Don't forget to fill up your tank before you leave; this can help prevent running out of gas in a rural area with no gas stations around.
• Get contact information of other riders: If you're travelling in a group, make sure you have the contact information of all other riders in case of an emergency.
• Take breaks: Throughout your journey, remember to take breaks to refuel, use the restroom, and get a bite to eat or drink.
• Stagger riders: In a group setting, stagger your riders instead of riding side-by-side; this will give you more room to travel and reduce the risk of getting into a collision.
• Put experienced riders at the front: Allow experienced riders to travel at the front of your group, with less experienced riders at the back. This will help establish a safe pace while travelling.
• Wear protective gear: Even if it's a nice summer day, you need to make sure you're wearing the right protective gear when riding your motorcycle.
• Follow the rules of the road: Whether you're sharing the road with motorcycles or riding one yourself, remember to follow the rules of the road. Check your blind spots, don't speed, and give the motorists around you enough space at all times.

How BrokerLink can help

At BrokerLink, we help motorcycle enthusiasts find affordable motorcycle insurance tailored to their needs. With access to multiple auto insurance policies from some of Canada's top providers, our insurance brokers can help you shop around, compare costs, and answer any questions you may have! Simply browsing? Get a free motorcycle insurance quote using our online quote tool!

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