All riders will agree that there is nothing like hitting the open road on your motorcycle. It is an indescribable feeling of freedom. However, you may be wondering if you need to insure your motorcycle even when you can't ride it, like through snowy winter months in states like Michigan. That’s where the best temporary or seasonal motorcycle insurance comes into play. Learn more about this type of coverage and mile-by-mile options for infrequent riders here.
Best Seasonal Motorcycle Insurance:
- VOOM
- Markel
- Safeco
- Dairyland
- USAA
Who Is Temporary Motorcycle Insurance Best For?
The best temporary motorcycle insurance is an affordable and flexible way for riders who are looking for coverage over a short period of time. A temporary policy allows you to be covered for however long you prefer — lasting from 1 day to 1 week.
The insurance is best known to assist those who borrow, test ride or collect bikes and in the event of an emergency. It may also be appropriate for infrequent or seasonal riders. You will come to find that most people who borrow a friend's bike can stay on the road while their vehicle is in for service or repair or during a test ride if you’re planning to purchase a motorcycle. Choosing temporary motorcycle insurance will not impact any existing policies.
During a test ride, it is still just as essential as ever to make sure you are fully protected. If you want coverage for only a few days, you can invest in temporary motorcycle insurance without signing up for unnecessary long-term coverage.
After a test ride, you will no doubt want to pick up your new bike as soon as possible. If you neglect to arrange ongoing insurance, though, you won’t be able to drive away on your new wheels. Make sure you find the proper protection with temporary or seasonal motorcycle insurance for your ride home.
Accidents can happen at any time and to anyone; if you are in a situation in which you need to ride another bike quickly, temporary motorcycle insurance is the way to go. You can rest assured that coverage begins instantly.
Seasonal Riders
Those who choose to ride only during certain months, such as the summer, can look for temporary motorcycle insurance for coverage. As a seasonal rider, insurance policies provide protection only during a set period. This eliminates the need to pay premiums for the months when your motorcycle is in storage or not in use.
Infrequent Riders
Infrequent riders, like renters, travelers or international drivers, are considered infrequent riders. Temporary motorcycle insurance is the best choice because you are given a chance to opt for coverage only when you plan on riding. This will help you save money by eliminating monthly premiums while your bike sits untouched for a length of time.
Best Motorcycle Insurance Overall
What Are the Benefits of Seasonal Motorcycle Insurance?
The best temporary motorcycle insurance is perfect for short periods of use and in emergencies. This insurance is offered in the form of comprehensive protection, providing coverage for accidents, theft and fire.
If your bike is involved in an accident under temporary insurance, it will be fully repaired or written off under comprehensive coverage. The insurance company will likely pay out the current market value of the bike. This protection serves you regardless of who is at fault.
What Are the Drawbacks of Seasonal Motorcycle Insurance?
Concerning the drawbacks of the best temporary motorcycle insurance, riders tend to think they will always save money on this type of protection. That is not always the case. Multiple factors will determine the final price of your temporary insurance. Your driving history, age, location, experience, possible discounts and more are all considered. The price is never the same for everyone.
Specific agencies only offer temporary motorcycle insurance. Not every company provides this service, so you will have to do your research adequately if you need temporary insurance.
What Does Temporary Motorcycle Insurance Cover?
In your search for the best temporary motorcycle insurance, you will find that most policies offer similar coverage options as standard motorcycle insurance. The following are covered under temporary insurance:
- 3rd-party only: Any damages or injuries to other people and their property but not your bike. This is the minimum level of protection required by law.
- 3rd-party fire and theft: Coverage is provided as well are fire and theft damages to your motorcycle.
- Comprehensive temporary insurance: This will cover the costs of damages to your bike, injuries you suffer as well as any 3rd-party claims.
What Doesn’t Temporary Motorcycle Insurance Cover?
All motorcycle insurance policies, as a general rule, outline situations in which coverage would not apply. This can usually be found in the exclusions section of each coverage. Temporary motorcycle insurance will not cover if:
- Bike used as a taxi or delivery service
- Racing or performing stunts
- Intentional acts to harm, hurt or cause damages
- Committing criminal acts
Temporary Motorcycle Insurance Provider Reviews
As you begin to compare motorcycle coverage options, consider what you are likely to pay, risk factors and state motorcycle requirement laws. For optimum results, Benzinga has provided information below on the most effective temporary motorcycle insurance.
- Low mileage riders
Best for Mile-by-Mile Coverage: VOOM Motorcycle Insurance
VOOM motorcycle insurance says per mile coverage is ideal for motorcyclists who travel short distances or ride only occasionally. This service does not require a physical device or mobile app to track mileage or behavior. Riders just send in a photo of their odometers every month. VOOM specializes in data-driven, usage-based insurance products associated with high risks.
Pros:
- VOOM offers coverage options like liability, comprehensive, medical payments and collision.
- Riders pay a low monthly base rate.
Con:
- VOOM is not available in every state.
AM Best rating: A
Best Overall: Markel Corp.
Markel Corp. (NYSE: MKL) motorcycle insurance offers an expansive list of discounts and accident forgiveness. It has been known to save insured drivers up to 35% of their typical premium costs.
When compared to other agencies, Markel has consistently received fewer complaints than competing agencies.
Pros:
- 24/7 claims reporting at your convenience
- Savings up to 35% off premium
Con:
- Not available in every state
AM Best rating: A
- Bundling regular car insurance with specialty policies
Best for Cheap Prices: Safeco Insurance
Safeco Insurance is known to be the cheapest among motorcycle insurance carriers. Many free features that competitors often charge for are included in Safeco’s policies.
In addition to low prices, Safeco offers 24/7 roadside assistance and claims filing, numerous discount options and coverage for custom and original equipment manufacturer parts.
Pros:
- Dedicated agents
- Multiple options for discounts
Con:
- Can’t sign up for a policy online
AM Best rating: A
- Affordable coverage
Best for High-Risk Drivers: Dairyland
What differentiates Dairyland from all other motorcycle insurance companies is that it is willing to take on high-risk drivers. Drivers with less-than-stellar records can still obtain coverage through Dairyland. Its policies include coverage and SR-22 documentation for high-risk drivers.
Dairyland is reliable insurance for drivers who want a 2nd chance.
Pros:
- A high number of positive customer reviews
- Easy, guided claims process assisted by a representative
Con:
- Currently not available in all states
AM Best rating: A+
Best for Military Members: USAA
USAA motorcycle insurance offers a wide variety of investment products for military members. It continues to be a leader in customer service and its 24/7 claim filing. As a military member, past or present, USAA provides excellent service for you and your family.
Pros:
- Wide range of policy options
- Affordable policies
Con:
- Only available to servicemembers, veterans and family members of those who have served
AM Best rating: A++
Motorcycle Coverage for Seasonal and Infrequent Riders
Sometimes you may only need the best motorcycle insurance that lasts for a short period. It doesn’t matter whether you are picking up a new motorcycle and need to ride it back home, you are borrowing a bike for a long weekend or you are simply looking for a month’s coverage plan to take advantage of nice weather. Temporary motorcycle insurance can help you. It has proven highly beneficial in times of emergencies by providing the protection you need and deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is motorcycle insurance required by law?
It is a law in 47 states — except for Florida, Montana and Washington — to carry motorcycle insurance. Studies have shown that there are roughly 8.4 million motorcycles registered in the U.S. This represents about 3% of the total number of registered motor vehicles.
Do I need to insure my motorcycle even if I’m not riding it?
Should you choose not to insure your motorcycle, you must understand the risks associated with your actions. Storing your motorcycle does not mean it is free from the threat of fire and storm damages or even theft. These instances occur more than you might think. Even though not mandated, it is highly suggested you insure your motorcycle regardless of whether you ride it or not.
Can I cancel my motorcycle insurance in the winter?
You can, but it can have consequences, like increased insurance rates when you sign back up, or total loss of your bike without a replacement option if something happens to it in storage. That’s why choosing mile by mile or seasonal coverage may be best.
Money-saving Motorcycle Insurance
Harley-Davidson Insurance Services provides services as a trusted motorcycle insurance agency that knows all about the motorcycle lifestyle. The company stands behind its policies with industry-leading services, coverage and support. You’ll also get money-saving motorcycle insurance discounts and experienced customer service and claims support.
You can get Harley-Davidson Insurance today with a free, quick quote.