California boasts the highest average annual motorcycle insurance premium in the nation, standing at $715, surpassing the national average by $17 monthly.
PHOTO Courtesy | FREEPIK
This elevated rate is attributed to California’s prolonged riding season. Markel offers the most competitive rates for safe riders.
However, if you possess a high-value motorcycle or have incurred violations, it may be necessary to explore various coverage options.
California Motorcycle Insurance Coverage Requirements
Similar to other states, California establishes minimum legal mandates for motorcycle insurance. To lawfully ride motorcycles, including scooters, mopeds, sport bikes, and touring bikes, bikers must maintain at least:
$15,000 of bodily injury liability insurance per person
$30,000 of bodily injury liability insurance per accident
$5,000 of property damage liability insurance
That’s it! California’s modest motorcycle insurance prerequisites contribute to balancing the expenses associated with an extensive riding season.
Ways to Find Cheapest Motorcycle Insurance in California
To find affordable motorcycle insurance quotes in California quickly, call a local insurance agent. Ensure you compare quotes from at least three to five insurers to identify the lowest rates.
Average Cost of Motorcycle Insurance in California
In California, motorcycle insurance averages $715 annually or $60 monthly, surpassing the national average of $519 per year.
This discrepancy arises primarily due to the perpetual sunny and bike-friendly conditions in southern California, enabling a year-round riding season. Consequently, motorcycle insurance coverage is essential for all 365 days of the year.
Best Companies for Motorcycle Insurance in California
Unsure where to start your search for motorcycle insurance in California? We’ve conducted the groundwork to identify the top motorcycle insurance companies in the Golden State, offering tailored options to suit your profile and requirements.
1. Best for safe riders: Markel
Pros: Offers the lowest rates in California, numerous safety discounts
AM Best rating: A
BBB rating: A-
Jerry’s rating: 91/100
If you’re seeking the most economical motorcycle insurance in California and prioritize motorcycle safety, Markel Insurance is likely your optimal choice.
Differing from other companies listed, Markel specializes exclusively in motorcycle insurance, which presents both advantages and disadvantages. This specialization allows for a wide array of coverage options and specialized motorcycle insurance discounts, such as those for safety courses and accident forgiveness. However, it also means you can’t procure car insurance through Markel, necessitating separate policies for your bike and car. Additionally, as Markel operates solely in nine states, you might need to switch providers if relocating outside California.
2. Best for cheap rates for everyone: GEICO
The advantages include overall low rates and exceptional financial stability.
AM Best rating: A++ (Superior)
BBB rating: A+
Jerry’s rating: 85/100
If you do not meet the eligibility criteria for Markel’s best rates, GEICO likely presents as the most economical motorcycle insurance provider for you.
GEICO, a widely recognized option, is characterized by its affordability, simplicity, and extensive availability.
GEICO motorcycle insurance mirrors the coverage provided by their auto insurance policies, with a few additional options tailored for motorcycle riders, such as accessories coverage, helmet coverage, and emergency roadside assistance.
For owners of standard entry-level Yamaha motorcycles, GEICO typically offers comprehensive coverage, and bundling your motorcycle policy with car, homeowners, or renters insurance can lead to additional savings.
However, if you own a custom bike or a high-value model like a Harley-Davidson, exploring alternative options is advisable.
3. Best for custom bikes: Progressive
The advantages include an extensive array of coverage options.
AM Best rating: A+
BBB rating: A+
Jerry’s rating: 84/100
In addition to fundamental coverage, Progressive provides total loss coverage, carried contents coverage, enhanced injury protection, accessories and custom parts (CPE) coverage, OEM parts coverage, disappearing deductible coverage, and the list continues.
If you possess a high-value motorcycle, Progressive’s comprehensive insurance offerings can address all your requirements and provide you with reassurance—at a cost.
4. Best for high-risk bikers: Dairyland
The advantages encompass dependable coverage for high-risk riders and commendable additional features.
The drawbacks include elevated rates.
AM Best rating: A+
BBB rating: A+
Jerry’s rating: 82/100
Dairyland offers exceptional coverage options for motorcycle proprietors, such as replacement cost coverage for new motorcycles, trip interruption coverage, and OEM coverage.
Additionally, they provide numerous discounts, particularly for Harley-Davidson owners and members of motorcycle clubs.
Furthermore, they stand out as one of the premier insurers for bikers with a track record of violations.
Factors Affecting Cost of Motorcycle Insurance
Several factors influence the cost of motorcycle insurance. The model and make of the motorcycle are primary considerations, with insurance premiums typically increasing proportionally to the bike’s value.
Age also plays a significant role in determining insurance rates for motorcycle riders in California. Teenage riders, being perceived as higher risk by insurers, generally face elevated insurance premiums.
However, there is a notable decrease in premiums once riders reach the age of 25.
According to motorcycle.com, male riders can anticipate a reduction of approximately 20% in their premiums, while female riders may save between 12 to 15%.
Industry data and statistics indicate that individuals under 25 are more prone to accidents, leading insurance companies to impose higher premiums on younger riders.
Generally, insurance rates decrease with age until around the age of 70, after which they tend to increase again as senior drivers are considered higher risk.
However, not all teenagers or young adults will pay the same amount for motorcycle insurance in California. Despite being in a high-risk age group, there are ways to reduce insurance premiums, as highlighted by the Insurance Information Institute (III).
Taking a certified safety course, such as the Motorcycle Safety Foundation’s Beginning RiderCourse, can help lower premiums. Additionally, bundling motorcycle insurance with auto insurance often qualifies for discounts offered by most insurance companies.
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