Has your bike been collecting dust all winter long? Are you dreaming of the day you can take it out of the garage again and hit the open road? Well, with Spring almost here that day is getting closer! Before you hit the road, ensure you protect yourself by having the right motorcycle insurance coverage.
Whether this is your first time insuring a motorcycle or you’re looking for a refresher, there are a few things to consider.
ICBC BASIC MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE – YOU ARE REQUIRED TO HAVE IT!
As it is with all other forms of automobile insurance in British Columbia, motorcycle owners/operators are required to carry ICBC Basic Autoplan insurance. Coverage is mandatory, whether you ride a BMW S1000 XR, Harley Softail, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Triumph Bonneville Bobber or anything in between.
The most notable coverages included in ICBC’s Basic Autoplan Insurance are $200,000 in Third-Party Liability coverage and Enhanced Accident Benefits (even if you’re found responsible – at fault- for the crash).
OPTIONAL COVERAGES – ICBC OR PRIVATE INSURER, WHAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Motorcycles are unlike the cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans that you share the road with. As a rider of Cruising, Touring, Standard, Sport and/or Dual Purpose Bikes you demand greater protection for your on- or off-road machine. You may require robust coverage for off-season storage, for trailer / riding gear, and so much more.
Along with ICBC insurance, Park provides you with access to private insurance designed exclusively for B.C. motorcyclists. This may include an annual Physical Damage policy for year-round riders and those who store in the off-season. There are also “Agreed Value” policies which mean total losses are settled at the limit of insurance, while partial losses are settled at the actual cost of repairs.
OPTIONAL COVERAGES TO CONSIDER
- Liability – covers against injuries or damage that you may cause to other people or their property while riding your motorcycle. Your basic insurance with ICBC includes $200,000 third-party liability coverage. We always recommend increasing this coverage to provide proper protection.
- Collision – pays for any repairs to your motorcycle in the event that you are involved in an accident with another vehicle or object
- Comprehensive – covers you for events such as vandalism, theft, or weather related incidents
- Income Top-Up – additional income replacement support to supplement the wage loss benefits provided by ICBC’s Enhanced Care.
COVERAGE FEATURES AND EXTENSIONS
Whether you’ve chosen private or public insurance, you’ll want to consider:
- Does your annual policy include storage during the off-season?
- What is included and excluded in your Physical Damage policy?
- What is the motorcycle’s Agreed Value, and does it include riding gear?
- Can multiple bikes be insured on one policy?
- Is coverage automatically included for a motorcycle trailer?
- What Riding Gear coverage is included, and what can be added?
- Is there Lock Re-Keying coverage if your keys are stolen?
- Is Emergency Roadside Assistance included?
- What Travel & Touring Protection comes with the policy?
CLASSIC/COLLECTOR MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE BC
Looking for a policy to protect your 1969 Honda CB750, 1977 Harley-Davidson Low Rider, 1945 Indian Chief, or other iconic road warrior? Don’t let your classic become someone else’s “barn find” years from now. Secure private auto insurance from vintage motorcycle insurance experts such as Hagerty. Park will provide you with access to the exact coverage that you need for your collectable. Learn more here.
MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TIPS
It’s likely been a while since you’ve ridden your motorcycle, as we come out of winter and into spring. Before you hope back on, ensure you complete a thorough inspection. First, check your tires for wear and tear, and ensure both tires are properly inflated.
Next, move on to your brakes. When’s the last time your brake pads were changed? Are they in good, safe condition, or are they showing signs of damage or wear? From there it’s important to check that all of your lights are working properly. Look and see if your headlights, taillights and turn signals are all in working order. If some have burnt out, you will need to replace them.
Finally, check your fluids! Fluid levels like brake, coolant, transmission, and clutch fluids can change over time. Set yourself up for success by ensuring these are all full before you bring your motorcycle out for the season. While you’re at it, check for any parts that could have become rusty over time, and tend to them.
Once you’re ready to hit the road, contact your insurance provider to ensure you are adequately covered for the season. If anything has changed since your last policy, such as your home address or purpose of insuring your motorcycle, let your insurance broker know so that it can be reflected on your policy.
Before you head out on the road, read up on some motorcycle safety tips! Some of our top recommended tips are:
1. WEAR THE RIGHT GEAR!
Make sure your safety is a top priority. Helmets, face shields, gloves, and protective clothing are important while riding your motorcycle in the event of an accident. You only have one body, make sure it’s protected!
2. ADOPT A PRE-RIDE SAFETY CHECKLIST
As listed above, do a 360 check of your ride. Are all the fluids topped up? Are your lights working properly? Are your brakes in working order? The best thing you can do is double check these things in order to prevent surprises on the highway. If something seems off, make sure you take it to the shop before hitting the road.
3. PLAY BY THE RULES
While riding a motorcycle provides you with the agility to slip through traffic jams, avoid the temptation! Doing so puts you at higher risk of being involved in an accident, and sometimes other motorists on the road won’t see or expect you coming.
4. REVIEW HAZARDOUS MOTORCYCLE ZONES
British Columbia is known for its beautiful, long winding roads – perfect for a day long motorcycle ride. However, some of those highways have some areas that are known for hazardous motorcycle areas. Take some time to review the ICBC motorcycle crash map before heading out on a ride so you can be prepared for hazardous roads.
If you are new to the motorcycle game, or haven’t ridden one for a while and would like a refresher. ICBC has provided a “Learn To Ride Smart” guide on their website.
Additionally, we also have a blog article that breaks down these safety tips more in depth.
No matter where you ride your motorcycle this year, we want to ensure you are protected. Get in touch with one of our brokers today for a no-obligation consultation.
