When shopping for motorcycle insurance, one of the biggest questions riders face is whether full coverage is really worth the extra money. While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest policy possible, full coverage can make a major difference when accidents, theft, or unexpected damage occur. So, is paying more for full coverage truly worth the higher insurance on a motorcycle cost? Let’s explore the details to help you make an informed decision.
What Does “Full Coverage” Motorcycle Insurance Mean?
“Full coverage” doesn’t refer to a single type of policy—it’s a combination of several coverage types that protect you financially from almost every scenario. A full coverage motorcycle insurance plan typically includes:
Liability coverage – Pays for injury or property damage you cause to others.
Collision coverage – Covers damage to your own bike in an accident, regardless of fault.
Comprehensive coverage – Protects your motorcycle from theft, vandalism, fire, and natural disasters.
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage – Helps if you’re hit by someone who doesn’t have enough insurance.
Medical payments or personal injury protection (PIP) – Covers medical expenses for you and your passengers.
Each of these coverage types adds protection but also increases your monthly premium, which is why the insurance on a motorcycle cost for full coverage is noticeably higher than for liability-only policies.
Average Cost of Full Coverage Motorcycle Insurance
The cost of full coverage can vary depending on your bike, your location, and your riding history. However, here’s a general estimate of what riders typically pay:
| Type of Coverage | Average Monthly Cost | Average Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Liability-Only | $30 – $70 | $360 – $850 |
| Full Coverage | $80 – $200 | $960 – $2,400 |
So, the insurance on a motorcycle cost for full coverage is often two to three times higher than basic liability insurance. But that difference comes with a lot of added protection—especially if your motorcycle is new, valuable, or financed.
When Full Coverage Is Worth It
Whether full coverage is worth the price depends on several personal and financial factors. Let’s look at the situations where full coverage is usually a smart investment.
1. You Own a New or Expensive Motorcycle
If you’ve spent thousands of dollars on your motorcycle, full coverage is almost always worth it. Repair costs for modern motorcycles can be high, and replacing a totaled or stolen bike could be financially devastating without comprehensive and collision coverage. Paying an extra $100 a month is a small price compared to losing a $15,000 motorcycle.
2. Your Motorcycle Is Financed or Leased
If you have a loan or lease, your lender likely requires full coverage until the loan is paid off. This ensures the bike remains protected while it’s technically owned by the financing company.
3. You Live in an Area with High Theft or Accident Rates
Motorcycle thefts are surprisingly common, especially in urban areas or places with mild climates where riding is year-round. Comprehensive insurance protects against theft, vandalism, and natural damage. If you live in a high-risk area, full coverage could easily pay for itself in the long run.
4. You Ride Frequently
The more you’re on the road, the greater your risk of an accident. Daily commuters or long-distance riders benefit more from full coverage than occasional weekend riders because they face higher exposure to risk.
When Full Coverage Might Not Be Worth It
On the other hand, there are cases where full coverage may not make financial sense.
1. Your Bike’s Value Is Low
If your motorcycle is older or worth less than $3,000–$4,000, full coverage may not be cost-effective. The premium increase might approach or even exceed what you’d get from an insurance payout after a claim.
2. You Ride Infrequently
If you only ride a few times a year—say, for seasonal fun—a liability-only policy may be sufficient, especially if your bike is stored securely in a garage during off months.
3. You Can Afford to Replace Your Bike
If losing your motorcycle wouldn’t cause a financial setback, you might choose to self-insure by setting aside savings instead of paying extra for full coverage. However, this only works for riders with the means to absorb such losses.
Pros and Cons of Full Coverage Motorcycle Insurance
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Covers theft, fire, vandalism, and natural disasters | Higher monthly premiums |
| Protects your bike regardless of fault in accidents | May not be worth it for older, low-value bikes |
| Peace of mind while financing or leasing | Deductibles can still apply |
| Includes uninsured motorist protection | Can be overkill for occasional riders |
Understanding these trade-offs helps clarify whether the extra insurance on a motorcycle cost aligns with your financial comfort and riding habits.
How Much More Does Full Coverage Actually Cost?
The price difference between liability-only and full coverage varies depending on many factors. Let’s consider an example:
Rider A: 30 years old, owns a 2023 Harley-Davidson Street Glide
Liability-only: $60/month
Full coverage: $145/month
Rider B: 45 years old, owns a 2010 Honda Shadow
Liability-only: $35/month
Full coverage: $80/month
Here, the newer and more valuable motorcycle nearly doubles the insurance on a motorcycle cost, while the older model shows a smaller increase. This illustrates how full coverage scales with the bike’s market value and the rider’s profile.
Tips to Save on Full Coverage Motorcycle Insurance
If you’ve decided full coverage is right for you, there are still plenty of ways to keep your premiums affordable:
Increase Your Deductible – Opt for a higher deductible to reduce monthly payments.
Bundle Policies – Combine motorcycle insurance with auto or home coverage for a discount.
Take Safety Courses – Completing approved motorcycle safety training can cut costs by up to 15%.
Maintain a Clean Record – Avoid tickets and claims to keep your insurance on a motorcycle cost low.
Install Anti-Theft Devices – Locks, alarms, and tracking systems help lower your comprehensive coverage rates.
Shop Around Regularly – Compare quotes every year or two to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
Making the Right Decision
Ultimately, deciding whether full coverage is worth it depends on your motorcycle’s value, your financial situation, and your risk tolerance. For most riders with new or mid-value bikes, the extra protection is well worth the higher premium. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that if your bike is stolen, damaged, or totaled, your insurance will help you recover without a major financial loss.
However, if your motorcycle is older, inexpensive, or rarely used, liability-only coverage may be the smarter choice. You’ll meet legal requirements without overpaying for coverage you may never use.
Final Thoughts
Full coverage undeniably increases the insurance on a motorcycle cost, but it also offers the broadest protection available. It’s an investment in security—shielding you from costly repairs, theft, and unexpected accidents.
If your motorcycle holds significant financial or emotional value, full coverage is more than just a policy—it’s peace of mind on two wheels. But if your bike is older or easily replaceable, you can confidently save money with a liability-only policy.
In the end, the best motorcycle insurance plan is one that fits your riding lifestyle, financial comfort, and long-term peace of mind.