Whether you drive a motorcycle, moped or scooter, you may want to consider taking out insurance. To help you navigate your way around motorcycle cover, we’ve put together answers to some frequently asked questions.
What are the benefits of having insurance for your motorcycle?
Insurance protects you against sudden, unforeseen and unintended damage or loss. Depending on the level of cover you choose, this can include theft or sudden damage to your motorcycle as a result of an accident, as well as damage you might cause to someone else's vehicle or property. Either scenario can leave you vulnerable to unexpected costs, such as the financial burden of replacing your motorcycle after an accident or paying for the repairs to someone else’s vehicle if you are liable for the damage. Without insurance, you may need to pay for repairs or replacement out of your own pocket, because no matter how careful you are, you can’t control the outcome of an accident, theft or fire.
What about insurance for mopeds?
Mopeds and scooters are covered under our Motorcycle Insurance Policy, as well as motorcycles.
How much will I receive if my motorcycle is written off or stolen?
When you take out insurance, your motorcycle will be insured for either the agreed value or the market value, which is the amount that will be paid out if your motorcycle is a total loss or stolen, minus your excess and any applicable deductions such as outstanding premium or on-road costs.
When you take out or renew a Comprehensive or Third Party, Fire and Theft policy, we'll pay you your agreed value if your motorcycle can't be repaired or is stolen. The agreed value is shown on your policy schedule and should be enough for you to buy a vehicle with the same specifications. That's why it's important to check the value and discuss it with your insurer if you have any concerns.
How much will motorcycle insurance cost?
The cost of motorcycle insurance - known as your annual premium - can vary. A premium is the dollar amount that you pay for an insurance policy each year. There are many factors that can impact the amount of premium that insurers charge, such as what you’re insuring, the policy you’ve chosen and external costs, like levies and taxes set by the government. For our customers, some of the factors that influence the cost of your insurance are the agreed value you set when you take out your policy, the size of your motorcycles engine, the year of manufacture, driver details, such as date of birth and claims history, and the level of cover you choose.
What about the modifications and customisations I've made to my motorcycle?
If a motorcycle is significantly different to the factory standard - for example, if you've added accessories or modifications - we may not be able to offer cover. When you take out a quote, you'll be asked if your motorcycle has any aftermarket accessories or modifications. This is when you can let us know about any customisation you've made to the motorcycle and find out whether it affects your cover. You can take out a quote online or get in touch with us. Our team will be happy to help answer your questions.
What about vintage and classic motorcycles?
Subject to certain criteria, we're able to offer cover for pre-1980 motorcycles under our Classic Vehicle Insurance Policy. Older motorcycles that don't meet that criteria can still be insured under our standard motorcycle policy. If you’d like a quote to insure your vintage or classic motorcycle, give us a call on 0800 500 231.
Is my motorcycle helmet covered by insurance?
Our Comprehensive Motorcycle Insurance Policy covers your helmet for the New Zealand retail price of the nearest equivalent helmet if it gets damaged or stolen.
What if someone else crashes into me?
If you're in an accident that wasn't your fault and you can identify whose fault it was and provide their details, you may not have to pay any excess.
Do you insure dual-sport motorcycles or dirt bikes?
Dual-sport motorcycles (also known as all-road and dual-purpose) are eligible for on-road cover. Our Contents Insurance Policy provides cover of up to $5,000 for quad bikes, ATVs, dirt bikes and go-carts that are only used off road.
Tips for motorcycle storage:
If you have to keep your motorcycle outdoors, look for a sheltered area such as a car port and consider using a cover to protect it from the elements.
If you’re not able to park your motorcycle on concrete, carefully consider the placement of your kick stand. You don’t want it to sink into soggy ground and fall over.
Wherever you park your motorcycle, a bit of common sense may help prevent theft: a disc lock and/or alarm and a cover to conceal it may make it less attractive to thieves.
Any questions?
Now’s a great time to review your insurance. We recommend checking your details are up to date and ensuring the policy and cover you’ve chosen is right for you and your insurance needs.
If you have any questions about your insurance, need to update your AA Insurance policies or would like a quote, don’t hesitate to contact us. You can find our opening hours and ways to get in touch with us on our contact page.
This blog provides general information only and is not intended to be a recommendation or personalised financial advice. Excesses, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply to AA Insurance Limited’s policies. Please check the policy wording for details of cover. The provision of cover is subject to the underwriting criteria that apply at the time.
