Motorcycle insurance provides financial protection in the event of a motorcycle accident, loss, theft or damage. In this post, we gathered the answers to some of the most common two-wheeled queries. We hope this motorcycle insurance Q&A helps you make informed choices about coverage.
Do You Need Motorcycle Insurance?
Yes. Under Ontario’s Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act, all motorcycles and other motor vehicles must carry insurance to be driven on public roads. The only exception is if the vehicle is used exclusively on private property. Moreover, motorcycle insurance is mandatory in Ontario if you’re using your bike off private property. This will be the case for most, if not all, riders.
Which Two-Wheel Vehicles Need Motorcycle Coverage in Ontario?
The Insurance Bureau of Canada mandates that all motorcycles, mopeds, motor-scooters and motor-assisted bicycles must have insurance coverage. That is, unless you only drive them exclusively on private property. Any road-legal motorized vehicle requires insurance to be operated on public roads. The only exception is for e-bikes that meet Ontario’s legal definition (maximum 32 km/h, 500W motor, working pedals).
How Much Does Motorcycle Coverage Cost in Ontario?
The average cost of motorcycle insurance in Ontario ranges from $1,500 to $3,500. An M1 rider living in downtown Toronto will pay nearly $3,800 in premiums; however, with an M2 license, that insurance can be cut in half.
Do I Need a Motorcycle Licence to Get Insurance?
Yes. To insure and ride a motorcycle in Ontario, you need a valid motorcycle licence (M1, M2, or M).
Do I Need Insurance for my Scooter or Moped?
Yes, if they are road-legal and meet Ontario’s definition of a motor vehicle. Gas-powered scooters, mopeds, and most Vespas fall into this category and must be insured. Insurance for any scooter, whether it’s a Vespa or Honda, requires motorcycle insurance. However, it is much cheaper than traditional motorcycle insurance.
Do I Need Motorcycle Coverage for an E-bike?
No, there is no requirement for E-bike riders to get insurance. However, it is a good idea to get coverage for damage to your electric bike, as well as third-party liability and personal injury coverage.
Can I Get Seasonal Motorcycle Insurance in Ontario?
Yes, however, most motorcycle insurance policies in Ontario are already adjusted for seasonal use. This is because insurers typically do not expect you to ride your bike during the winter months. If you wish to cancel your policy early, please note that you may not be eligible for a refund. Additionally, gaps in coverage can lead to higher rates in the future.
Can I Bundle My Insurance With Other Policies?
Yes, most motorcycle insurance companies offer several bundle options to allow for greater savings. Firstly, there are multi-vehicle policies that allow you to bundle your car and motorcycle together for a discount. Additionally, owning more than one bike can result in savings by bundling them together.
Additionally, bundling home and motorcycle insurance is also possible – ensure that your home insurance provider offers motorcycle coverage as an option. If not, ask your isure broker if your motorcycle insurance company also offers home insurance. Finally, if you bundle your car insurance on top of your motorcycle and home policies, you can qualify for even cheaper motorcycle insurance.
Can I Cancel My Insurance in the Winter?
It is not recommended to cancel your policy in the winter. Motorcycle premiums are based on the riding season. Since premiums are already adjusted for the riding season, cancelling usually doesn’t result in refunds. You also risk losing continuous coverage history, which insurers consider when setting rates. It’s also essential to ensure it has protection while stored over the winter months.
If I Own a Restricted-Speed Motorcycle, Am I Still Required to Have Insurance?
Yes, you are still required to have motorcycle insurance. Restricted-speed motorcycles and mopeds are subject to the same insurance and licensing requirements as standard motorcycles in Ontario.
Will my Aftermarket Add-Ons Be Covered by my Insurance Policy If I Customize?
Yes. According to Rates.ca, if you customize your motorcycle, your provider can offer you coverage for aftermarket parts and accessories. You can also purchase additional coverage if your existing policy limits are too low for your upgrades. Here are the aftermarket parts and accessories that insurers typically cover:
- Sidecars and trailers
- Custom paint
- Helmets
- Saddlebags/on-bike storage
- Exhaust/muffler modifications
- Custom lighting
- Windshields
- Hand/foot controls
- Other items not sold by the manufacturer
Can I Drive My Off-Road Motorcycle On the Road Without Insurance?
In Ontario, you cannot drive an off-road motorcycle on the road without having motorcycle insurance. You must have at least standard coverage and an M2 license to drive an off-road motorcycle on the road.
How Do I File a Motorcycle Claim?
The process for filing a motorcycle insurance claim is similar to filing a car insurance claim. For a complete run-down of the claims process, click here.
Are Aftermarket Add-Ons Covered by Insurance?
Some are, but coverage is limited. Most motorcycle insurance policies include a small allowance for accessories (often $1,000–$3,000). If you’ve invested in custom paint, saddlebags, lighting, or exhaust upgrades, you may need to purchase extra coverage.
Note: helmets are typically covered under your home/tenant insurance, not your motorcycle policy.
Can My Motorcycle Coverage Extend to Include a Moped or Scooter?
Trying to think of ways to save some money on gas for short trips around town? If you are considering purchasing a moped or scooter, you will also need coverage. Mopeds and scooters, whether electric- or gasoline-powered, can be insured on a motorcycle policy. All the same discounts and options apply.
Will the Traffic Tickets I Received When Driving My Car Impact My Motorcycle Premium?
Yes, all traffic tickets on your driver’s licence record are considered when determining your insurance premium. Tickets, collisions, or suspensions from driving a car will impact your motorcycle premiums.
Do I Need Separate Insurance for My Car if I Own a Motorcycle?
Yes, each vehicle must have its own liability insurance policy to be legally operated on the road.
In Ontario, motorcycle insurance is not optional if you’re riding on public roads. Costs vary, but there are ways to save through bundling, maintaining a clean driving record, and choosing the right level of coverage for your riding habits. If you have questions about your motorcycle’s coverage, contact us today.
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