What happens if I don't declare a mod?

Your insurer can reduce a payout, refuse a claim or cancel the policy, leaving you to cover the costs yourself.

Do security devices really cut my premium?

They often can. Approved alarms, immobilisers and trackers reduce theft risk, which many insurers take into account.

Should I declare mods made by the previous owner?

Yes. You insure the bike as it is now, so any existing modifications should be declared regardless of who fitted them.

Motorbike

Do I need to declare modifications on my motorbike?

Yes. Motorbike modifications should be declared to your insurer or a claim could be refused. Here is which mods matter and how they affect cover.

Yes. Any modification that changes your bike from its standard factory specification should be declared. If it is not, your insurer could refuse a claim or cancel your policy.

Why insurers need to know

Insurers price cover on the bike's risk: how fast it is, how likely it is to be stolen and how much it costs to repair. A modification can change any of those, so they need to know about changes to performance, appearance or security, even if they were fitted by a previous owner.

Which modifications matter

Performance mods such as aftermarket exhausts, tuning kits or big-bore conversions usually raise your premium.
Cosmetic changes like custom paint, fairings or wheels can affect repair and theft costs.
Security upgrades such as approved alarms, immobilisers or ground anchors may lower your premium.

What happens if you don't declare

Failing to declare a modification, even through an honest oversight, can leave you without cover when you need it most. Insurers may reduce a payout, refuse a claim or cancel the policy.

Buying a used bike

When you buy a second-hand bike, check it against the standard specification for the model. Ask the seller what has been changed and keep any receipts or paperwork. You insure the bike as it is now, not as it left the factory.

Getting quotes

Declare everything up front so the cover matches your bike. With Kompare, you fill in a short form and a specialist FCA-authorised broker from our panel contacts you about motorbike insurance quotes. If you have a heavily modified car or van, see our modified vehicle insurance page.