Why can a sports bike cost more to insure than a car?

High performance, a higher accident risk and expensive repairs can all push sports bike premiums above those of an ordinary family car.

Does no-claims experience transfer between bike and car?

Not usually. Most insurers keep motorbike and car no-claims bonuses separate, though a few may take your wider history into account.

Does third party motorbike cover always cost the least?

Not necessarily. As with cars, third party only can cost more than comprehensive, so it is worth getting quotes for every level.

Motorbike

Is motorbike insurance cheaper than car insurance?

Motorbike insurance can cost less than car insurance for some riders and more for others. The bike, the rider and how it is used all affect the price.

It depends. For some riders motorbike insurance costs less than car insurance, but for others, especially on powerful bikes, it can cost more. The bike, the rider and how it is used all matter.

What decides which costs more

There is no fixed rule, because insurers price both on risk. A small commuter bike may cost less to insure than a family car, while a high-performance sports bike can cost considerably more.

Engine size and power heavily influence the price, with larger, faster bikes attracting higher premiums.
Rider age and experience matter, as newer or younger riders typically pay more.
How and where you ride affects cost, including annual mileage, storage and whether the bike is used for commuting or leisure.

Theft and repair costs

Motorbikes can be easier to steal than cars, so security and where the bike is kept overnight carry a lot of weight. Repair costs for sports bikes, with fairings and specialist parts, can also be high.

No-claims bonuses

Car and motorbike no-claims bonuses are usually kept separate, so years without a claim on a car policy will not normally reduce a motorbike premium, and the other way round.

How to find out

Because so many factors are involved, the only reliable way to know is to get quotes for your exact bike and circumstances rather than assume one is always cheaper. With Kompare, you fill in a short form and a specialist FCA-authorised broker from our panel contacts you about motorbike insurance quotes. Kompare doesn't currently offer quotes for car insurance.