TL;DR: The cheapest motorcycles to insure are typically smaller-engine standards, cruisers, and dual-sports like the Honda Rebel 300/500, Royal Enfield Himalayan, and Honda CB500F. Sport bikes cost significantly more to insure than standards and cruisers, while displacement and rider experience heavily influence premiums. Smart riders can save hundreds annually by choosing insurance-friendly models and comparing quotes from multiple providers.
Let's be honest — sticker shock doesn't end when you roll your new bike off the lot. Insurance can feel like another monthly payment that rivals your bike loan itself. But here's the thing: some motorcycles are naturally easier on your wallet when it comes to coverage costs.
Whether you're a weekend warrior looking to maximize your riding budget or a daily commuter seeking practical transportation, the right bike choice can save you serious money on insurance premiums. We've done the homework so you can focus on the fun stuff — actually riding.
Engine size, bike type, and safety features are among the key factors insurance companies typically consider. Different motorcycle categories are often treated differently by insurance providers, with some types generally receiving more favorable rates than others.
Insurance companies evaluate several key factors when setting rates:
Engine Displacement: Engine size is typically a consideration in insurance pricing. Smaller engines often qualify for lower premiums, though individual circumstances vary.
Bike Classification: How insurers categorize your motorcycle can significantly impact your rates. The same engine in different styling packages may be classified differently for insurance purposes.
Safety Features: Modern motorcycles with ABS, traction control, and other safety technology may qualify for discounts with some insurers.
Theft Risk: Models that are commonly targeted for theft or have easily removable valuable parts may face higher premiums. Less common models or those with built-in security features may be viewed more favorably.
The average cost of motorcycle insurance in the U.S. is $33 per month, or $399 per year. According to recent industry analysis, that's just the starting point — your actual costs depend heavily on your bike choice, age, location, and riding record.
Here's the reality check: full coverage motorcycle insurance costs vary dramatically, with massive variation based on what you ride and where you live.
Age Makes a Huge Difference: Younger riders pay significantly more due to inexperience and higher accident rates, while older riders typically enjoy lower premiums thanks to experience and longer no-claims histories.
Location Matters: Rural areas with lower crime and accident rates typically offer much more affordable motorcycle insurance than urban areas. States with shorter riding seasons due to cold winters often have lower premiums since there's less time on the road.
The Honda Rebel series is frequently mentioned among motorcycles that tend to receive favorable insurance rates, largely due to its design characteristics and target market.
Factors That May Help With Insurance:
Real-World Insurance Impact: Honda Rebel owners often report pleasant surprises with their insurance quotes compared to other motorcycle types.
The Royal Enfield Himalayan has gained attention as a budget-friendly adventure bike that often receives favorable treatment from insurance companies.
Factors That May Help With Insurance:
Real-World Insurance Impact: Himalayan owners often discover significant rate variations between insurance companies, highlighting the value of comparison shopping for this model.
The Honda CB500F is often mentioned favorably in insurance discussions, particularly when compared to its faired counterpart.
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The Kawasaki Versys often appears on lists of insurance-friendly motorcycles in the adventure-touring category.
Factors That May Help With Insurance:
The Honda CB300F offers an interesting case study in how motorcycle classification can affect insurance rates.
Factors That May Help With Insurance:
The Suzuki DR-Z400SM represents an alternative option that may appeal to budget-conscious riders.
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While still sport bikes, the smaller Ninjas may offer more reasonable insurance costs than their larger siblings. These models are particularly popular with new riders looking for their first bike, as they offer sport bike styling without the intimidating power of larger machines.
Factors That May Help With Insurance:
Real-World Insurance Impact: Ninja 300/400 owners find that liability-only coverage is very affordable, while full coverage remains reasonable compared to larger sport bikes.
The Honda NC700X represents an interesting approach to motorcycle design that may appeal to insurance companies.
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While sport bikes often face higher insurance costs, the CBR300R's characteristics may help moderate those costs.
Factors That May Help With Insurance:
Real-World Insurance Impact: CBR300R riders often find substantial rate differences between insurance companies, making comparison shopping particularly valuable for this model.
The MT-03 offers an example of how styling can influence insurance classification.
Factors That May Help With Insurance:
Understanding which motorcycle categories insurance companies often view as higher risk can help guide your decision-making process.
Categories That May Face Higher Premiums:
These motorcycles may command higher premiums due to factors like performance capabilities, higher repair costs, replacement values, and risk profiles associated with their typical usage.
Your age dramatically impacts what you'll pay, regardless of which bike you choose. Younger riders face significantly higher premiums than experienced riders due to statistical risk factors.
Age-Based Rate Progression:
The good news? Many insurers offer "Good Rider" discounts that can significantly reduce rates after 12 months of accident-free riding.
Finding affordable motorcycle insurance while maintaining quality coverage requires careful research and comparison. According to comprehensive insurance cost analysis, the cheapest option isn't always the best choice — you want reliable service when you need it most.
Competitive Rates with Quality Service
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Comparison shopping and qualifying for discounts are key strategies savvy riders use to reduce their premiums:
Insurance companies can vary significantly in their pricing for the same coverage, potentially creating substantial savings opportunities. Getting quotes from multiple companies helps ensure you're getting competitive rates.
Many insurers offer discounts for completing MSF or similar safety courses. These courses demonstrate your commitment to safe riding practices.
Combining motorcycle insurance with auto or home coverage often provides savings on premiums. This approach also simplifies your insurance management.
Raising your deductible can reduce annual premium costs. Just ensure you can comfortably afford the higher deductible if you need to file a claim.
Audible alarms, GPS tracking, and secure parking can qualify for discounts. These investments often provide value through reduced premiums.
Choosing the right motorcycle doesn't have to break your insurance budget. Whether you're eyeing a practical Honda Rebel or an adventurous Royal Enfield Himalayan, smart riders know that the best bike is one you can afford to insure properly.
Don't let insurance costs keep you off the road. At Roamly, we understand that your bike isn't just transportation — it's freedom on two wheels. Our motorcycle insurance coverage is designed by riders, for riders, with flexible options that actually make sense for how you ride.
Ready to ride smart and save smart? Let's get you covered.
Roamly Insurance Group, LLC ("Roamly") is a licensed general agent for affiliated and non-affiliated insurance companies. Roamly is licensed as an agency in all states in which products are offered. Availability and qualification for coverage, terms, rates, and discounts may vary by jurisdiction. We do not in any way imply that the materials on the site or products are available in jurisdictions in which we are not licensed to do business or that we are soliciting business in any such jurisdiction. Coverage under your insurance policy is subject to the terms and conditions of that policy and is ultimately the decision of the buyer.
Policies provided by Roamly are underwritten by Spinnaker Insurance Company, Progressive Insurance Company, Safeco Insurance, Foremost Insurance Company, National General Insurance, Allstate Insurance Company, Mobilitas Insurance Company, Lyndon Southern Insurance Company and others.