When people think of motor cycles and motor cyclists, in most cases, the first scenario that they will conjure in their minds, is some long haired, greasy and sweaty, leather clad social misfit that uses the power of their motor bike to disguise some major shortfalls in their personality. The sad fact that there was, and still are, thousands of motor bike riders who fit that description.

However they are not the major reasons why motorcycle insurance is considered high risk.

The truth is that if there is any form of transportation that is inherently dangerous it is motor cycling. The elements of risk and excitement that propelling a motor cycle at high speed is an attraction that many people find irresistible. Unfortunately motor cycling also draws an element of highly irresponsible people who cause accidents and injuries, mostly to themselves, and bring a bad name to motor cycling.

Yet for each and every one of these people, there are probably many more that enjoy motor cycling as a hobby, a sport or a means to get from point A to point B quickly and a relatively low cost. These people take their motor cycling seriously and are prepared to make every effort to keep their insurance premiums within a reasonable cost zone.

Insurance companies, to their eternal credit, are not inclined to “tar motor cyclists with the same brush”. Instead they look upon the task of insuring every rider individually. Those who display responsibility will find that the costs of their premiums do not necessarily go through the roof.

Some of the less responsible motor cycle riders think that once they have passed their test and received their licence, then they are free to become king of the road. In truth they are just beginning their journey and any way that they can gain extra experience will not only help them to become better and safer drivers, but also reduce their premiums.

Insurance companies look very favorably on novice motor cycle drivers that take part in approved rider training courses. Those who display the maturity and insight to attend such courses, generally merit a discount when it comes to calculating their insurance premium.

Insurance companies will also have access to potential client’s riding history and anyone arriving with a less than favorable record will be looked upon as an accident waiting to happen. Insurance companies are very reluctant to insure these categories of drivers, and may even refuse to issue a quote. If they do, it will reflect their fears that the driver will be liable to continue along the same track. Until they fall off.

As far as insuring the motorcycle itself, there are also problems involved that can push up the premiums. Motor cycles are easy to steel, and the chances are that the insurance company will insists that the owner equip their bike with some kind of tracking device that will make the vehicle easier to trace.

Summing up, motorcycle insurance need not be expensive. If an owner places himself in a high risk category, they will pay for the privilege. If, on the other hand, they act with responsibility then their premiums for motorcycle insurance will start to come down.