What is multi-bike insurance?

This guide is for informational purposes only. We do not currently offer multi-bike insurance at MoneySuperMarket.

Key takeaways

• Multi-bike insurance consolidates all your motorbikes under one policy with a single premium payment, simplifying administration and renewal tracking

• Multi-bike policies usually cover only one bike on the road at a time, with others covered for fire, theft, and accidental damage while parked

• Insurers may limit the amount of bikes under one policy

What is multi-bike insurance?

Multi-bike insurance is a specialised policy designed for individuals who own several motorbikes. It’s useful if:

• You're a collector of classic bikes

• An enthusiast with different models for different occasions

It allows you to consolidate all your bikes under one policy with a single premium payment, which can be useful when it comes to administration and keeping track of renewal dates.

Rather than juggling separate policies for each motorbike, multi-bike insurance streamlines the process and offers the same cover you would expect from a single bike policy, but for all your motorcycles.

How many motorbikes can I insure with a multi-bike policy?

Insurance providers typically cover two to four motorbikes on a multi-bike policy. However, some specialist providers may cover six motorbikes or more.

How does multi-bike insurance work?

Insurance providers need to know how many miles you’re likely to ride on each motorbike and the value of each bike.

They will then calculate your multi-bike insurance policy based on the bike which is most costly for them to insure (often known as the ‘lead bike’), plus a flat fee for additional bikes or an additional premium based on the value of the other bikes.

Policies can be tailored to fit the various types of bikes you own, from classic to super bikes, and from scooters to mopeds.

However, it's important to note that multi-bike policies usually cover only one bike on the road at a time, with the others being covered for fire, theft, and accidental damage while parked. Also, insurers may limit the number of bikes you can include under a single policy.

Top tip: You’ll earn a no-claims bonus (also referred to as a no-claims discount) with a multi-bike insurance policy but how it works can vary by provider. Some insurers may only apply a NCB to your main motorbike, others may apply it to all your motorcycles. If you make a claim on any motorcycle covered under the policy it may affect your NCB.

Did you know?

Almost two-thirds (61 per cent) of motorbike trips in England are for commuting purposes, according to the National Travel Survey.

What type of multi-bike insurance can I get?

Just like standard motorbike policies, multi-bike insurance comes in different levels of cover:

• Third-party only: This is the most basic level of cover, taking care of any damage to third parties and their property, but not covering your own motorbikes

• Third-party, fire, and theft: This option includes the basic third-party cover and also protects against theft, fire damage, or destruction of your motorbikes

• Fully comprehensive: The most extensive option, fully comprehensive insurance covers third-party, fire, and theft, as well as any damage to your motorbikes or injuries to you, even if you're at fault

What is included with multi-bike insurance?

The specifics of what multi-bike insurance covers will depend on the policy you choose, but comprehensive cover might include:

• Repairs: Covering the costs for bike repairs after an accident

• Replacement: Providing compensation if your bike is lost, stolen, or destroyed

• Breakdown cover: Handling costs for towing and repairs, though extra cover might be needed for travel in Europe

• Legal expenses cover: Assisting with legal costs if you cause injury to others

• Riding other bikes: Offering cover when you're riding a motorcycle that isn't yours, typically limited to third party

• 24-hour advice: Giving you access to insurer advice at any time

• Lock and key cover: Compensating you for new locks and keys if yours are stolen or lost

• Gear and equipment: Protecting your investment in helmets, leathers, and other riding gear

What optional extras can I get with multi-bike insurance?

Most insurance providers offer add-ons that you can enhance your cover. If you have a comprehensive policy some of these may already be included as standard so check you policy documents carefully:

• Pillion cover: Covers you for riding with passengers

• Legal protection: Covers the cost of legal fees from a motorbike incident or insurance claim

• Breakdown cover: Access to roadside assistance should your bike break down

• Personal accident cover: Pays out a lump sum in compensation if you’re injured or killed as a result of a motorbike incident and a claim can’t be made from a third party

• Helmet and leathers cover: Extra cover if your helmet or riding leathers are damaged, lost or stolen

How much does a multi-bike insurance policy cost?

When it comes to the price of multi-bike insurance, several factors come into play:

• The number and type of bikes you're insuring

• The age of the rider, with younger riders often facing higher premiums

• Your location, as high traffic or high crime areas can increase the cost

• How you store your bikes, with secure garaging potentially lowering premiums

• Your claim history, where a history of claims can indicate a higher risk

• The intended usage of your bikes, as higher mileage or work-related use can raise the cost

• The security features you have in place

• Any modifications to your bikes, especially performance enhancements

It's worth noting that more expensive makes and models are likely to be more desirable to thieves, while more powerful motorbikes might be at higher risk of being involved in an accident.

Therefore, the price and performance of the bikes on your policy can also be a major factor in your premium price. Read our guide to motorcycle insurance groups to learn more about different types of motorbike and how they may affect your insurance.

Can I take out multi-vehicle insurance instead of multi-bike insurance?

Yes, some insurance providers will let you add motorcycles to a multi-car insurance or multi-vehicle insurance policy but not all do so it’s important to shop around. It may still work out cheaper to have separate policies.

How can I get the best deal for my motorbike insurance?

While MoneySuperMarket does not offer quotes for multi-bike insurance directly, we do provide standard motorbike insurance quotes.

By comparing policies, you can ensure that you're getting the right level of cover at a price that makes sense for you. It's crucial to strike a balance between being adequately covered and not overpaying for insurance you don't need.

When shopping around, consider the value of your bikes, how often you ride them, and what kind of cover will give you peace of mind. Always read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions of your policy to avoid any surprises in the event of a claim.