Motorcycle Season Is Here: Are You and Your Insurance Ready for the Ride?

As temperatures rise and the days get longer, motorcycle enthusiasts across Ohio are pulling their bikes out of storage and preparing for another season on the open road. Whether you’re cruising through the Metroparks, heading to the lake, or taking a weekend trip through Amish Country, summer is the perfect time to enjoy the freedom that comes with riding.

Before you hit the road, however, it’s important to make sure both your motorcycle and your insurance coverage are ready for the season ahead.

Start with a Preseason Motorcycle Inspection

After months of storage, every motorcycle should undergo a thorough inspection before its first ride.

A few key items to check include:

• Tire pressure and tread depth
• Battery condition and charge level
• Brake pads and brake fluid
• Oil and other fluid levels
• Headlights, taillights, and turn signals
• Chain or belt condition and tension
• Registration and license plate status

A quick inspection can help prevent breakdowns and reduce the likelihood of an accident during the riding season.

Understanding Motorcycle Insurance Coverage

Many riders assume their motorcycle policy covers everything, only to discover coverage gaps after a loss occurs. Understanding your policy before an accident happens can save significant frustration later.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage protects you if you cause bodily injury or property damage to someone else. Ohio requires liability insurance, but state minimum limits may not provide enough protection in a serious accident.

Many riders choose higher liability limits to better protect their assets and future earnings.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage pays to repair or replace your motorcycle if it is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

If your motorcycle is financed, your lender will typically require this coverage.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage protects against losses that are not caused by a collision, including:

• Theft
• Vandalism
• Fire
• Falling objects
• Weather related damage
• Animal collisions

Motorcycles can be attractive targets for theft, making comprehensive coverage an important consideration.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Unfortunately, not every driver carries adequate insurance.

This coverage can help protect you if you are injured by a driver who has little or no insurance. Medical expenses can add up quickly following a motorcycle accident, making this one of the most valuable coverages available.

Accessory and Custom Equipment Coverage

Have you invested in custom paint, upgraded wheels, chrome accessories, audio systems, or performance modifications?

Many standard policies provide limited coverage for aftermarket equipment. Additional coverage may be needed to fully protect those investments.

Consider an Umbrella Policy

Many riders do not realize that a personal umbrella policy may provide additional liability protection over their motorcycle policy.

If you own a home, have savings, investments, or a business, an umbrella policy can provide an extra layer of protection in the event of a severe accident.

Not every umbrella policy automatically covers motorcycles, so it is important to review this with your insurance advisor.

Safety Gear Matters

Insurance helps protect your finances, but proper riding gear helps protect you.

Every rider should consider:

• DOT approved helmet
• Riding jacket with armor protection
• Gloves
• Riding boots
• Eye protection
• Reflective gear for increased visibility

The right gear can significantly reduce injuries if an accident occurs.

Review Your Coverage Before Summer Begins

Motorcycle insurance is not a one size fits all policy. Coverage needs can vary depending on:

• The type of motorcycle you own
• How often you ride
• Whether you ride long distance
• Customizations and accessories
• Your personal assets and liability exposure

Before the riding season gets into full swing, take a few minutes to review your current policy and make sure it still meets your needs.

At Navigate Risk Advisors, we help riders understand their coverage options and identify potential gaps before a claim occurs. Our goal is to help you enjoy the ride with confidence, knowing you have the protection you need when it matters most.

Have questions about your motorcycle insurance? Contact our team today for a coverage review and let us help you navigate the road ahead.