If you're an avid motorcyclist, even if you're not riding your own bike, you'll need to add the bike to your policy for it to be covered. Whether you're taking a weekend trip on someone else's motorcycle or just trying out a different model, there's motorcycle insurance that can provide coverage. You can also purchase a regular motorcycle insurance policy and cancel it when you no longer need it. However, if you don't abide by the terms of your motorcycle insurance policy, your insurer could deny a claim, leaving you to cover the cost of any damage.
In most states, motorcyclists are required to have at least basic insurance coverage and demonstrate financial responsibility in the event of an accident. This will result in an insurance interruption if you ride a regular motorcycle and will likely lead to higher rates when you buy a new policy. Generally speaking, only comprehensive motorcycle insurance policies will cover you to ride other bikes, with the minimum legal insurance only covering third parties. Check with your DMV, but most states allow you to store a motorcycle without having it insured; just make sure you have a valid policy before taking your bike out again in the spring. You'll also experience an interruption in coverage when you're not insured and, as a result, may have higher premiums when you buy insurance again.
Like driver insurance, some motorcycle insurance policies will only cover you when you drive your own vehicle, but there are other types of bike insurance that offer more flexibility. If you end up with an IN10 guarantee, your current provider could also deny you insurance, making it difficult and expensive to get insurance in the future. These policies can cost about the same as an annual policy since insurers expect you to take out insurance during your most active driving period. When riding a borrowed bike, it's important to make sure that your motorcycle insurance covers the bike in question. If not, it's best to purchase a separate policy or add the bike to your existing policy.
This way, if something happens while riding the borrowed bike, you won't be left with costly repairs or medical bills. It's also important to check with your state's DMV for any additional requirements for riding a borrowed bike.
