Motorcycle insurance: benefits and cover
Comparis explains what to bear in mind when choosing motorcycle insurance, and what your insurance will pay out in the event of a claim.
What basic cover is available with motorcycle insurance?
When you buy a motorcycle, you also need to take out a suitable insurance policy. Here, you can find important information about third-party liability, partial casco and full casco insurance for motorcycles.
Add-ons for motorcycle insurance
In addition to the basic cover, there are additional modules that you can choose depending on the insurance you have:
Gross negligence: covers damage even in the event of serious driving errors.
Bonus protection: preserves your premium discount after a claim.
Damaged while parked: covers damage to the motorcycle caused by third parties while parked.
Safety clothing: insurance for your helmet, jacket and protective clothing.
First-party loss: protection in the event of damage to your own property (e.g. your own car) caused by the motorcycle.
Personal belongings: covers luggage, bags and personal items carried on the motorcycle.
Assistance/mobility: organises breakdown assistance and mobility solutions.
Fair value supplement: covers the difference between the purchase price and the payout in the event of a total loss.
Extended glass breakage: covers damage to headlights, mirrors and other glass surfaces.
Suspension waiver: waiver of the option to deposit the number plates during the winter months – often associated with a lower annual premium.
Good to know: depending on the provider, there are even more options and the names may differ slightly.
Frequently asked questions about motorcycle insurance benefits and cover
In Switzerland, third-party liability insurance is a legal requirement for owners of motorcycles. It covers any damage you cause to other people and their property. Whether partial or full casco insurance is also worthwhile for you depends on a range of factors, including the age and value of your motorcycle. Find out which cover is right for you here.
You should choose a coinsurance that you can easily pay yourself in the event of a damage event. Although a higher coinsurance reduces the premium, it also means a higher personal contribution in the event of damage. A general rule of thumb is:
For expensive or new motorcycles, a lower coinsurance is usually worthwhile.
For older vehicles, a higher coinsurance often makes sense if you want to cover the costs of minor damage yourself.
Coinsurances in motorcycle liability insurance
Many insurers use the following coinsurance amounts as a benchmark for motorcycle liability insurance:
(under 25) often have a higher coinsurance, e.g. 1,000 francs.
New drivers (over 25, but with a driving licence for less than two years): usually 500 francs.
Experienced drivers (over 25 years old and at least two years' driving experience): often no coinsurance.
Coinsurances in motorcycle casco insurance
In partial or full casco insurance, the coinsurance varies depending on the insurer, driver profile, vehicle and cover. You can find the exact amount in the policy.
The sum insured determines the maximum amount of cover in the event of a claim. It varies depending on the type of insurance and the module.
Liability
In Switzerland, the legal minimum coverage of compulsory liability insurance is usually at least 5 million francs per accident event.
Full casco and partial casco
The maximum compensation is usually the purchase price of the motorcycle plus accessories. Lower sums often apply to additional cover, such as protective clothing.
Further information on motorcycle insurance and cover
In this article, you’ll learn about the different types of cover and who would benefit from taking them out.
