California’s finest motorcycle insurance companies
We compared five of the most popular motorcycle insurance providers in California, considering factors such as pricing, policy options, and customer service. We offer a top pick that is suitable for the majority of motorcycle riders, as well as other options for those with more specialized insurance needs.
Most suitable for the majority of people: Geico
Geico is the best motorcycle insurance carrier for California motorcyclists, according to our analysis. Geico’s riders benefit from cheap rates, comprehensive coverage options, and a well-regarded customer support team.
Geico’s average statewide pricing was $788 – 42% less than the typical annual premium we discovered. In addition, Geico has a favorable complaint index of 0.92. (NAIC). This indicates that the company has received fewer complaints than expected for a business of its size.
As one of the largest insurers in California, Geico is also the finest option for bundling with other types of insurance. For example, by combining your auto and motorcycle insurance with the same insurer, you can often save money on both while simplifying the monthly bill payments.
The primary disadvantage of Geico is that it lacks specialty coverage alternatives, which may deter you if you require specialized coverage. In addition, while Geico does offer optional coverage for accessories and roadside assistance, items such as vehicle OEM parts and travel interruption are not included.
Best for motorcycle-only coverage: Markel
Markel insurance is our top recommendation for motorcycle owners who value motorcycle-specific coverage over bundling their insurance policies – for example, if they do not possess a car. It has the lowest total motorcycle-only rate in the state, at $746 per year, 46 percent cheaper than the state average.
Additionally, Markel offers an excellent selection of supplemental motorbike coverages, including coverage for accessories and mechanical breakdown. When these are not required for motorcycle riding in California, they may provide you with additional peace of mind while riding.
Markel is a specialist insurer, which means it does not provide a standard vehicle or homeowner’s insurance. As a result, if you own a car, you will need to purchase a separate policy to protect it, and you will be unable to take advantage of a bundle discount.
Best for touring: Esurance
Esurance is a good option for motorcycle riders who use their bikes for traveling. It has several coverages that should appeal to cross-country motorcycle riders, as well as competitive insurance costs.
Esurance, for example, offers “travel interruption coverage.” So, if you were involved in the accident, or the bike breaks down far from home, Esurance will cover the cost of $100 in the hotel, $50 in alternate transportation, and $50 in food every day until you are back on the road. Additionally, Esurance offers supplemental coverage for customized equipment such as racks, luggage, and GPS devices.
Although Esurance did not offer the lowest motorcycle insurance rates for our sample rider, their average annual premium of $955 was still 30% less than the statewide average.
The best-reviewed California motorcycle insurers
When choosing a motorbike insurance company, price is critical, but so is service quality. Therefore, when we analyze an insurance business, we use two essential metrics to determine its level of service: the NAIC’s complaint index and the company’s A.M. Best financial stability rating.
The best financial stability rating is indeed an overall indicator of a company’s financial strength. A business with a higher A.M. Best rating is more likely to pay claims, even in the face of major calamities and economic downturns.
