How to insure your motorbike

With the increase in attention of motorbikes (thanks to the likes of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman), more and more people are considering buying a motorbike for use as their main mode of transport. While buying a motorbike may be a hassle in itself, getting insurance for it is another thing to worry about. However, there are certain factors insurance companies use to see if you qualify for their insurance policies and also to calculate your premium rates.

One of the first things they consider is you, the driver. The most common issues are your age, where you live, where you work and your driving history. Age is considered because the older you are, the lower the premium rates would be. However, this rule would be null and void if you're a beginner in the world of motorcycling. Where you live and work is also an issue in terms of where you would park your motorbike when it's not in use. Is it in a secure and well-lit area or parked beside a kerb on an open road? If it's possible to store in a garage, or even a shed, do it. The idea is behind this is to lower the level of danger your vehicle might come into contact with when you're not using it. The mileage also counts - low mileage equals lower rates.

Your driving history will acknowledge any past accidents, regardless of what type of vehicle you've driven in the past, while a clean licence would also mean lower premium rates. An additional factor is the bike itself. The common rule is that the newer the bike, the more you would have to pay for it.

However, there are also things you can do yourself to ensure you get the best possible policy for your motorbike.

The main objective is to look around the various companies which offer insurance to motorcyclists. Take a look through the Yellow Pages or go online to find motorcycle insurance comparison websites. Alternatively, simply ask around for advice with like minded individuals who own motorbikes themselves as they would have gone through the same process.

Above all, the most important thing is not to lie when it comes to applying for your motorbike insurance policy. Be honest and concise with your answers, even if it means admitting that you park your newly purchased motorcycle in front of your house, with no alarm, at night - if you don't then you run the risk of getting your claim rejected for "non disclosure". By taking the time to researching what type of companies and policies are out there, the task of getting your motorbike insured is less daunting and as a result, you'll be able to save on your premiums whilst getting a fantastic policy.

Andrew Regan is a freelance online journalist