In this article, we’ll discuss what custom motorcycles are as well their different types, and why you should get a custom chopper motorcycle.

What Are Custom Motorcycles?

In short, a chopper is a modified motorcycle that has been modified from its original design. More specifically, people customi to look or perform entirely different than its factory origins. Not only does customization change its appearance, but it also improves functionality. On top of all that, a custom American chopper turns heads!

Custom bikes may be changed to:

• Use radical engines
• Look tough, cool, or glitzy
• Boast complex paint jobs
• Include artistic approaches
• Have highly polished metals

Types of Chopper Bikes

Bobber. The original type of custom motorcycle, bobbers are lighter and need minimum maintenance because they were made to be smaller and stripped down to improve the power-to-weight ratio. Bobbers are characterized by small seats, raised handlebars, and no front or rear fenders.

Chopper. Almost everyone knows what a chopper is—they’re one of the most popular and recognizable bikes in the US. Also known as American choppers, owners customize these motorcycles with extended forks and a lowered back end. You may have seen them on the show American Chopper, which features Orange County choppers built in a chop shop for a celebrity or other famous customer. 

Café racer. Customized for speed and improved performance, café racers became popular in the 1960s. Stripped down to resemble Grand Prix racing cars, these customized motorcycles cover small distances.

Streetfighter. This motorcycle is difficult to categorize but easy to recognize. A streetfighter is stripped-down and customized to be high-powered, aggressive, and outrageous. These bikes are for performance and show, so they boast a multiple cylinder engine, enhanced brakes, a dazzling paint job, and more.

Why Get a Custom Chopper?

Riding a regular motorcycle is freeing and fun, so why should you build or buy a custom chopper? Here are some benefits of owning a custom chopper and reasons you should add one to your garage:

• You’ll learn a lot
• You can own something that wasn’t mass-produced
• It’s possible to do it inexpensively
• You can make a low-maintenance bike
• Creating your own gives you personal satisfaction

Do You Need Custom Chopper Insurance?

If you own a custom chopper, you may be wondering if you need a policy for regular motorcycles or custom chopper insurance. Most states require at least liability coverage for you to ride your bike on the road legally. Keep in mind that custom motorcycle insurance may be more expensive. Your agent can help you find the best coverage for your needs

While owning a stock motorcycle can also be great, nothing beats a custom bike tailored just for you. You can buy one (at a high price), or you can choose to build it yourself.

Looking for custom motorcycle insurance? You found it at InsureOne! Get the best coverage for you at affordable prices. Start your free custom chopper insurance quote online, over the phone, or at one of our offices near you.

Motorcycle Insurance Cost

Determining the average cost of motorcycle insurance is not an easy task because so many variables go into determining the cost. 

Some of those variables include:

• The motorcycle you insure
• What coverage you select
• Where you live
• Your driving record
• Age
• Gender

These are only a portion of the variables that go into calculating the cost of motorcycle insurance. Generally speaking, motorcycle insurance costs tend to be higher for younger drivers. If you want a free motorcycle insurance quote, call InsureOne today. 

Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

Most states require motorcycle owners to buy liability insurance. Liability coverage pays for others’ injuries or damages if you cause an accident. The lowest amount of liability insurance you must buy for your motorcycle is the same as your state’s car insurance minimum requirements. 

Some states also require drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This coverage pays for injuries resulting from an accident caused by a driver who’s uninsured or who doesn’t have enough insurance.

What Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?

Motorcycle insurance is similar to car insurance. Standard motorcycle insurance policies include bodily injury and property damage liability insurance, which riders are required to have in most states. This coverage only applies to other people’s injuries and property damage for an accident that you cause. It does not cover you. You will need to add optional coverages such as collision coverage and personal injury protection. 

What if I Don’t Ride My Motorcycle All Year?

Many insurance companies offer lay-up insurance during winter when many drivers put their motorcycles in storage. During the lay-up period, insurance still covers you against theft and other events that can happen while you are not riding your bike. 

Ways to Save on Motorcycle Insurance

If you want to lower your motorcycle insurance rates, there are specific motorcycle insurance discounts that you may qualify for.

• Multi-policy discounts – combine your home, renters, and other insurance policies 
• Motorcycle safety course – complete an approved safety course and earn a discount
• Multi-vehicle – bundle two or more of your vehicles, boats, etc.
• Riding association – if you are a member of a riding associate, you can earn a discount
• Anti-lock brakes – if your motorcycle has anti-lock brakes, you’re eligible
• Homeowner – owning a home, condo, townhome, you’re eligible for a discount.
• Good Rider discount – going 60 months without an at-fault accident
• Mature riders – if you are older and have been riding a while, you qualify

Types of Motorcycles Covered by Motorcycle Insurance

You can get all of your bikes covered with motorcycle insurance. InsureOne provides motorcycle insurance that is reliable and covers a wide range of bikes, including:

• Antique Motorcycles
• Cruisers
• Motocross and Dirt Bikes
• Street Sport Bike
• Mopeds
• Scooters
• Touring motorcycles
• Custom Choppers
• Vintage Bikes
• And most other types of motorized bikes

How to Get Affordable Motorcycle Insurance

If you are a motorcycle owner and are looking for reliable motorcycle insurance, call InsureOne. We provide motorcycle insurance that will protect you and your bike when the unexpected happens. For over 20 years, motorcycle owners have trusted us to protect their bikes, and we can do the same for you. Call us now at (800) 836-2240 to get a free motorcycle insurance quote. 

Learn more about motorcycle insurance and get a quote.

Motorcycle Insurance Coverage Options

As with standard auto insurance, you have many options for motorcycle insurance. When you get a motorcycle insurance quote, the insurance agent can help you select the coverage you need.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is the most basic form of coverage. This coverage kicks in if you cause an accident, injure someone, or damage property while riding your motorcycle. Liability insurance will not repair your bike or handle your medical bills if you cause an accident.

Most states have minimum liability requirements, but the minimum is not enough. The minimum is often as low as $25,000 per person for bodily injury and $20,000 for property damage. You can expect to pay lots of money out of your own pocket if you cause an accident and only have minimum liability coverage.

Collision Coverage

If you are concerned about repairs for your bike in an accident, consider collision coverage. Collision coverage will cover damages from an accident, even if you were at fault.

Comprehensive Insurance

Unfortunately, damage can occur when you aren’t riding your motorcycle. Someone might vandalize your bike, or it could get damaged in a fire. Comprehensive coverage pays for the damage your bike receives when you aren’t riding it. Many motorcyclists like this coverage since it gives them peace of mind.

Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Coverage

Sadly, some people don’t have insurance, but that doesn’t keep them from driving. If you’re in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist, this coverage will pay for any damages you incur.

Personal Injury Protection

Riding motorcycles can be dangerous. You could wipe out and incur some significant medical bills. Many motorcyclists choose to get personal injury protection (PIP) to cover damages if they’re in an accident. PIP covers medical expenses and lost wages, as well as other damages.

Add-on Options

Motorcycle insurance companies offer some add-ons, as well. Consider these add-ons when getting a motorcycle insurance quote.

Accessory Coverage

If you’ve spent a lot of money on accessories for your motorcycle, consider accessories coverage. This coverage pays for items such as modifications, safety equipment, and custom paint if it’s damaged.

Roadside Assistance

Roadside assistance is also helpful for motorcyclists. This coverage kicks in if you are stranded on the side of the road because your bike has broken down. The insurance company can deliver fluids and fuel or tow your bike if necessary.

Rental Coverage

If your bike is in the shop after an accident, you can rent another one with rental coverage. That way, you don’t have to stop riding while you wait for your bike to get fixed.

Trailer Coverage

Do you use a trailer to transport your motorcycle? Trailer coverage protects the trailer in case of an accident.

Trip Interruption Coverage

Motorcycles occasionally break down away from home, and you have to spend time in another location. Trip interruption coverage will pay for your lodging and food while you wait for your motorcycle to be repaired.

Average Motorcycle Insurance Cost

Finding cheap motorcycle insurance isn’t that different. It tends to be much more affordable than car insurance. The average motorcycle insurance cost is $702 a year, and many states sit below that average. For instance, North Dakota, Iowa, Wyoming, Nebraska, and South Dakota have rates that are at least 32 percent lower than the national average. 

While motorcycle insurance is generally affordable, you can save more money by only getting liability coverage, although it’s wise to get more than the state’s minimum requirements. You can also save money by taking a motorcycle safety training class or getting a riders club membership. Also, installing a theft recovery system will reduce the amount you pay for coverage.

Lay-up Periods

You can also save some money on coverage by utilizing lay-up periods. Motorcycle insurance companies realize that many people don’t drive their bikes during the winter since it’s cold and icy. If you take advantage of the lay-up period, you cannot drive your motorcycle during the pre-determined months, but the insurance company will still cover you if your bike is damaged while in storage.

Get a Motorcycle Insurance Quote

Do you want to save on motorcycle insurance? Begin by getting a quote. A licensed agent will go over your options and provide you with a quote for the best motorcycle insurance for your needs. Then you can purchase your motorcycle insurance and enjoy extra protection on the road.

Get an obligation-free motorcycle insurance quote online or over the phone by calling (800) 836-2240.