Motorcycle insurance in New York, built around how you ride
Riding in New York means tight traffic, scarce parking and a season that can stretch from early spring into late fall. Gordon Companies shops motorcycle insurance across multiple carriers for riders in Manhattan, the other boroughs, Westchester, Long Island and the New Jersey and Connecticut suburbs.
We are an independent, family-owned brokerage in Midtown, operating since 1968. You deal with a real person who takes the time to understand your bike, how you ride it and where it lives when you are not on it.
What motorcycle insurance covers
A motorcycle policy is built much like auto insurance, with a few coverages that matter more on two wheels.
- Liability for injuries and property damage you cause to others
- Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage, for when the other driver cannot pay
- Collision, for damage to your bike in a crash
- Comprehensive, for theft, vandalism, fire and falling objects
- Custom parts and equipment, such as aftermarket exhaust, seats, paint and accessories
- Riding gear like helmets and jackets, on many policies
- Towing and roadside assistance, where carriers offer it
New York’s no-fault system works differently for motorcycles than for cars, so we take care to explain how medical expenses for you and your passenger would be handled after a crash, and what optional coverage can fill that space.
Bikes we can help insure
- Street, sport and standard motorcycles
- Cruisers and touring bikes
- Trikes and trike conversions
- Classic and vintage motorcycles
- Scooters
- Off-road dirt bikes and ATVs, which are often written as powersports insurance
Riding and parking in New York City
Theft is a real concern for bikes parked on the street, so comprehensive coverage and where you keep the bike both deserve attention. Garaging location affects motorcycle rates the same way it affects car rates.
Many city riders only ride for part of the year. Ask us how your carrier handles the months your bike is in storage, since some policies can be adjusted while a bike is not being ridden.
If you commute by motorcycle or regularly carry a passenger, tell us. Both can change how the policy should be written.
How we shop your motorcycle policy
Each carrier looks at riders a little differently. The main factors we compare are:
- Your riding experience and the motorcycle class on your license
- Your driving and riding record
- Type, engine size and value of the bike
- Where the bike is kept overnight
- How often and how far you ride
- Completion of a rider safety course, which some carriers reward
- The limits and deductibles you choose
Gaps we look for
Custom parts are the most common gap. Many policies include only limited coverage for aftermarket equipment, so we make sure your upgrades are listed and covered for the right amount.
Liability limits are the second. A serious crash can involve large injury claims, and an umbrella policy can add protection above your motorcycle liability limits when the carrier allows it.
We also remind riders that a homeowners policy typically offers little or no coverage for a motorcycle, even one parked in your own garage.
Questions we hear about motorcycle insurance
Is motorcycle insurance required in New York?
Yes. New York requires liability insurance on a registered motorcycle. The state minimums are a starting point, and most riders with assets to protect are better served by higher limits.
Does my car insurance cover my motorcycle?
Generally, no. A motorcycle needs its own policy, although placing it with the same carrier as your car can sometimes earn a multi-policy discount.
Are my helmet and riding gear covered?
Many motorcycle policies include some coverage for helmets, jackets and other gear, and some let you buy more. The amount varies by carrier, so we check it when we compare quotes.
Can I insure a bike I only ride in the warmer months?
Yes. Your bike still needs protection from theft, fire and other damage while it is stored, and we can show you how different carriers treat the off season.
Related coverage
Get a motorcycle quote
Tell us about your bike on our quote request page, or call 212-687-2525 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. A real person at Gordon Companies will compare carriers for you and walk you through the options before you ride.
