Planning to make modifications to your bike? Understand how it may impact your insurance 09th November 2021
The craze of upgrading the look and feel of bikes has been a massive attraction, especially for the youth. These modifications are mainly made on the aesthetics or performance of the bike. However, people spend hefty amounts to get these modifications without considering their influence on the vehicle's insurance premium.
Also, know that not every modification is for looks and performance; some are for ensuring security. So, the question remains, how do all these modifications affect the insurance premium?
Below, we've explained all the types of modifications and their effect on your vehicle insurance premiums.
1. Modifications aimed at performance enhancement:
All bikers seek greater performance from their motorcycles. Whether it's a small or large modification, most of them enjoy altering things that they feel would considerably improve the performance of their bikes. Changes are done for faster acceleration, better handling, and effective braking.
Typically, insurance companies view such bike modifications as 'risky,' as more incredible speed increases the likelihood of an accident. As a result, they charge a higher premium for bike insurance.
2. Modifications aimed at aesthetics improvement:
Aesthetic changes improve your bike's visual appeal and give it a distinct appearance. For example, you may customize your bike by changing its colour, altering the seat cover, adding fibre components to bulk up the bike, or adjusting the headlights to make it look sporty. These upgrades come with an increased danger of your bike being stolen. As a result, the cost of your insurance premium may shoot up.
3. Modifications aimed at security:
Not all bike upgrades raise the value of the bike. Security upgrades might help you save money on your bike insurance premiums. Such changes are to reduce the likelihood of bike theft. Increasing the security of your bike with sensors, locks, and other such equipment can help you save money on your bike insurance.
Insurance companies provide discounts for installing anti-theft systems because they perceive it as a deterrent to theft. As a result, it is a win-win situation for both the insurer and the insured. To get benefits on your bike insurance rate, make sure you only install gadgets that have been certified by the Automotive Research Association of India.
4. Modifications aimed for specially abled persons:
If a rider is differently abled, his bike will be modified to accommodate his impairment, thereby allowing him to ride more comfortably and conveniently. There are no additional fees for such modifications. Instead, the insurance provider offers a discount to make these modifications.
Several factors influence the premium amount whenever you modify your bike. As a result, you must notify your insurer of any changes while purchasing bike insurance online or physically.
We all want to make our bike unique by personalizing it. However, before you make major changes to increase its appearance and worth, you may seek clearance from the ARAI and RTO about all the modifications. As previously indicated, modifications made for safety purposes will not raise insurance premiums, but those made for aesthetic reasons can be pricey. When purchasing or renewing bike insurance online, make sure to inform the insurer of any changes to avoid any hassles at the time of claim settlements.
Click HERE to get the best two-wheeler insurance for your modified bikes.
Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.