What is Motor Two-Wheeler Insurance?
Motor Two-Wheeler Insurance is a type of insurance policy designed specifically for motorcycles, scooters, and other two-wheeled vehicles. It protects the vehicle owner against financial losses arising from damages or theft of the vehicle, third-party liabilities, and sometimes personal injury claims due to accidents.
Benefits of Motor Two-Wheeler Insurance
- Financial Protection: Covers repair or replacement costs for damages caused by accidents, theft, fire, or natural disasters.
- Third-Party Liability: Covers legal liabilities for injuries or damages caused to others.
- Cashless Repairs: Many insurers provide network garages where repairs are done without upfront payment.
- Personal Accident Cover: Compensation for injury or death of the rider.
- No Claim Bonus (NCB): Discounts on premium for claim-free years.
- Optional Add-Ons: Coverage can be enhanced with add-ons like zero depreciation, roadside assistance, engine protection, etc.
Risks of Motor Two-Wheeler Insurance
- Premium Costs: Higher premiums for high-powered bikes or risky locations.
- Claim Rejections: Potential for claim denial due to policy violations or incorrect documentation.
- Limited Coverage: Some policies may have exclusions like wear and tear, mechanical breakdown.
- Underinsurance: Inadequate sum insured can lead to insufficient compensation.
- Waiting Periods: Some add-ons have waiting periods before they become effective.
Top 10 Motor Two-Wheeler Insurance Plans in India (2025)
| Insurance Provider | Plan Name | Type | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bajaj Allianz | Two Wheeler Insurance | Comprehensive | Zero depreciation, roadside assistance | Strong network, good claim settlement | Premium slightly higher than others |
| ICICI Lombard | Two Wheeler Insurance | Comprehensive | Personal accident cover, cashless garage | Quick claim process, wide coverage | Limited add-ons |
| HDFC ERGO | Two Wheeler Secure | Comprehensive | Engine protector, zero dep, roadside assist | Comprehensive add-ons, good customer service | Premium higher for older bikes |
| Reliance General | Two Wheeler Insurance | Comprehensive | No Claim Bonus, accidental damage cover | Affordable premiums, easy online purchase | Network garage limited in rural areas |
| New India Assurance | Two Wheeler Insurance | Third Party + OD | Government backed, personal accident cover | Reliable, affordable third-party premiums | Claim process slower |
| Tata AIG | Two Wheeler Insurance | Comprehensive | Zero depreciation, roadside assistance | Flexible plans, good coverage | Add-ons increase premium significantly |
| Bharti AXA | Two Wheeler Insurance | Comprehensive | Cashless repairs, personal accident cover | Easy renewals, good network garages | Limited add-ons |
| Oriental Insurance | Two Wheeler Insurance | Comprehensive | Zero depreciation, personal accident cover | Government insurer, competitive pricing | Customer service can be inconsistent |
| National Insurance | Two Wheeler Insurance | Third Party + OD | Affordable, covers theft, accident | Trusted government insurer | Limited online services |
| Liberty General | Two Wheeler Insurance | Comprehensive | Roadside assistance, zero depreciation | Good claim settlement ratio | Less brand recognition |
Summary Table Comparing Plans (Pros and Cons)
| Provider | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bajaj Allianz | Extensive network, zero depreciation cover | Slightly higher premiums |
| ICICI Lombard | Fast claim processing, good coverage | Fewer add-ons available |
| HDFC ERGO | Wide add-ons, excellent service | Expensive for older vehicles |
| Reliance General | Affordable, easy online purchase | Limited rural network |
| New India Assurance | Trusted govt. insurer, low third-party premiums | Slow claim process |
| Tata AIG | Flexible plans, strong coverage | High premiums with add-ons |
| Bharti AXA | Easy renewals, good network | Limited customization |
| Oriental Insurance | Competitive pricing, zero depreciation | Inconsistent customer service |
| National Insurance | Trusted, affordable third-party | Limited digital presence |
| Liberty General | Good claim ratio, roadside assistance | Lesser-known brand |
FAQ for Motor Two-Wheeler Insurance
Q1: Is two-wheeler insurance mandatory?
A: Yes, third-party insurance is mandatory by law in India.
Q2: What is the difference between third-party and comprehensive insurance?
A: Third-party covers damages to others only; comprehensive covers your own vehicle plus third-party damages.
Q3: Can I transfer my insurance to a new owner?
A: Yes, insurance policies can be transferred on vehicle sale.
Q4: What is No Claim Bonus (NCB)?
A: Discount on premium for every claim-free year.
Q5: How do I file a claim?
A: Report to insurer immediately, submit required documents, and follow insurer’s claim process.
Q6: What add-ons are available?
A: Common add-ons include zero depreciation, roadside assistance, engine protection, and key replacement.
Q7: Will my premium increase after a claim?
A: Usually, yes. Premiums often increase after a claim.
Q8: How is the premium calculated?
A: Based on vehicle type, age, engine capacity, location, and coverage selected.
Q9: Does insurance cover damages caused by natural disasters?
A: Comprehensive plans usually cover natural disasters like floods, storms, fire, etc.
Q10: What documents are required to buy two-wheeler insurance?
A: Vehicle registration certificate, driving license, previous insurance details (if any), and identity proof.