In today’s digital-first world, purchasing bike insurance online has quickly become the most preferred option for riders. Whether you own a simple commuter bike, a sports bike, or an electric two-wheeler, buying insurance online gives you convenience, cost savings, and complete transparency. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, what to check, how to compare, and how to buy the right bike insurance policy effortlessly.
Why Buying Bike Insurance Online Is a Smart Decision
1. Quick and Hassle-Free
Buying bike insurance online takes only a few minutes. Enter bike details, compare plans, select coverage, and make the payment, all from home. No paperwork or agent coordination needed.
2. Instant Policy Issuance
Once the payment is completed, your policy document is generated instantly. You can download it anytime and keep a soft copy on your smartphone.
3. Greater Transparency
Online platforms clearly display:
- Premium breakup
- IDV (Insured Declared Value)
- Add-on prices
- Coverage & exclusions
This makes it easier to choose wisely.
4. Easy Comparison
You can view plans from multiple insurers in one place. This allows you to find the best value based on budget, coverage, claim ratio, and reviews.
Types of Bike Insurance Policy that can be purchased Online
Understanding the types of policy is crucial before making a choice.
1. Third-Party Bike Insurance
- Required by Indian law.
- Third-party property damage, injury, or death.
- Doesn’t cover damages on your bike.
- For older or low-value bikes.
2. Comprehensive Bike Insurance
- Third-party liability plus own damage.
- Provides protection against theft, fire, natural calamities, accidents, and vandalism.
- Allows add-ons like zero depreciation and roadside assistance.
- Best for newer and mid-range bikes.
3. Standalone Own Damage (OD) Cover
- Covers only damages to your bike.
- Useful if you already have a valid third-party policy.
Important Things to Check Before Buying Bike Insurance Online
1. IDV: Insured Declared Value
IDV is the current market value of your bike. It directly influences:
- Total Loss /Theft Compensation
- Premium amount
- Choose an IDV that balances coverage and cost.
2. Premium
Don’t chase the lowest premium blindly. Low premiums may mean reduced IDV or limited coverage. Compare benefits, not just price.
3. Add-On Covers
Add-ons enhance your policy. Popular ones include:
- Zero Depreciation: Full claim without depreciation deductions.
- Roadside Assistance: Useful during breakdowns.
- Ideal Engine Protect: This is a must in flood-prone areas.
- NCB Protection: Keeps your bonus intact after a claim.
- Return to Invoice: Restores full invoice value in case of total loss.
4. Claim Settlement Ratio (CSR)
A higher CSR means the insurer settles claims more efficiently. Aim for insurers with 85%+ CSR.
5. Cashless Garage Network
More network garages mean easier, faster, and hassle-free claim repairs.
6. Customer Reviews
Check feedback about the claim service, quality of support, and policy fulfillment.
How to Purchase Bike Insurance Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Visit either an Insurer Website or a Comparison Portal
Start by visiting the insurer’s official website or a reliable aggregator platform.
Step 2: Enter Your Bike Details
You will need:
- Registration number
- Brand/Model
- Year of manufacture
- Previous policy details
These details help to generate accurate quotes.
Step 3: Select Policy Type
Choose from:
- Third-party
- Comprehensive
- Standalone OD
For new bikes, comprehensive is the safest.
Step 4: Tailor Your Plan
Adjust:
- IDV
- Add-on's
- Deductibles
Choose add-ons only when they come relevant for your usage.
Step 5: Review Policy Terms
Read Carefully:
- Inclusions
- Exclusions
- Deductibles
- Claims process
This ensures that there are no surprises during claims.
Step 6: Make Payment
Use:
- UPI
- Internet banking
- Cards
- Digital wallets
All payments are secure and encrypted.
Step 7: Download Your Policy
You will receive the policy instantly via email. Keep both digital and printed copies accessible.
Money-Saving Tips When Buying Bike Insurance Online
1. Keep Your NCB Intact
Avoid small claims. Maintaining your No Claim Bonus can reduce premiums by up to 50%.
2. Opt for Voluntary Deductibles
A higher deductible lowers premiums, but choose an amount you can afford during claims.
3. Compare Plans Before Buying
Always compare at least 4–5 plans to save better.
4. Employ Anti-Theft Devices
Bikes equipped with anti-theft systems approved by ARAI attract premium discounts.
5. Renewal before Expiration
On-time renewal will avoid policy lapse and save your NCB.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Buying Bike Insurance Online
- Choosing the cheapest plan without knowing the coverage
- Avoiding significant add-ons such as zero depreciation
- Providing incorrect bike or personal details
- Exclusions not checked
- Missing renewal deadlines
This avoids mistakes that provide smoother protection and claims.
FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is online bike insurance valid and safe?
Yes. Policies bought online are legally valid and accepted by traffic authorities. Payments are processed through secure, encrypted gateways.
Q2. Can I get insurance for the new bike online?
Absolutely. In fact, buying insurance online for a new bike is quicker and gives you more options to compare.
Q3. Which documents do I need to purchase bike insurance online?
In most cases, you only need:
- Bike Registration number
- PREVIOUS POLICY DETAILS - FOR RENEWAL
- Personal information: name, address, contact
Q4. How long does it take to get the policy?
The policy is issued instantly, and it is emailed within minutes.
Q5. Is insurance possible to be claimed with an online policy?
Yes. Online policies work exactly like offline ones. You can raise cashless or reimbursement claims anytime.
Conclusion
Buying bike insurance online is the smartest way to secure your two-wheeler. It offers quick processing, instant policy issuance, complete transparency, and hassle-free comparisons. By understanding policy types, checking IDV, choosing relevant add-ons, and comparing premiums, you can find the best protection for your bike at the right price. This quick guide equips you with everything you need to make a confident, well-informed online bike insurance purchase.