Motorbike Insurance

Why choose us for your motorbike insurance?

When you choose Howden for your motorbike insurance, you are supported by people who understand what riding means to you. We take the time to learn about your experience, your bike, and how you use it so we can guide you toward cover that genuinely suits your life.

Motorbike insurance is arranged through Principal Insurance, which is part of Howden. Principal has been helping Irish riders protect everything from 50cc scooters to modern sports bikes and classic machines for many years, with specialist knowledge of the two-wheel market.

By bringing together Principal’s expertise and Howden’s personal support, you get clear guidance, help with your questions, and insurance that is shaped around you. It is straightforward, friendly, and built with real riders in mind so you can get back to enjoying the road with confidence.

Benefits of choosing us for your bike insurance

• Approximately 33% bike riders in Ireland trust Principal for their cover, and Principal is now part of Howden.
• Specialist two-wheel expertise, giving you access to dedicated motorbike knowledge.
• Clear guidance at every step, so you always know what your policy includes.
• Local insight from a team that understands Irish riders and Irish roads, helping you choose suitable cover.
• Cover shaped around your bike, experience, and riding style, with help choosing the right options.
• Support when you need it, whether you are updating your details or dealing with the unexpected

Types of motorbike insurance available

Comprehensive motorbike insurance

Ideal for riders who want broader protection. It can cover damage to your own motorbike after an accident, as well as fire, theft, and damage you may cause to others. Many riders choose this option for new, high‑value, or regularly used bikes.

Third Party, Fire & Theft

A practical balance for many riders. It covers third‑party damage and gives you protection if your bike is stolen or damaged by fire. It’s a popular choice for daily riders who want good cover without going fully comprehensive.

Third Party Only

This is the minimum legal requirement in Ireland. It protects others if an accident happens, but not your own bike. It may suit riders with older or lower‑value bikes.

Optional extras available

Depending on the insurer and policy, you may be able to add:

• Breakdown assistance in Ireland or Europe which provides roadside help wherever you are riding.
• Legal expenses cover which supports you with certain legal costs after an accident.
• Travel and European riding cover which is ideal for touring or longer trips abroad.
• No claims discount protection which helps you keep your discount after certain claims.
• Cover for approved modifications or accessories which protects upgrades or add-ons. While this optional extra cover can be offered, it is reviewed internally by our experts.
• Open rider or named rider options are also allowed in third party only basis which give you flexibility over who can use your bike.

We guide you through your options, so you end up with the cover that suits you best.

Special motorbike cover Howden can help you access

Several factors influence the price you pay for motorbike insurance in Ireland:

• Your age and riding experience.
• Your bike type, value and engine size.
• Where you live and where you park your bike.
• Your claims and licence history.
• Any performance or cosmetic modifications.
• Your annual mileage.
• Whether you add younger or less experienced riders.
• Breaks in your insurance history.

Here are a few practical steps that can help reduce your motorbike premium:

Fit approved security devices: Adding alarms, chains, trackers, or immobilisers reduces the risk of theft, which can help lower your premium.

Park your bike securely at night: Keeping your motorbike in a locked garage, shed, or secure parking area makes it less likely to be stolen and often results in cheaper insurance.

Consider extra training (in addition to IBT): In addition to finishing your Initial Basic Training (IBT), taking advanced rider courses shows insurers you’re a safer rider, which may help reduce your costs.

Limit unnecessary modifications: Custom parts, performance upgrades, and cosmetic changes can increase risk - keeping modifications minimal usually results in lower premiums.

Keep a clean claims and licence record: Avoiding claims and maintaining a licence free of penalty points signals lower risk to insurers, helping keep your premium down.

Pay annually if it reduces the total cost: Paying for your policy upfront can be cheaper than monthly instalments, as it avoids interest or finance charges.

We’ll review your details and guide you through any cost‑saving options that may apply to your policy.

Why go through a broker?

Choosing motorbike insurance on your own can feel confusing, especially with different insurers offering different levels of cover. A broker helps you cut through the noise.

At Howden, we begin by understanding your bike, how you ride, and what matters to you. We explain your options in plain language so you know exactly what each policy includes. Our specialist motorbike team, we can compare policies and guide you toward protection that feels right for your needs.

If anything changes or something goes wrong, you have real people to turn to. Whether you are updating your bike or making a claim, you are never on your own.

What you need to get a motorbike insurance quote

Your personal details

Basic information such as your name, address, date of birth, and contact details are needed to identify you and confirm eligibility.

Your motorbike details

Information about your bike, including registration, make, model, engine size, year, value, usage, security, and whether it is imported or modified, helps insurers assess risk accurately.

Storage and security arrangements

Details about where your bike is kept, including garage type or home storage, help determine theft and damage risk.

Your riding history and licence details

Your licence type, category, issuing country, IBT status, riding experience, and any restrictions are required to confirm you are legally permitted to ride the bike.

Insurance and claims history

Information about your no claims bonus, previous insurer, claims, convictions, licence endorsements, or disqualifications helps insurers calculate a fair and accurate premium.

You can fill in our quote form and our advisors will get in touch with you.

*Note: This is a marketing article from Howden Insurance. The information in this guide is accurate at time of publication. This content is provided for general information only and does not constitute financial or insurance advice.