Who makes the most motorcycle insurance claims?

Motorcycle riding has a lot of benefits. It can be an efficient method for getting from A to B, or a great way to get out there and see the countryside. And if you find a few like-minded souls to ride with, it can be your ticket to a rich and rewarding social life.

If you’ve been out there on Australia’s scenic roads and highways on the weekend, you may have noticed that there are quite a few middle-aged bikers out there. You may even be one yourself! Maybe you’ve been doing it all your life, or maybe you’ve just jumped on your motorcycle for the first time, or the first time in a long time. And why not? Your kids are taking care of themselves, you’ve got a bit of financial freedom, grab those leathers and get out there!

Along with the enjoyment of motorbike riding, there can be some risk. Being aware of it and prepared for it, regardless of your level of experience, is always a good idea.

Returning to the road

You’ve dragged your old chopper out of the garage, or – even more exciting! – splashed out on something new. You’ve got your new leathers, a shiny helmet, and you’re ready to burn some rubber!

It’s worth noting, though, that our claims data for 2018* shows that the largest number of motorbike insurance claims are made by bike owners between 51-60 (26.40% of all claims), with the 41-50 age group close behind (25.52% of claims).

This is a little different to the data for other motor vehicles, which shows that there’s less of a gap between claims numbers for 41-60 year olds, and their younger and older counterparts^.

Of course, there could be a variety of factors at play here. There may be a lot more middle-aged riders out on the road, thanks to budget and lifestyle factors. Those riders may have the budget for more powerful bikes thanks to their increased financial freedom, and if they’re retired or semi-retired they may simply be spending more time on their bikes.

So while the claims data doesn’t mean that middle-aged riders are more dangerous, it may suggest that the risks don’t disappear as riders age out of their younger years. 

Motorcycle insurance: know your options

Of course, if you’re going to hop on your bike and hit the road, you’ll want to make sure you’re covered in case something goes wrong. Suncorp Insurance offers three different levels of motorcycle insurance, making it easy to find a policy that may suit your needs and budget.

• Third Party Property Damage, which offers liability cover for damage to someone else’s vehicle or property.
• Fire, Theft & Third Party Property Damage, which also offers liability cover and adds cover for fire and theft.
• Comprehensive, which is our top-level motorcycle insurance that includes the covers mentioned above along with a lot of extras.

Learn About Motorcycle Insurance Options

Whatever the underlying causes, the stats mentioned in the above chart should serve as a helpful reminder that motorcycle riders, like everyone who uses the road, should ride safely and make sure they’re covered with the appropriate motorcycle insurance, regardless of their age or level of experience. Once that’s taken care of, there’s nothing left to do but enjoy the road!

Read more:

• Simple car repair options for scratches and minor dents
• What am I covered for when I’m off-road driving?
• Your essential car maintenance guide

* This data is based on claims accepted for Suncorp Insurance Comprehensive, Fire, Theft and Third Party Property Damage and Third Party Damage Motorcycle Insurance Policies between between Jan 1 and Dec 31, 2018.

^ This data is based on claims accepted for Suncorp Insurance Comprehensive and Third Party Car Insurance Policies between between Jan 1 and Dec 31, 2018.

Insurance is issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 trading as Suncorp Insurance. Consider the Product Disclosure Statement before making a decision about this insurance. The Target Market Determination is also available. This advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situations or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it.

See all articles

Follow us