How to Get the Cheapest Motorcycle Insurance and Free Quotes Online

So you have decided that buying a motorcycle is a great idea. After you purchase your dream ride, what do you do next? Of course, arrange for insurance coverage for yourself and your bike. Insurance costs money, but you do not want to pay an arm and a leg.

How Insurance Companies Determine Your Premium

Insurance companies like customers who buy insurance, but never submit claims. For insurers, it is all about risk. An insurance company carries out an assessment and decides the rate that best reflects the level of risk involved. According to Upside Insurance Greenville, some of the factors insurers consider are:

  • The type of motorcycle you own
  • Your age
  • Your driving history
  • Your Area of residence

Here is how you can save some money when buying motorcycle insurance:

1. Comparison Shop

Call several insurance companies and request rate quotes. Also, get online quotes. You may notice cost differences between similar products different companies offer. Comparison-shopping could be the most effective way to save money when buying insurance.

2. Get Training

Insurance companies know that trained riders are likely to be safe riders. If you are new to riding or have had an accident before, enroll in a motorcycle training course. Remember to provide the insurance company with your certification documents. As a safer rider, you may end up paying less.

3. Buy the Right Motorcycle

Insurance companies may associate some types of bikes with a higher level of risk. Expect to pay more if you own an expensive motorcycle or a sports bike. Also, you are likely to spend more if your bike has a larger engine. Older motorcycles may attract lower premiums than newer ones. You want to save money so choose the right bike.

4. Use Your Clean Driving Record

Become a preferred operator — a rider with a clean driving record. Every company is different, and each may have a different definition of what a clean driving record is. Get your driving record. You can obtain it from your state’s department of motor vehicles. Ask your insurance company if you qualify to be a preferred operator. If you are eligible, you can get a discount.

5. Ask for Age-based Discounts

Adults under age 25 have a higher likelihood of involvement in accidents. People aged 25 and above are likely to be college graduates and married. Insurance companies may view them as being more responsible. Women and men above age 25 can save as much as 15 and 20 percent respectively.

 6. Your Zip Code Can Save You Money

Did you know that your zip code could influence how much motorcycle insurance premium you pay? Insurance companies will ask for higher premium if you live in an area associated with a high crime rate. Additionally, you are likely to pay more if your home is near an accident-prone spot. Riders living in rural areas pay significantly less than their counterparts living in major cities.

You can save money when purchasing a motorcycle policy if you know how. Having the right coverage before hitting the road doesn’t have to cost a fortune!

5 Reasons to Never Ride Your Motorcycle without Insurance

Motorcycling can be a fun experience however it comes with a lot of risks. If you are a motorcycle enthusiast, safety should be your first concern. In that regard, you must always make sure that you have proper gear before getting on the road. Of more importance, however, is having insurance coverage. The following are […]

Local Vegas Movers Share Motorcycle Transportation Tips

Moving your motorcycle across the country can be an easy and stress-free ordeal, or it can be a pain depending on your preparation. While some might opt for a grueling long-distance bike ride to transport it, a majority of motorcycle owners opt for other DIY methods or using a professional moving company. Here are a few tips to assist you in successfully getting your bike across the country with minimal stress.

Prepare Your Motorcycle for Transportation

There are some steps you need to check to get your motorcycle ready for shipping. Covering your bases helps prevent any potential damage from happening during transit.

Wash It

Thoroughly clean your motorbike to get it ready for transit. Take special care to remove soil particles on the tires and any other heavy dirt. Inspect it before cleaning it to identify any issues that need addressing before packing it for the move.

Document It

If you opt to use movers to ship your motorcycle across the country or entrust it to a third party to do it for you, you need to note its condition. Cheap Movers Las Vegas (www.cheapmoverslasvegas.com) recommends taking pictures of the bike from all angles. Note any pre-existing damage in detail so that you can later check against this list during the post-delivery inspection.

Empty Fluids

Drain the fuel from the motorcycle and only leave enough to enable you to get it on and off the ramp (around a quarter of the tank). You should also remove the battery to avoid any damage due to exposure to high temperatures or other variables. Some movers might have specific conditions concerning the gas and battery so confirm with the moving company you hire to know what their preference is concerning the issue.

Check Loose Parts

Loose or removable parts on your motorcycle need to be secured or stored separately to avoid any mishaps. A simple way to handle this is to tie them and stabilized them during transportation. Some of the movable parts you need to check include:

  • Tank bags
  • The exhaust
  • Fairing
  • Saddlebags

motorcycles

Loading Methods

If you opt to go with a moving company, there are different ways to load your motorcycle for transport.

Individual Crating

The motorcycle is placed into a wooden crate on its own and covered up. This is a preferable option as it ensures minimal damage to your bike in case of any mishap.

Multiple Crating

Your motorcycle in this scenario is blocked and secured in a brace alongside others. Double stacking is a common practice here, but it poses several drawbacks including a bracing/strapping failure by another motorcycle that can cause damage to yours. Additionally, your motorcycle can get leaking fluid spilled on it from another one above it.

For the DIY crowd, loading on your truck bed is a standard way to transport a motorcycle across the country. Another DIY favorite is loading it onto a towing compartment that you then attach to your vehicle.

motorcycle-transportation-tips

Conclusion

Transporting your motorbike across the country can be a difficult or easy task depending on how you plan it. Prepare your bike before loading it for transport. Decide on the best loading and transportation method that suits your need to get your prized possession to its destination safely.

5 Things You Need to Know about the Las Vegas Bikefest 2017

The Las Vegas Bikefest 2017 is the premiere biker rally in the U.S. that each year highlights the biggest, baddest, and most spectacular choppers, speed bikes, and hogs anywhere in the country. This year’s rally takes place October 5-8 and promises to be just as epic as in years past. Here’s everything you need to know about this event:

1. Book Your Accommodations

The offical rally hotel is the Golden Nugget, but several other hotels (Downtowner Motel, the D, The Downtown Grand, Oasis at Golden Spike, Plaza Hotel & Casino, and Stratosphere Casino, Hotel & Tower) offer discounts when you use the rally’s applicable promo code. Of course, Vegas has no shortage of hotels, so if none of these appeals to you, there are many other options. Here are three of our favorites:

Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino (Headquarter Hotel)
129 E. Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
1-800-331-5731 or book online
Use code: Las Vegas BikeFest 2017
Insider tip: Splurge on your stay by booking a room in the Rush Tower which features a smoke-free lobby, spacious rooms, and more updated amenities.

Downtowner Motel
129 N 8th Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
702-553-2553 or book online
Use code: BikeFest 2017
Insider tip: Simple boutique hotel in the heart of Downtown Las Vegas. Does not have an elevator, so make sure you’re ready to haul your own bags if you don’t get a room on the first floor.

Oasis at Gold Spike
217 N Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89101
702-768-9823 or book online
Insider tip: This hotel is pet-friendly!

Camping

There are 19 camping sites between 6 and 25 miles from Rally Central of Bikefest 2017 that accommodate tents as well as RVs and toy haulers. See the entire list on the official website.

2. The DL on Events

Here’s a run down on the scheduled events for the weekend. Be sure not to miss the motorcycle giveaways, poker walk, and crowd favorite, Miss Las Vegas Bike Fest.

Thursday, October 5, 2017

  • Quick Throttle Custom Bike Show
  • Rally Central Open
  • Artistry in Iron Autograph Session
  • Rev It Up Kick Off Party
  • $500 Shopping Spree Giveaways
  • Bikini Contest
  • Artistry in Iron Awards
  • Motorcycle Giveaway

Friday, October 6, 2017

  • Custom Bike Show Registration
  • Poker Walk
  • Custom Bike Show
  • Run To Pioneer Poker Run Golden Nugget to Red Rock Harley-Davidson
  • Hot Bike FXR/Dyna Show
  • Artistry in Iron Autograph Session
  • Best Facial Hair Competition
  • Tattoo Contest
  • Artistry in Iron Autograph Signing
  • Wet T-Shirt Contest
  • Biker Bingo
  • Custom Bike Show Awards
  • $500 Shopping Spree Giveaways
  • Bikini Contest
  • Motorcycle Giveaway

Saturday, October 7, 2017

  • Poker Run
  • Baddest Bagger Registration
  • Biker Bingo
  • Artistry in Iron Autograph Signing
  • Best Facial Hair Competition
  • Baddest Bagger Awards Ceremony
  • Miss Las Vegas BikeFest
  • Motorcycle Giveaway

Sunday, October 8, 2017

  • Rally Central Open
  • Biker Bingo
  • Artistry in Iron Autograph Signing

3. Plenty of Live Entertainment

In true BikeFest fashion, there’s plenty of live entertainment to enjoy all weekend. These are the highlights:

Saturday, October 6th
Madison Rising Time: 6:30pm – 8:45pm
This rock group led by Rio Miett, an Air Force veteran, has been nicknamed the “Most Patriotic Rock Band.” Other members are Sam Fishman, AJ Larsen, and Tom DiPietro. Check out more on their music at www.MadisonRising.com

Saturday, October 7th
Uncle Kracker Time: TBD
He is a music artist and songwriter known for his 2001 hit single, “Follow Me.” He followed this up with his 2003 Billboard single remake of Dobie Gray’s hit single “Drift Away.” Check out Uncle Kracker’s latest chart-topping videos on his website.

4. Las Vegas Vendors

The complete list of vendors is yet to be determined, but you can find general information and check for an updated vendor list. Here are a few of the vendors you can expect to see:

Cheap Movers Las Vegas
8465 W Sahara Avenue
Suite 111-570
Las Vegas, NV 89117
(702) 660-4699

This company gets deals from the best moving companies Las Vegas has to make moving cheaper. Whether you’re in the process of relocating or simply need assistance transporting your motorcyle(s) or vendor inventory to the convention, Cheap Movers Las Vegas can help you out!

BMW Motorcyles of Las Vegas
6675 S. Tenaya Way
Las Vegas, NV 89113
(702) 454-6269

BMW Las Vegas sells and services motorcycles in the greater Las Vegas area.

Ginz Choppers
23561 Ridge Route Dr
Ste F&G
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
(949) 916-5926

The best name in sissy bars, Ginz Choppers is a parts shop out of Laguna Hills with a reputation for quality products and excellent customer service. We look forward to seeing their wide selection of inventory at the exhibition.

Highway Leather
1014 Iris Dr SW
Conyers, GA 30094
(770) 483-1060

Highway Leather specializes in motorcycle apparel including chaps, jackets, vests and more to ensure you look good while protecting you from road rash.

5. Contact Bikerfest

To get additional info on the weekend, here’s all the contact info you need:

Phone: 866-BIKEFEST (245-3337)
Email: info@lasvegasbikefest.com
Address:
6865 South Eastern Avenue
Suite 101
Las Vegas, NV 89119

Connect Bikefest 2017 online through the following social media sites:

facebook.com/lasvegasbikefest
twitter.com/VegasBikeFest
instagram.com/lasvegasbikefest

 

 

NYC Storage Company on 5 Tips for Long Term Motorcycle Winterization

Motorcycle shops usually count on riders to incorrectly prepare their bikes for the winter season. If you live in an area where year-round riding is not possible, storing your bike in a long-term storage space and properly winterizing it can save you a lot of money and headaches in the future. Below are five steps […]

FAQs About Moving, Movers, & Motorcycles

Editor’s Note: Our last blog post on prepping your motorcycle for shipment received lots of great comments and questions. Here we’ll attempt to answer some of the questions our readers asked. If you are preparing to move yourself and your entire family to a new city, then chances are quite high that you will want […]

Steps to Get Your Bike Ready for Moving Day

As we cover in our FAQs on motorcycle moving, you have several options when it comes to moving your motorcycle, which we will briefly outline here. Choosing your method of transportation is the first step in prepping your motorcycle for a cross country move:

1. Choose A Method of Transport

Road trip: If you have the time and energy, moving out of state presents the perfect opportunity to take a long road trip with your bike. Map out a route and explore new roads on the way to your new home.

Trailer it: For decades, companies like U-Haul have helped Americans take the DIY approach to moving. For those wanting to tow their own motorcycle trailer, U-Haul offers a small flatbed trailer with heavy duty tie downs that you can tow behind your own personal vehicle. Alternatively, consider purchasing your own motorcycle trailer, which can be a great investment for those who frequently take their bike along on trips.

Hire movers: Some moving companies will transport your motorcycle along with the rest of your household goods as long as you remove any flammable liquids. If you’re hiring a moving company, make sure you check with them ahead of time to make sure they will move your bike.

Ship it: The most reliable (and most expensive) method of getting your motorcycle to its new home is by hiring a motor carrier to transport it for you. There are several shipping companies that deal exclusively with motorcycle transport, so they are experts when it comes to getting your motorcycle delivered without a scratch. You can either work with a shipping broker, like Shipping Masters, or directly with a shipping company in your area. Alternatively, you can move your bike in a pack-it-yourself shipping container.

2. Book Your Transportation

Once you’ve decided on the ideal method of transportation, make sure to book it as soon as possible. To ensure that your motorcycle is moved on your schedule, make your reservation at least 2-3 weeks ahead of time, if not sooner. At the time of booking, most shipping or moving companies will require an initial down payment or deposit. The balance is typically due upon delivery of your motorcycle.

Before you make your reservation, make sure you verify insurance coverage with the shipping company. Most companies offer varying levels of insurance coverage. If the value of your bike exceeds their coverage, check with your insurance provider to see what your plan currently covers or look into obtaining additional coverage.

3. Prep the Bike

Before moving day arrives, you’ll need to make sure your bike is prepped and ready to go. Shipping a motorcycle is a lot like shipping a car, with some minor differences:

  • Store extra parts: Like you would when about to transport a car, make sure that you remove any extra parts or accessories that could get damaged during shipment. Most shipping companies do not include these extra parts in the price of shipping, so make sure that you make separate arrangements for these pieces.
  • Tune-it up: Double check your bike to make sure everything is in working order, so that it will be drivable once you reach your destination. This step should include checking tire pressure, fluid levels, and the battery.
  • Clean it: Make sure the bike is clean, taking special care to wipe down any parts that may have mud or grease.
  • Drain fluids: Some carriers require that all flammable liquids be drained from the vehicle prior to transport. Others recommend keeping the gas tank ¼ full so the bike can be easily moved once it’s delivered. Make sure to check with your carrier for guidance.
  • Document it: U-Ship recommends thoroughly documenting the condition of the bike prior to the carrier arrival. This includes taking pictures of the motorcycle and making notes of any existing damage prior to pick-up.
  • Crate it: Most professional shipping companies will take care of this step for you, placing your bike in its own crate so that it doesn’t get knocked over during shipment. If you are moving the bike yourself, make sure it is properly crated to go inside of your moving truck, or use adequate tie-downs to secure the bike to your trailer.

4. Discover New Roads

Once you’ve unpacked your boxes and unloaded your motorcycle, it’s time to hit the open road again. Now you can decompress by taking a ride and exploring the highways and byways of your new hometown or state.

 

 

The Best Rides in the Texas Hill Country

The best roads for motorcycle riding are paved, scenic, and offer some twists or curves along the way. Texas, and particularly the Texas Hill Country, offers bikers perfect stretches of pavement to experience the joy of hugging curves while taking in the sweeping views. Here are three of our favorite weekend trips: The Twisted Sisters […]

Our Five Favorite Toy Haulers to Transport You and Your Bike

Increasingly, motorcycle enthusiasts are scooping up special RVs, called toy haulers, that enable them to easily bring their bikes along on long road trips. Live in Florida, but want to experience the thrill of the wind in your hair on the Pacific Coast Highway? Simply hitch up your toy hauler, load in your motorcycles, and […]