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How Does Bike Modification Impact Two-wheeler Insurance?
Bike lovers who mainly live in cities can easily opt for various modifications to elevate their two-wheeler’s aesthetic value. Various local garages to seasoned professionals around the town provide these services at attractive costs. But did you know that your vehicle’s insurance premium might get affected owing to specific customisations?
This article will give you a brief idea of how bike modifications affect bike insurance.
How Bike Insurance Premium is Affected by Bike Modifications?
In simple words, it does. Whenever you make changes to your bike, the insurance company evaluates the motive behind doing so. Typically, the impact of bike modification on bike insurance is positive when you have chosen safety enhancements.
Similarly, many bikers desire to elevate their bike’s engine output or significantly change its physical structure. Depending on the extent of refurbishment, the consequent premium amounts for insurance are bound to vary. Therefore, you should know the consequences and maintain a healthy mix of modifications.
What Are Various Types of Bike Modifications & Their Impact on Bike Insurance?
The following table provides you with a clear idea about how bike insurance premium is affected by bike modification:
| Type of Modification | Purpose | Impact on Insurance Premium |
| Performance Modifications | These changes favour you to achieve more speed while riding. Also, it includes developments that lead to fuel-efficient systems. | Premium prices go up as the insurance companies evaluate more risk associated with higher speeds. |
| Visual Modifications | Modifications under this head are intended to uplift your bike’s aesthetic value. As a result, its overall market value also rises. | An insurance company can request more premium amounts against a fixed coverage as visual enhancements increase the risk of theft. |
| Modifications for the Disabled | Differently-abled riders decide to go for these modifications so that they can ride at ease. | Insurers usually give an additional discount to encourage such people. |
| Security Modifications | Security upgrades like chain and padlock combinations, throttle locks, etc., reduce the likelihood of your vehicle’s valuable components getting stolen. | These alterations are highly supportive when your priority is to get a discounted insurance plan. It not only saves money in the long run but also gives you peace of mind. |
| External Fittings | Outer attachments like a luggage carrier are meant for more convenient journeys. | Premiums increase as your bike’s market value increases, and the insurer needs to adjust coverage accordingly. |
What Things Do You Need to Disclose While Planning to Get Bike Modification?
It is crucial to abide by specific regulations while planning to opt for bike modifications. Here you can take a look at them:
1. Local Regulations
Specific vehicle modifications demand special certifications or permissions in many regions. Hence, it is recommended to conduct thorough research before proceeding; otherwise, you may need to pay hefty fines. In the worst-case scenario, the authorised body can seize your vehicle.
2. Purpose of Modification
Local modifying hubs or garages are well aware of the rules. So, you must communicate your expectations efficiently to them to get the best-suited alterations. The experts consider your budget and try to integrate safety mechanisms that are compatible with your bike model.
3. Disclosure to RTO
Check your local RTO’s website or consider visiting the RTO rooms to have a fair idea of what you are getting into. Disclosing modding specifics to the registered personnel is mandatory to avoid fines.
4. Notifying the Insurance Company
Several modifications have a noteworthy impact on your insurance premium. Thus, you should keep track of all the upgrades and disclose them to your insurer while renewing the policy. It ensures hassle-free claiming in the future.
Finally, most bike manufacturing companies recommend avoiding modifications, especially when the bike is under warranty. This provision is valid as modifications can attract unexpected repair costs. Hence, you can speak with your bike dealer if you need clarification.
Now that you clearly understand how bike modifications affect bike insurance, you can make better decisions based on model compatibility. Not all bikes can accommodate an intended modification. Therefore, it is important to do sufficient research to avoid safety issues and higher premiums in the long run.
FAQs about the Impact of Bike Modifications on Insurance Premium
What is not covered by bike insurance?
A vehicle loss caused by one's mistake, like a theft from the carelessness of leaving behind the ignition key, will not be covered by insurance.
Does changing the colour of a bike affect insurance?
Possibly, yes, as a colour change elevates your bike’s aesthetic appeal, and thus, your vehicle is evaluated at a greater risk of theft.
Are custom bikes legal in India?
As long as you have certification from your local RTO, you can avail of permissible modifications to enhance the beauty and performance of your bike.