Renewing your bike insurance is often treated as a last-minute task. Many two wheeler owners simply renew their policy online without checking the details. This casual approach can lead to higher premiums, poor coverage, or claim rejection later.
Bike insurance renewal is the best time to review your policy, correct errors, and improve protection. Small mistakes during renewal can cost you money and peace of mind. With rising repair costs and traffic risks, having the right bike insurance coverage is very important.
In this article, we explain the most common bike insurance renewal mistakes to avoid. These points will help you renew your two wheeler insurance the right way and stay protected on Indian roads.
1. Renewing the Policy Without Reviewing Coverage
One of the most common mistakes is renewing your bike insurance without checking the coverage.
Over time, your bike’s value reduces. Your riding pattern may also change. Renewing the same policy every year may result in unnecessary premium or inadequate protection.
Always review:
- Policy type
- Coverage benefits
- Insured Declared Value (IDV)
- Add-on covers
A quick review helps you choose the right protection for your bike.
2. Letting the Bike Insurance Policy Expire
Missing the renewal date is a serious mistake.
If your bike insurance policy expires:
- You lose continuous coverage
- No Claim Bonus may be lost
- Vehicle inspection becomes mandatory
- Claims will not be accepted
Riding without valid bike insurance is illegal in India. Set renewal reminders or choose auto-renewal to avoid policy lapse.
3. Losing No Claim Bonus (NCB)
No Claim Bonus is a reward for safe riding and no claims.
Common reasons for NCB loss include:
- Renewing the policy after the grace period
- Providing incorrect information
- Claiming small repair expenses
NCB can reduce your premium by up to 50 percent. Always check your NCB details before renewing your bike insurance.
4. Not Comparing Bike Insurance Plans
Many riders renew with the same insurer without comparing options.
This can result in:
- Higher premiums
- Limited add-on covers
- Average claim service
Comparing bike insurance plans during renewal helps you get better coverage at competitive prices. You can switch insurers without losing NCB.
5. Choosing the Wrong IDV
Insured Declared Value (IDV) is the maximum amount paid if your bike is stolen or declared a total loss.
Common mistakes include:
- Selecting very low IDV to reduce premium
- Choosing high IDV without understanding its impact
Low IDV means lower claim payout. High IDV increases premium unnecessarily. Always select IDV close to your bike’s current market value.
6. Ignoring Important Add-On Covers
Skipping add-ons to save a small amount on premium is not a good idea.
Basic bike insurance may not cover many real-world expenses.
Useful add-ons include:
- Zero depreciation cover
- Engine protection cover
- Roadside assistance
- Consumables cover
These add-ons reduce out-of-pocket expenses during claims.
7. Not Updating Personal or Vehicle Details
Incorrect details can cause claim delays or rejection.
Details that should be updated include:
- Address and mobile number
- Bike modifications
- Change in usage pattern
Always keep your bike insurance policy information accurate.
8. Choosing the Cheapest Policy Only
Selecting a policy only based on price is a common mistake.
Cheapest policies may have:
- Limited coverage
- High deductibles
- Fewer network garages
Focus on value instead of just premium. Choose a policy that balances coverage, service quality, and cost.
9. Skipping Vehicle Inspection
If your policy has expired or you are switching insurers, vehicle inspection may be required.
Skipping inspection can:
- Delay policy issuance
- Affect future claim eligibility
Complete inspection on time to ensure smooth renewal.
10. Not Reading Policy Terms and Exclusions
Many claim issues happen because riders do not read the policy document.
Policy terms clearly mention:
- Inclusions and exclusions
- Claim conditions
- Deductibles and limits
Reading these details during renewal helps avoid surprises later.
How to Renew Bike Insurance the Right Way
Follow these simple steps:
- Renew before policy expiry
- Review coverage and add-ons
- Check No Claim Bonus details
- Compare bike insurance plans
- Select correct IDV
- Update all personal and vehicle details
These steps help you stay protected and save money.
Final Thoughts
Bike insurance renewal is not just a routine task. It is an opportunity to correct mistakes and improve your coverage. Avoiding common bike insurance renewal mistakes helps you save money, enjoy smoother claims, and stay legally compliant.
Always renew your bike insurance on time, review your policy carefully, and choose coverage that suits your riding needs. A smart renewal decision ensures safe and stress-free rides throughout the year.