If you’re shopping for motorcycle insurance, chances are you’ve asked yourself a serious question:

"Why is motorcycle insurance so expensive — and how is it even legal to quote me this much?"

We recently came across a post from a 23-year-old rider who got a shocking quote:

• $22,350 per year for full coverage on a 2019 Kawasaki ZX6R.
• Meanwhile, basic liability-only insurance was only $600 per year.

They had good riding history (since 2019) and only one speeding ticket (removed).

Naturally, the question came up:

How can insurance possibly cost more than the bike itself?

Let’s break this down clearly — especially if you live or ride in California, where similar realities apply.

Why Motorcycle Insurance Can Be Outrageously Expensive

Insurance Companies Use Risk Data — Not Just Your Personal Info

Insurance pricing isn't based only on your age or driving record.

It’s built around data: how often bikes like yours are stolen, crashed, written off as a total loss, and what repairs cost when things go wrong.

For motorcycles like the ZX6R, the data shows:

• High accident rates (especially for riders under 30)
• High theft rates (easy targets for thieves)
• Expensive parts and repairs after crashes
• Greater likelihood of serious injury claims

Insurance companies don't "guess" — they calculate based on past real-world payouts.

Newer Sport Bikes Cost More to Insure

A 2019 ZX6R is a lot newer than, say, a 2006 CBR1000RR or a 2008 Shadow 750.

Older bikes are cheaper to replace — and cheaper to repair.

Newer bikes =

• Higher retail value
• More expensive parts
• Higher chance they get totaled after an accident

Where You Live Matters — A Lot

The original poster lived 15 minutes south of Atlanta — a dense metro area with:

• Higher rates of vehicle theft
• More traffic
• More accident claims

In California, it’s the same story.

If you live in Los Angeles, Oakland, or anywhere heavily populated, motorcycle insurance will be much higher than if you lived in a small suburban or rural area.

Insurance companies heavily factor in your ZIP code.

Financing Changes Everything

If you finance your motorcycle:

• You must carry full coverage (liability + comprehensive + collision).
• Full coverage premiums include costs for theft, fire, vandalism, weather damage, and total loss.

If you owned the bike outright, you could opt for liability-only (which, in this case, was quoted at just $600/year).

Financing = more protection = higher insurance costs.

Key Takeaways from Real Riders' Comments

Shop Around Aggressively

One commenter mentioned being quoted $1100/month by one company, but only $250/month by another major carrier.

That’s real.

Different companies calculate risk differently.

Understand That Some Quotes Are "Sticker Quotes"

Sometimes companies will throw out sky-high quotes when they don’t really want to insure that risk — but they have to legally offer something.

Theft and Total Loss Play Huge Roles

Comprehensive coverage (theft, vandalism, weather) adds a big chunk to your full coverage rate — especially for popular, easy-to-steal bikes like the ZX6R.

Statistical Data Overrules Feelings

Insurance companies are basing quotes on historical data — even if you personally have a clean record.

What You Can Do About It

Shop Multiple Companies

Never settle for the first quote you get.

Farmers – Young Douglas can help you compare your motorcycle insurance options across several carriers in California.

Consider an Older, Paid-Off Bike

If you can avoid financing, you can carry liability-only — dramatically lowering your costs.

Take a Certified Motorcycle Safety Course

Many insurance companies offer discounts if you pass an approved safety class.

Adjust Your Coverage Smartly

You can lower premiums by:

• Raising your deductibles
• Removing optional coverages you don’t really need
• Setting realistic limits for collision/comprehensive

Be Honest About How You Use the Bike

Occasional weekend riders pay less than daily commuters.

If you don't ride every day, let your insurer know.

Park Smart

Garaged, locked motorcycles cost less to insure than bikes left on the street.