Modifications and/or Accessories

[David.]

If you modify your bike or add accessories, do you declare them to your insurer.

I would define a modification as something which has the potential to alter the performance, e.g. air filter, re-mapping, Booster Plug or exhaust system/silencer.

Whereas, an accessory would be something like a GPS unit, Autocom, screen or other FARKLE, (Fancy, Accessory, Really, Kool, Likely, Expensive).

[Stu]

Depends what it is and who the insurance is with as most companies cover most accessories and modifications without having to declare them

[David.]

There does seem to be an insurance industry standard generic list of modifications/accessories which are acceptable to most insurers, without increase in risk or premium to be paid.

Perhaps the best policy is, if in doubt, ask the question, don't give the insurers any "wriggle room".

[Stu]

Insurance is a funny one as if you declare them they sometimes charge more but then only replace the standard stuff in case of exhausts and levers etc


But if you don't declare them then they won't pay out for them!


It doesn't void insurance but it can make it harder to claim if that part caused the accident

[David.]

In this article from Devitt, https://www.devittinsurance.com/motorbi ... ification/ they explain, "what’s the difference between a modification and an accessory on my motorcycle and how will it impact my insurance."

This definition seems simple enough to understand.

An accessory is generally part of your motorcycle which is not directly related to how it works.

A modification is therefore changes to your machine that change the performance and / or handling of your motorbike

[Stu]

This definition seems simple enough to understand.

An accessory is generally part of your motorcycle which is not directly related to how it works.

A modification is therefore changes to your machine that change the performance and / or handling of your motorbike

Heres one for you then!


Tyres!


Modification or not?


Some insurance companies want to know if you use a different brand and model from what was supplied with the bike and they class it as a modification


Personally I think this is ridiculous

[David.]

Tyres can change the handling of your motorbike, therefore, as per Devitt are a modification.

However, White Dalton Motorcycle (Specialist) Solicitors, https://www.whitedalton.co.uk/motorbike ... d-to-know/ say,

"An Insurer should not refuse to pay out if you replace your OE tyres with stickier rubber, because tyres are consumables and get replaced. Replacing a rotted OE exhaust pipe with a fire breathing Akro or Beowulf is a declarable motorbike modification. Tyres or sidestand extenders are not."

Whilst still available, I'll continue to use a tyre from the BMW Motorrad "approved" list for my 2012 Camhead.

[Our Gee]

One of the modifications which some of the more adventures RT owners have carried out is the removal of the ABS Pump which I understand can be troublesome on some models. I can see that in this situation an Insurer would perhaps to reluctant to offer cover.  Also if this "modification" was not declared and an accident occurred which could be construed as partly or wholly caused by a lack of effective braking performance then coverage might well be refused. What do you think ?.

[Steve398]

Tyres can change the handling of your motorbike, therefore, as per Devitt are a modification.

However, White Dalton Motorcycle (Specialist) Solicitors, https://www.whitedalton.co.uk/motorbike-blog/2018/08/does-my-insurer-need-to-know/ say,

"An Insurer should not refuse to pay out if you replace your OE tyres with stickier rubber, because tyres are consumables and get replaced. Replacing a rotted OE exhaust pipe with a fire breathing Akro or Beowulf is a declarable motorbike modification. Tyres or sidestand extenders are not."

Whilst still available, I'll continue to use a tyre from the BMW Motorrad "approved" list for my 2012 Camhead.

A few years ago whilst the proud owner of a Kawasaki ZX10 I replaced the rotted but hideously expensive but mild steel system with a stainless system from Motad (I did say some years ago). When it came time to re-insure with a well known insurance group they initially declined to insure, so I spoke to one of their agents explaining that it was Motad's proud boast that it added no more noise nor power than the original, but she still said no.
I then asked if she had a car?
Yes, a Vauxhall
Have you changed the exhaust?
Yes
Did you fit a genuine Vauxhall exhaust from the dealer?
No, Kwikfit.... Ah, I see where you're going with this.
Hey presto. A quick chat with someone up the chain and the Insurance cover was offered.




In regard to tyres - I can see no sense in sticking to a particular 'approved' model of tyre as quoted in an old handbook, tyre technology moves on. I can understand using the updated model from the same manufacturer though... if in doubt speak to the dealer.

[Levisp]

In regard to tyres - I can see no sense in sticking to a particular 'approved' model of tyre as quoted in an old handbook, tyre technology moves on. I can understand using the updated model from the same manufacturer though... if in doubt speak to the dealer.

Totally agree. I think common sense is required when it comes to tyres. I would have no issue fitting the latest touring tyre that was listed by the tyre manufacturer as suitable for my bike. If an insurance company started to refuse a claim because the tyres on your bike were not those specified in the handbook then I think I would with the help of the manufacturer enjoy the court case. The key thing here is that the tyre manufacturer has listed the tyre as suitable. I would not put the ordinary PR5 on my bike only PR5 GT that are specifically made for the heavier touring bike. Likewise you don't put race slicks on a road sports bike. However having said all of that I think certain European countries have different rules. I thinking of Germany. I'm sure I have read some where that its illegal to have a tyre fitted that is not approved. Approved by who I don't know. That's for German registered vehicles. Maybe someone who lives in Germany can clarify.

[David.]

I have a Booster Plug (potential performance modification) fitted to my RT, it wasn't declared to Carole Nash (Broker) at the recent renewal of the policy.

I've now had some correspondence with CN, they referred it to their underwriting team and have confirmed that this will be acceptable on the policy and there will be no premium alterations for this inclusion. The insurers are Ageas.

Better to be safe than sorry.

I can't see them "arguing the toss" over tyres.

[Gavj]

I insured my Triumph Tiger, few years back, with Bikesure who are a part of Adrian Flux, declared the K&N filter & the Beowulf end can..... no charge.

[David.]

Looks like honesty is the best policy.