If you are a motorcycle owner, we are sure you understand the feeling: having a motorcycle is more than just a ride - it brings freedom, tons of convenience, and sometimes even a way to support your livelihood. Did we miss something? Hopefully not.
Moving on, owning a motorcycle also comes with its own set of responsibilities and risks. The smartest rider today is the one who thinks about motorcycle protection - both in terms of accessories and insurance coverage.
In this article, we’ll break it down - discussing simple, practical ways that allow you to ride confidently every day.
Motorcycle protection: Why does it matter?
Motorcycles are quite a popular means of transportation, especially in heavy-traffic areas like Metro Manila and Davao City. You can literally spot them everywhere, but such popularity comes with its own set of risks.
Common risks motorcycle owners face
- Theft: Motorcycles are easy targets for theft; their open nature attracts more bad eyes than cars.
- Accidents: Collision and accident frequency are high.
- Weather damage: Rain, typhoons, and floods are a real risk.
Preventive measures
It is quite important to invest in accessories that provide an extra layer of protection to your bike. Similarly, opting for adequate insurance helps motorcycle owners avoid financial strain in the event of an accident or collision.
Remember, spending a little now can save you from major headaches and costs later.
Double protection: Understanding the new-age concept
You see, the idea behind protecting your motorcycle twice - with accessories and insurance is quite simple. While the former protects your bike physically, the latter offers financial security.
Physical vs financial protection
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Accessories |
Theft, accident, and collision prevention |
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Insurance |
Repair & replacement cost, liability, and total loss coverage |
While accessories offer proactive protection and help minimise risk, insurance steps in as a safety net after a mishap. One is preventive, the other acts as medication that reduces the trauma.
Also Read: What is motorcycle insurance, and why do Filipinos need it
Photo from freepikWhy do you need both?
Relying on just one accessory or insurance is like locking the door but leaving the window open. You need full coverage - inside and out.
Essential motorcycle accessories (for safety)
Let us now talk about essential safety gear every Filipino rider must consider.
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Helmets & Protective gear |
Investing in a quality helmet is not a choice but an essential lifesaving gear. Here are a few suggestions -
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Anti-theft devices |
Invest in the following devices as they’ll be your first line of defence against theft -
Remember, even a small lock can discourage thieves. |
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Visibility enhancers |
Being seen is just as important as seeing others on the road. You can go for the following visibility enhancers -
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Also Read: How wearing proper motorcycle gear helps with insurance claims
Advanced motorcycle accessories worth investing in
Are you interested in levelling up your motorcycle protection? If your answer is a YES, then here are a few options to consider -
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GPS tracking systems |
A GPS tracker helps you locate your motorcycle in case it gets stolen. Nowadays, some trackers even allow real-time tracking via a mobile application. |
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Dashcams for motorcycles |
Nowadays, we have motorcycle dashcams that record the road ahead and serve as evidence in the event of an accident or collision. |
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Smart alarms |
Modern alarm systems are a great bike accessory because they send alerts straight to your phone if someone tampers with your bike. |
Motorcycle insurance: Choosing the right coverage
Time to discuss the second layer of protection for your motorcycle - this one comes from insurance.
Third-party vs. Comprehensive insurance
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Third-party insurance |
Commonly known as CTPL insurance, it covers damages to third-party injury or death. |
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Comprehensive insurance |
It provides coverage for theft, fire, and other perils. |
Note that for most motorcycle owners, comprehensive insurance is a better choice.
Add-on coverage
For better protection, you can customise your insurance plan by opting for add-on coverages like -
- Roadside assistance
- Acts of God
- Total Loss
- Personal accident coverage
Also Read: Smart insurance tips for Filipinos buying used motorcycles
Motorcycle accessories and insurance cost
Installing safety accessories on your bike can actually help lower your insurance premium. Yes, that’s true.
Insurance providers appreciate accessories that enhance your vehicle’s safety. Here are a few items you can opt for -
- GPS tracking system
- Anti-theft devices
Furthermore, if you ensure a secure parking spot, the insurer is likely to count you in their good books, as it reduces the risk of theft and accidental damage.
All this - accessories and a secure parking spot- is usually rewarded with a discount.
Also Read: 6 Essential documents you need when filing a motorcycle insurance claim in the Philippines
Photo from FreepikEasy-to-follow tips for motorcycle owners (for improving safety)
Being a motorcycle owner is quite a challenge, especially with all that traffic and floods. Here are a few tips to stay ahead and make things more secure.
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Tip#1. Weather preparedness |
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Tip#2. Parking safety |
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Tip#3. Proper maintenance |
Protection is not just about accessories and insurance. Regular maintenance plays a big role in improving your bike's safety. Invest in regular checkups that must include brake inspection, tyre check, and oil change. |
Cost breakdown: Motorcycle accessories & insurance
Time to talk about money, it’s kind of important to make a final call, right? Here’s an estimated breakdown of the cost -
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Item |
Estimated cost |
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Helmet |
PHP 3K to PHP 90K |
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GPS Tracker |
PHP1K to PHP 5K |
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Locks & alarms |
PHP 500 to PHP 3K |
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Insurance |
PHP 3K to PHP 15K/year |
Remember, spending up front will help you avoid legal liabilities, costly repairs, and total loss due to theft.
Also Read: 10 Powerful tips for faster motorcycle insurance claim approval in the Philippines
Mistakes motorcycle owners must avoid
Here are some common mistakes that motorcycle owners usually commit and regret later -
Skipping insurance: Many riders make the mistake of thinking, “I’ll be careful, comprehensive insurance is not required”. But the fact is, accidents can happen to anyone, anytime.
Buying cheap gear: Low-quality accessories can break at any time, leaving you helpless.
Real-life scenarios
Theft recovery success
A rider in Metro Manila recovered his stolen motorcycle within hours, all thanks to the GPS tracker.
Accident coverage
A rider involved in a major accident got full coverage for repair, all thanks to comprehensive insurance.
Also Read: Top motorcycle insurance add-ons every Filipino rider should consider
Bottom line
It is a fact that riding a motorcycle in the Philippines is both exciting and practical. However, being a motorcycle owner comes with its own set of risks. That’s why the smarter choice is to protect your vehicle adequately, both by adding accessories and getting adequate insurance coverage.
You should think of motorcycle accessories as a protective shield and insurance as a safety net. And when the two are combined, you don’t just protect your bike but secure your peace of mind.
Last but not least, make sure to maintain your motorcycle well, as a well-maintained vehicle is less likely to fail when you need it the most.
Also Read: Personal Accident Coverage for riders in the Philippines: Why it matters
FAQs
Q1. Why are motorcycle insurance and accessories considered essential?
Ans. Both motorcycle insurance and accessories are crucial for owners, as the former ensures financial safety and the latter physical security. Together, the two cover all possible risks.
Q2. What is the best motorcycle anti-theft device?
Ans. The best protection is offered by a system that combines a GPS tracker and a disc lock.
Q3. How much does motorcycle insurance cost in the Philippines?
Ans. Motorcycle insurance typically ranges from PHP 3,000 to PHP 15,000 annually, depending on coverage.
Q4. Do motorcycle accessories lower insurance premiums?
Ans. Yes, usually safety features like trackers & alarms help reduce costs.
Q5. How often should I maintain my motorcycle?
Ans. It is recommended to have your motorcycle serviced regularly; a full service should be performed every 3 to 6 months.
Also Read: Riding to work every day? This motorcycle insurance has you covered