Motorcycle Insurance
Japanese motorcycle insurance in North Carolina
Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki make up the majority of motorcycles on NC roads. From first-bike 300s to liter-class superbikes, the right coverage depends on what you ride and how you ride it.
Get a Motorcycle QuoteCall (919) 249-8448The Big Four Japanese brands in NC
Honda, Kawasaki, Yamaha, and Suzuki account for the majority of motorcycles registered in North Carolina. Their product range is broader than any other manufacturer group:
- ·Honda: CB300R, CB500F/X, CB650R, Africa Twin, Gold Wing, CB1000R, CBR series
- ·Kawasaki: Z400, Ninja 400, Ninja 650, Z650, Z900, ZX-6R, ZX-10R, Vulcan series, H2
- ·Yamaha: MT-03, MT-07, MT-09, YZF-R3, YZF-R7, YZF-R1, VMAX, Tracer 9, Ténéré 700
- ·Suzuki: SV650, GSX-8S, GSX-R series, V-Strom 650/1050, Hayabusa
How displacement affects rates
Within the Japanese brands, displacement and model class create enormous rate variation. A Honda Grom and a Kawasaki H2R are both Japanese motorcycles, they do not rate anything alike.
| Category | Example models | Rate tier |
|---|---|---|
| Beginner/small | CB300R, Ninja 400, MT-03, SV650 | Lowest |
| Middleweight | CB650R, Z900, MT-07, GSX-8S | Moderate |
| Supersport/superbike | ZX-10R, R1, GSX-R1000, CBR1000RR | Highest |
| Touring/cruiser | Gold Wing, Vulcan, V-Star, V-Strom | Low to moderate |
New rider guidance
If you are new to motorcycles, the bike you choose has a significant impact on your insurance costs and your risk profile. A few things that matter:
- ·Complete the MSF course. It qualifies you for discounts with most carriers and waives the DMV skills test for your endorsement.
- ·Start lower displacement. A Ninja 400 or SV650 is an excellent first bike. A year of clean riding on a smaller bike can meaningfully lower rates when you upgrade.
- ·Get your endorsement before purchasing. Some carriers require a valid motorcycle endorsement before binding coverage.
- ·Consider comprehensive even on a used bike. Theft happens in NC regardless of bike age.
Cooper's take
Japanese bikes are the most common thing I quote. The range is enormous, someone calling about a Gold Wing is a completely different conversation than someone calling about a ZX-10R, even though both are technically Kawasaki or Honda. Ask about the specific model, not the brand, when you shop.
For new riders: please take the MSF course before or immediately after you buy the bike. It is one day of your weekend and it actively saves lives. It also saves money on insurance. That combination is unusual enough to be worth noting.
Cooper Parsons, NC License #19272643
Frequently asked questions
Are Japanese motorcycles cheaper to insure than European brands?
Generally yes, for comparable displacement and model class. Japanese bikes have broader parts availability, lower repair costs, and established insurance market data. A Honda CB500F and a Triumph Trident of similar displacement will often rate differently, with the Honda coming in lower in most cases.
What is the cheapest motorcycle to insure in North Carolina?
Small-displacement beginner bikes like the Honda CB300R, Kawasaki Z400, Yamaha MT-03, and Suzuki SV650 are among the most affordable to insure. Low displacement, lower replacement cost, and the tendency of these bikes to attract riders who are more conservative all contribute to lower premiums.
Does MSF course completion reduce motorcycle insurance rates in NC?
Yes. Most NC motorcycle carriers offer a discount for completing the Motorcycle Safety Foundation Basic RiderCourse. The discount varies by carrier, typically 5% to 15%. The course is also required for riders who want to waive the DMV skills test when getting their motorcycle endorsement.
Is the Honda Grom or similar mini-bike insured as a motorcycle?
The Honda Grom (125cc) is typically insured under a motorcycle policy since it requires a motorcycle endorsement to ride legally on NC roads. Rates are low given the small displacement and low value. Confirm registration and endorsement requirements with your local DMV, as micro-bikes can vary in classification.
Can a first-time rider get coverage on a 600cc or 1000cc sport bike?
Coverage is available, but rates will be significantly higher for a new rider on a high-performance bike. Some carriers will decline based on the combination of new rider and high-displacement sport bike. Starting with a 300cc to 500cc bike for your first year or two builds a riding record and lowers rates meaningfully on future upgrades.
Written & Reviewed By
Cooper Parsons
Owner & Licensed Independent Insurance Agent
NC License #19272643 · IronHaven Insurance · Wake Forest, NC · 25+ carriers
“Cooper saved me a TON of money while finding even better coverage for my home and auto. He is a solid person who cares about his clients. I'd rate him 500 stars if I could!”
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Wake Forest, NC · Home & Auto
“Cooper worked with us when we thought we were all out of options for house insurance. He was able to help us get our home insured with a better package. So thankful for his communication and hard work!”
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Wake Forest, NC · Home Insurance
“Cooper is the partner you want to walk alongside you. He is an excellent teacher, a delight to work with. He's earned my trust, and he'll earn yours as well.”
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North Carolina · Insurance Client
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