Bike Trader

WE'VE teamed up with specialist motorbike insurers, Bikesure, to offer one lucky winner a year’s free motorbike insurance.

SCROLL DOWN TO ENTER THE COMPETITION

But before you enter the competition, we've interviewed Robert Balls, who is the Sales and Underwriting manager at Bikesure to ask him more about Bikesure's insurance policies for bikers and the latest trends and where we might be able to make some savings or simply get a better policy.

Has there been any changes to the way in which Bikesure provides bike insurance this year?

"No, you can still purchase a policy from us in the call centre or on-line and by several payment options too."

Have you seen a recent boost in premium renewals now we’re approaching the biking season?

"We’re seeing through the market increases of around 8% on last year’s rates although this would be off-set if your no claims bonus has increased or if you’ve moved into a new age bracket for example."

What are the key trends you are seeing amongst those renewing their motorcycle policies?

"Clients are clearly looking for a combination of good value and the right cover for them and are exploring options to reduce premium levels. We’re discounting for loyal customers, which obviously helps."

Is there a shift to different types of bikes? Such as adventure bikes?

"There is a lot of growth in the 125cc and below market due to a combination of factors such as petrol prices, running costs and higher car insurance premiums for younger drivers. And as you say, we’re also seeing growth in the naked and adventure bikes sector."

Do many bikers still select pillion insurance? Has this gone up or down? Are bikers not selecting it to save money on their premium?

"There has been little change here. There are savings that can be made by not having a pillion but they are often not substantial."

Are there any upcoming law changes for motorcycle insurance?

"Not that I’m aware of."

What are the five most popular claims for?

"It's a top four and as you can see there is quite a drop-off and the other stuff is too small to measure accurately.

For March 2012: • Multi Vehicle Accident = 64% • Theft 23% • Single Vehicle Accident = 12% • Fire 1%

Is there anything new that customers are asking for from their insurance?

"More customers are asking for laid up cover or short period insurance."

Have you done any customer surveys? If yes, what are the key findings?

"We do them every month and clients are asked to score us on their experience. We're proud that over 90% of customers would be prepared to recommend us to a friend - indeed that remains one of our biggest sources of new business.

January - Staff Attitude 94%, Staff Knowledge 91.7%, Helpfulness 94%, Hold time 76.4%, Overall Satisfaction 88.3%, Recommend 96.1%

February - Staff Attitude 93.2%, Staff Knowledge 89.2%, Helpfulness 92.4%, Hold time 72.9%, Overall Satisfaction 85%Recommend  96.05%

March - Staff Attitude 95.4%, Staff Knowledge 93.1%, Helpfulness 95.1%, Hold time 74.4%, Overall Satisfaction 87.9%, Reccomend 93.66%

How is Bikesure different to other insurance companies?

"Bikesure is the enthusiast's broker. Unlike some other brokers, we don't limit the number of modifications to your bike, and will look at each risk individually rather than just adopting a "computer says no" approach. There are schemes for just about anything on two wheels, as well as trikes and quads, and we'll rarely turn down cover flat, always delving deeper to see what we can offer to young riders, those with convictions or bikes a little out of the ordinary."

What does Bikesure feel is their unique strength?

"Our ability to listen to the customers individual needs or circumstances and find a policy to suit them when other’s just won’t take the time. We don’t insist on people or their pride and joy fitting into neat little boxes. That’s not what Biking or Bikesure is about."

Is Bikesure offering anything new/exciting as part of a policy this year which other insurers aren’t?

"Nobody covers the range like we do; from Scooter to Superbike, Quad, Buggy, Trike & Classics and we can offer “like for like” cover on modifications and total loss protection."

WIN free motorbike insurance for a year from Bikesure 
Enter our Bikesure competition to win a free motorbike insurance policy

Q. In 100 words or less, what would you buy with the money that you’ve saved by winning?

It can be absolutely anything – the more imaginative the better. The judges will make their decisions based on your ability to make them laugh, cry, shudder or throw up.

Simply click the magic words motorbike insurance (in blue on your left) and you’ll be taken to the page where you can submit your entry.

Best of luck with your entry and we’ll contact the winner by email the day after entries close at 23:59 on Sunday May 13th – so be sure to leave your correct email address when prompted.

There are, of course, a few terms and conditions. Read before entering.

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