Choosing the right motorbike insurance Singapore plan can be confusing, especially when balancing cost, coverage, and riding habits. For daily commuters, food-delivery riders, and leisure bikers, the decision often comes down to two main options: Third-Party Only (TPO) and Comprehensive insurance.
This comparison guide breaks down how each plan works, what they cover, and how to choose the right one based on your risk profile and long-term costs.
1. What Third-Party Motorbike Insurance Covers
Third-party insurance is the minimum legal requirement in Singapore for all motorbike owners. It covers:
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Damage to someone else’s vehicle or property
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Injury to other road users
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Legal liability arising from accidents you cause
It does not cover your own motorbike, medical bills, or personal losses.
This makes TPO attractive for lower-value bikes or riders on strict budgets.
For more insights on accident liabilities, refer to understanding motorcycle accident claims, which explains common claim scenarios involving third-party damage.
2. What Comprehensive Motorbike Insurance Covers
Comprehensive insurance includes everything in TPO, plus protection for:
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Your motorbike damage
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Theft, fire, or vandalism
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Natural disasters (depending on insurer)
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Some medical benefits and personal accident cover
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Hit-and-run incidents
Comprehensive plans are especially beneficial for newer, higher-value bikes or riders who want broader financial protection.
To learn how insurers assess motorbike risks, explore commercial vehicle vs regular motor insurance differences which outlines how coverage varies across vehicle types.
3. Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Feature | Third-Party Insurance | Comprehensive Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Liability | ✔ Covered | ✔ Covered |
| Your Bike Damage | ✘ Not covered | ✔ Covered |
| Fire & Theft | ✘ No | ✔ Yes |
| Accidents Caused by You | Only covers others | Covers you + others |
| Premium Cost | Low | Higher |
| Best For | Old bikes, minimal use | New bikes, daily riders |
4. Which Option Fits Your Risk Profile?
Choose Third-Party if:
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Your bike is older with lower market value
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You ride occasionally or short distances
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You are on a tight budget
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You accept the risk of paying for your own repairs
Choose Comprehensive if:
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Your motorbike is new or high-value
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You commute daily
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You park in open or high-risk areas
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You prefer peace of mind and financial protection
Many riders underestimate their exposure until they see real claim scenarios.
For deeper understanding, PCMI provides guidance through motorcycle accident claim denial factors, helping riders avoid costly mistakes.
5. Add-Ons Worth Considering
Regardless of plan type, you can enhance your motorbike insurance Singapore policy with:
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Personal Accident Cover, for medical expenses or disability
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24/7 Roadside Assistance
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Accessories and Modifications Cover
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Loss of Use, daily compensation while your bike is repaired
A licensed broker like PCMI helps compare add-on costs across insurers and recommends only what genuinely adds value to your riding profile.
6. Claim Support and After-Sales Service
Claims can be stressful, especially after an accident.
Working with a broker ensures:
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Faster coordination with insurers
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Accurate documentation
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Better negotiation of repair approvals
PCMI’s team supports riders end-to-end through their insurance claims assistance service, making the process smoother for both TPO and comprehensive claims.
7. Common Exclusions for Motorbike Insurance
Both Third-Party and Comprehensive plans exclude:
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Illegal modifications
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Riding without a valid licence
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Drunk or reckless riding
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Using the bike outside declared usage
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Wear and tear
Reviewing these exclusions during renewal ensures your policy aligns with your riding habits.
Conclusion: Choose Coverage That Matches Your Real-World Risks
When comparing motorbike insurance Singapore, the right plan depends on your bike’s value, riding frequency, and financial comfort level. Third-party works for older bikes and budget-focused riders, while comprehensive offers strong protection for daily or high-value use.
If you want a customised comparison based on your exact bike model and riding profile, chat with PCMI on WhatsApp and a licensed adviser will guide you through the best options.
FAQs on Motorbike Insurance Singapore
1. Is comprehensive motorbike insurance mandatory in Singapore?
No, only third-party insurance is compulsory.
2. Does comprehensive insurance cover modifications?
Only if listed in the policy. Some aftermarket parts require add-on coverage.
3. Are delivery riders eligible for comprehensive cover?
Yes, but premiums may vary depending on riding hours and operational risks.
4. Can I switch from third-party to comprehensive mid-policy?
Generally yes, but insurers may require a bike inspection.