Winter Break: Suspending Motorcycle Use During the Winter Months
Many motorcyclists don’t ride in the winter. Cold weather, slippery roads, snow, rain, and fog increase the risk of accidents, and besides, riding a motorcycle is simply more enjoyable in the sun. With this in mind, insurers have developed motorcycle insurance policies that include a winter hiatus. But is that really a wise decision? How much can you save, and what should you keep in mind if you’re going on vacation with your motorcycle?
What does a winter break entail?
Motorcycling is mainly done during the months when the weather is nice. With a motorcycle insurance policy that includes a winter hiatus, the insurance does not provide coverage during the winter months. This period usually runs from December 15 to March 1, but sometimes from December 1 to March 1 (depending on the insurer).
During the winter break, the following applies:
Driving risks are not covered
If you do end up driving on public roads and cause damage, you are not insured—not even for damage to others.
Theft and parking risks are covered
What if your motorcycle is in the garage and a fire breaks out, or if your motorcycle is stolen? In that case, you're covered if you have limited comprehensive or all-risk coverage.
RDW Suspension Under Winter Break Coverage
Normally, you must de-register your motorcycle with the RDW if it is not insured. If you do not do so, the insurance requirement remains in effect and you risk a fine.
However, if you opt for winter storage coverage, your insurance will remain in effect (storage, fire, and theft are covered, but driving risks are not). This means you’ll meet the insurance requirement and won’t need to suspend your license plate separately during that period.
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What is the financial benefit?
Motorcycle insurance with a winter hiatus can be financially attractive, because you don’t ride in the winter and therefore don’t cause any accidents. For the insurer, this means a lower risk, which translates into a discount on the premium.
Many insurers offer a discount of about 10% on the main coverage (Third-Party Liability,Third-Party Liability Plus, orComprehensive) throughout the year. In addition, there are several types of winter suspension:
- Winter Break Coverage: The motorcycle is not insured from December 1 through March 1.
- Summer Time Coverage: The motorcycle is not insured from the last Sunday in October through the last Sunday in March.
Because the coverage period is longer with summer-time coverage, the premium is generally even lower. With some insurers, the difference compared to annual coverage can amount to tens of percent. Keep in mind, however, that there are additional costs: if you have your license plate suspended with the RDW outside of a “winter break” arrangement, you’ll pay €24 for this.
Disadvantages of a winter break
A major drawback is that you can’t just use the motor in the winter, not even in an emergency. For example, if your car won’t start and you still have to get to an appointment. Besides, the seasons are changing: winters are often mild these days, so the weather in December can sometimes be lovely for driving.
For motorcyclists who want flexibility, annual coverage may be a better option. That way, you can decide for yourself when to hit the road, with no restrictions.
Going on Vacation by Motorcycle
Dutch motorcycle insurance also provides coverage abroad. As long as you stay within Europe, you’re insured. Outside of Europe, you’re also covered in most countries. In the event of an accident, you can contact the insurer’s emergency number even when abroad. However, motorcycle insurance does not cover breakdowns while traveling. For this, you can opt for travel insurance that includes breakdown assistance abroad. The coverage under your motorcycle insurance also applies abroad. To insure your luggage and cover health risks, you can purchase travel insurance.
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