Motorbike track day insurance
At a track day, you liberate your bike from the rules of the road. It’s a chance to hit the racetrack and feel the sheer exhilaration of riding at speed, along with the camaraderie of the biker community. If you’re thinking about giving it a try, here are the facts about motorbike track day insurance.
At a track day, you liberate your bike from the rules of the road. It’s a chance to hit the racetrack and feel the sheer exhilaration of riding at speed, along with the camaraderie of the biker community. If you’re thinking about giving it a try, here are the facts about motorbike track day insurance.
Does my regular motorbike insurance cover track days?
No, it’s very unlikely that your standard motorbike insurance policy covers you for riding your bike during track days.
There’s no speed limit on a motorbike track – only your common sense. When you push your limits, you’ll reach speeds that would be illegal on the road. To put things into perspective, the Honda Fireblade (one of the most common bikes on UK roads) has a top speed of 186 mph.
Speeds like these make track riding a risky sport – and it’s not surprising that insurance providers don’t want to cover this risk as part of standard bike insurance.
Is motorbike insurance for track days a legal requirement?
There are several companies across the UK that run track days for riders, from novice to advanced. Some track day organisers may have a policy that requires riders to take out extra insurance, but it’s not a legal requirement. At many track days, you’ll be riding entirely at your own risk.
Is motorbike insurance for track days a good idea?
When you go to a motorbike track day, you’re accepting some level of risk – as you do whenever you get on your bike or behind the wheel of a car. You can’t guarantee that you won’t injure yourself, but you can ensure that you’ll get financial compensation if you damage or write off your bike.
If you can’t afford to replace your bike, an accident at a track day could take you off the road permanently. Insurance means you’ll be able to fully enjoy the day without that worry in the back of your mind.
| Did you know? Track days aren’t competitive, so racing isn’t allowed. They’re an opportunity to enjoy your bike and develop your riding skills in a controlled environment. Some circuits also provide tuition from professional instructors to help you get the most out of your on-track experience. |
What can you do to safely enjoy a track day?
As you’d expect, safety at track days is the most important consideration. While it’s important to enjoy yourself, always stay sensible. These are our tips on how to make the most of your day safely:
- Be prepared for the difference - even if you’re an expert on the road, don’t assume you’ll be comfortable on the track. There are new skills to learn before you can go all-out.
- Don’t exaggerate your experience - riders are grouped according to ability. For your safety, make sure the organisers have accurate information to place you in the right group.
- Ease yourself in gently - build your speed with each lap as your tyres warm, and always drive within your limits.
- Take breaks when you need to - if you feel you’re tiring or your bike is straining, take a rest and cool off.
| Top tip If you don’t fancy using your own bike, many event organisers provide track bikes for hire on the day that are suitable for circuit riding. Check before hiring to find out whether they have their own insurance in place. |
Where can I get track day motorbike insurance?
We don’t offer track day insurance at Compare the Market, but there are some specialist insurance providers that will.
When you shop around for track day insurance, remember that policies vary. Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Compare what’s covered and check the limits and excess.
Frequently asked questions
What type of licence do I need to ride on a UK track?
Depending on the circuit and bike, you may need a Category A2, an unrestricted Category A motorcycle licence or a current ACU licence. There may also be age restrictions – most circuits state you must be 18 or over, while for an unrestricted Category A licence you must be at least 21 years old if you’ve held an A2 licence for at least two years.
What capacity bike can I ride on a track day?
Most circuits only permit bikes with a minimum engine capacity of 125cc to take part in track days. They must also be in road or track-worthy condition, according to the event organiser’s regulations. This includes obeying the noise limits set by each circuit. Some circuits also require your bike to be fitted with front brake lever guards before you can take it on the track.
Which UK circuits hold track days?
Track days are hosted by a number of venues across the UK, offering participants of all levels (novice, intermediate and advanced) the chance to ride on the same circuits as MotoGP greats like Rossi, Marquez and Stoner.
Popular track day venues include:
- Silverstone
- Brands Hatch
- Donington Park
- Cadwell Park
- Oulton Park
- Knockhill
- Anglesey
Just be aware that each venue has its own rules and regulations, so check them before booking.
What does specialist track day motorbike insurance cover?
It depends on the policy, but typically cover could include:
- Collision/accidental damage to your bike while on the track
- Fire damage after an accident on the track
- Theft of your bike while at the track
- Costs of repairing or replacing your bike while taking part in a track day
Some insurance providers also offer additional cover that you can add to your policy, for example:
- Vehicle recovery cover for circuits in England, Scotland and Wales
- Multi-track day insurance – up to 10 specified track days on one policy
- In-transit cover for your bike while it’s on a trailer being taken to or from the circuit
- Helmet and leathers cover
- Cover for European and worldwide circuits
It’s also worth noting that some providers may offer a discount if you’re a member of certain sporting clubs or associations like Motorsport UK.
What’s not covered by specialist track day motorbike insurance?
Typical exclusions may include:
- Third-party liability – damage or injury to other riders
- Competitive riding
- Accidental damage that was not caused on the track
- Riding on public roads
- Mechanical breakdown
- Bodywork damage caused by ‘gravel rash’ – sliding into the gravel
Be sure to read the policy terms and conditions carefully before you buy, so you know exactly what’s covered and what’s excluded.
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