Minnesota is home to more than 230,000 registered motorcycle riders. If you’re ready to join them, make sure you have a motorcycle insurance policy and a clear understanding of the state’s rules of the road.
All motorcycle riders in Minnesota must have a motorcycle permit or endorsement on their driver’s license and are required to carry proof of insurance while riding. The Minnesota Department of Traffic Safety has also established the following requirements for motorcycle riders in the state:
Eye protection: Riders and passengers are required to wear eye protection at all times, even if the motorcycle has a windshield.
Helmets: All riders and passengers under 18 years of age must wear a helmet.
Headlights: Your bike needs at least one headlight, but no more than four. Keep your headlight on when driving. You can use modulating headlights during daylight hours.
Taillights: A red or yellow taillight is required.
Brakes: Your motorcycle must have a hand or foot brake.
Horn: Your motorcycle is required to have a functioning horn.
Mirrors: Your bike must have at least one rear-view mirror.
Mufflers: Your bike must have a muffler in good working order. The muffler needs to blend the exhaust noise into the overall vehicle noise, and the exhaust system must not emit or produce a sharp popping or crackling sound.
Passengers: All passengers must have dedicated seats and footrests
In Minnesota, everyone who operates a motorcycle must meet the following minimum requirements on their motorcycle insurance coverages:
$30,000 for bodily injury liability or death of one individual
$60,000 for bodily injury liability per accident or death of more than one individual
$10,000 for property damage liability per accident
Our motorcycle insurance recommendations can help.
Yes—you can add several additional coverages to your policy. Because the required minimum coverage limits listed above could leave you vulnerable to significant out-of-pocket costs following an accident, these optional coverages can provide real value. Here are a few optional coverages we offer in Minnesota:
If your bike collides with a stationary object or another vehicle, your liability-only policy won’t cover the repairs and other expenses. To help reduce the amount you have to pay out of pocket, consider adding collision coverage, which can help pay for damages that occur in an accident with another motorist.
Comprehensive insurance can help cover costs if your motorcycle is damaged by something other than an accident. For example, if your bike is stolen, damaged by hail or windblown objects, or vandalized, comprehensive coverage may help pay for your repairs.
This coverage may help pay for damage or loss if you’ve customized your bike beyond its factory standard equipment.
If your bike is damaged in a collision, this coverage can help pay for the costs of repairs using original manufacturer parts.
If your motorcycle is damaged in an accident, this coverage can help cover the costs of renting another bike while yours is in the shop. Particularly if you commute to and from work on your motorcycle, this coverage can provide real value.
If your bike is three years old or newer and is a total loss after an accident, this coverage can help pay for a new bike, including optional equipment.
If your equipment fails on the road—from an engine breakdown to an empty gas tank—roadside assistance provides toll-free, 24-hour towing and roadside services.
If you’re involved in an accident and the other, at-fault motorist doesn’t have enough insurance to cover the costs associated with your injuries, you could be left paying the difference out of pocket. This coverage can help cover medical costs for you and your passenger in such a situation.
Approximately one in 10 Minnesota drivers is uninsured. If you’re involved in an accident with one of these motorists, your expenses following the accident could be extensive. Uninsured motorist coverage can help pay for you and your passengers’ medical costs if you’re injured by an uninsured, at-fault motorist.
Learn the pros and cons of canceling motorcycle insurance.
Insurance quotes are quick and free. You’ll just need to:
Have your bike’s year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN) on hand.
Answer some additional questions about your bike (e.g. customizations, where it’s kept, whether you’ve taken a rider safety course, etc.).
Select the coverages you want.
We’re committed to helping you discover the right combination of protection and value. With that in mind, talk to your agent to determine whether you qualify for any motorcycle insurance discounts available in Minnesota.
Known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesota has a lot to offer when it comes to natural beauty. From northern forests and shoreline drives to towering views of the Mississippi River, you're sure to find a scenic spot for a cruise.
If you’re in the mood for a relaxing ride, look no further. With Lake Superior on one side and the majestic northwoods on the other, the North Shore Scenic Drive more than earns its designation as an All-American road.
Explore eight state parks, visit lighthouses, and enjoy the iconic pizza and pie restaurants along the way. This is a great option for a sightseeing day trip, but you can also make a multi-day ride out of it.
South of the Twin Cities along the Mississippi River, you’ll find a series of state parks and scenic overlooks highlighting the stunning bluffs of Minnesota’s driftless region. Check out Great River Bluffs State Park, historic Bluff County, and Apple Blossom Drive.
Avenue of Pines is a section of Minnesota State Scenic Byway 46 that takes you through the Chippewa National Forest and past stands of mature red pines and aspens, along with many lakes and marshes. There aren’t that many curves or hills, so you’re in for a laid-back ride where you can enjoy the scenery. Stop frequently and keep an eye out for bald eagles, ospreys, and even black bears.
Before jumping on your bike and heading out on the road to explore Minnesota, make sure you have your insurance policy sorted out. Start by requesting a free Minnesota motorcycle insurance quote at 866-324-7952 today. Or simply enter your information below.