Here is what I found out:

Trying to find an insurance company that will insure an off road motorcycle where the operator is under sixteen years of age and therefore unlicensed, is nearly impossible these days. In addition, even trying to find an agent that knows what the difference between a Suzuki DR 200SE and a DR-Z 250 is equally challenging.

"The first, and most important thing to keep in mind when purchasing insurance of any kind" says Sean,"is there is only one way to buy insurance; the correct way. The insurer or broker must be informed of all details about the risk they are taking on. If they do not have complete information, you will most likely find yourself without coverage in the event of a claim. If there is an operator who is under 16 years of age and unlicensed, the policy must have a special endorsement added. It's called and OPCF #32."

What this means, in this situation, is that we must advise of the use of the vehicle and all operators. If you think you pulled a fast one on your insurance company because they issued a policy for your kid's XR 100 because they are unaware of the underage operator and have only taken into consideration the parent as the owner of the motorcycle, you are mistaken. You may be successful in having your child ride around the Ganaraska with a liability slip, but in the event of a lawsuit through the operation of this motorcycle by a minor, there may be no actual coverage in place.

So this brings us to the challenge of obtaining the correct coverage. Most brokers or agents will hang up as soon as they hear the term off road bike, or worse yet, a child's dirt bike. May people have difficulty purchasing insurance for an off road plated motorcycle if they don't have a motorcycle license.

We all know you are not required to have a class M license to ride a recreational motorcycle off road so what's the problem? Sean advises "Because this type of insurance falls within the category of automobile insurance and it is mandated by law, the government guarantees access to it. That being said, all insurers are not required to provide this form of recreational vehicle insurance. The fact is; the consumer demand for this product is very small and thus very little competition within the marketplace. It comes down to finding a broker that truly understands the requirement and has the insurance companies to offer coverage."

You have gone so far as to equip you and your kids with safe, quiet, reliable motorcycles, helmets and all the safety gear. Don't stop short by riding on public lands incorrectly and illegally without having the correct insurance. Wiesner Insurance has the ability to insure off road motorcycles properly. Sean and his staff understand what we as recreational off-road riders need.

Wiesner Insurance is an OFTR Gold Corporate Member

WIESNER INSURANCE
57 MILL STREET NORTH, SUITE 103
BRAMPTON, ONTARIO, L6X 1S9

Tel: (905) 451 4205 or (416) 498 6101
Toll-Free:1 (800) 408 2877
Fax: (905) 451 9604
Sean Wiesner (Vice-President) Ext. 27

For a list of Pay-to-Play facilities where bike insurance is not required, click here