Motorcycles
How Much Does Motorcycle Insurance Cost in Quebec?
By the Groupe Contant Team · Published August 27, 2026
Quick Answer
How much does motorcycle insurance cost in Quebec?
Generally between $800 and $1,800 per year for an experienced adult rider on a mid-size bike, depending on your insurer and profile. A new rider or a high-performance sport bike can push the premium well beyond that, sometimes to $3,000 or more. Keep in mind the SAAQ covers bodily injury in an accident, but not property damage to your motorcycle or theft — supplementary insurance remains strongly recommended for that.
Motorcycle insurance in Quebec is often misunderstood because it splits into two very distinct parts: mandatory public coverage for bodily injury, and optional private insurance for everything else.
This guide clarifies what each part covers, what supplementary insurance really costs, and what drives the price the most.
What the SAAQ Covers — and What It Doesn't
- Bodily injury — The SAAQ, through Quebec's public auto insurance plan, compensates bodily injury regardless of who's at fault in the accident. This portion is funded through registration fees, not a separate premium.
- Property damage and theft — Not covered by the SAAQ. If your motorcycle is damaged in an accident, stolen, or vandalized, only supplementary private insurance compensates you.
- Liability for a third party's property damage — Also not covered by the SAAQ; private liability insurance protects you against a claim if you damage someone else's vehicle or property.
What Drives the Price
- Displacement and power — The higher the displacement, the higher the premium; a 1,000 cc performance model costs noticeably more to insure than a beginner-friendly 300–400 cc bike.
- Rider age and experience — A new or younger rider generally pays a higher premium, regardless of displacement.
- Type of motorcycle — A sport bike generally costs more to insure than a standard or touring bike of comparable power.
- Seasonal vs. year-round use — Some insurers offer reduced rates for coverage limited to the riding season.
- Driving record — Past infractions and claims push the premium up, as with auto insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally between $800 and $1,800 per year for an experienced adult rider on a mid-size bike, depending on your insurer and profile. A new rider or a high-performance sport bike can push the premium well beyond that, sometimes to $3,000 or more. Keep in mind the SAAQ covers bodily injury in an accident, but not property damage to your motorcycle or theft — supplementary insurance remains strongly recommended for that.
Groupe Contant — Your Quebec Dealer
Groupe Contant can help you choose your first motorcycle and your financing options. Check out our Honda and KTM lineup suited to new riders.