When it comes to motorcycle insurance in Ontario, choosing the right bike can make a significant difference in your premium. Many riders, especially those new to the motorcycle world, may assume that bikes with similar engine sizes should have comparable insurance costs. However, insurance companies classify motorcycles differently based on their specifications, performance, and risk factors. This can lead to drastic differences in premiums—even for bikes with the same displacement.
To illustrate this point, let’s take the example of a 23-year-old male rider living in North York with a full M license. By keeping the rider’s profile the same, we can see how different motorcycles impact insurance costs:
- 2025 Yamaha R3 – $151 per month
- 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 400 (ZX4RR) – $500 per month
- 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 500 (EX500) – $167 per month
- 2025 Suzuki GSX-R600 – $572 per month
- 2025 Suzuki GSX-8R – $202 per month
- 2025 Aprilia RS 660 – $195 per month
Why Such a Big Difference in Premiums?
The key reason behind these drastic price differences is how insurance companies classify motorcycles. The Kawasaki Ninja 400 (ZX4RR) and Ninja 500 (EX500) are great examples of how two bikes with similar displacements can have vastly different insurance costs. Prior to 2025, Kawasaki offered the EX400 (also called Ninja 400), which was classified as a sportbike and had reasonable insurance premiums. However, for 2025, Kawasaki discontinued the EX400, and the new Ninja 400 (ZX4RR) falls under the super sport category—drastically increasing its insurance cost.
Super sport bikes like the ZX4RR are designed for high performance, with aggressive ergonomics and race-inspired components. Insurance companies view these bikes as high-risk due to their speed, power, and the likelihood of being involved in claims. In contrast, the Ninja 500 (EX) is classified as a standard sportbike, making it significantly cheaper to insure at $167 per month.
Sport vs. Super Sport: The Critical Difference
At first glance, a super sport bike and a regular sportbike may look quite similar, especially to those new to riding. However, insurance companies consider multiple factors when determining classification, including:
- Horsepower and top speed
- Power-to-weight ratio
- Intended usage (street vs. track-inspired design)
- Ergonomics and riding position
For example, the Suzuki GSX-R600—a well-known super sport bike—costs $572 per month to insure, while the GSX-8R, a more relaxed sport touring motorcycle, costs just $202. The Aprilia RS 660, a middleweight sportbike with a slightly less aggressive setup, sits at $195 per month—again reinforcing that classification matters more than just engine displacement.
Understanding Insurance Before You Buy
If you’re shopping for a new motorcycle, it’s crucial to research not just the specs of the bike but also how it is classified by insurance providers. What might seem like a minor difference in model names can have a $300–$400 impact on your monthly premium.
When comparing motorcycles, ask yourself:
- What type of riding will I be doing? If you’re not hitting the track, a high-performance super sport bike might not be necessary.
- How much power do I actually need? Many riders find that a well-balanced sport or touring bike meets their needs without excessive insurance costs. Some of the Honda or Yamaha models are perfect for this category.
- Can I afford the insurance long-term? The bike’s sticker price is only part of the cost—monthly premiums add up over time.
The Bottom Line
Motorcycle insurance isn’t just about engine size; it’s about how the bike is classified. Choosing a motorcycle wisely can save you hundreds per month, and over the years, potentially thousands of dollars. Before making a purchase, always check with insurance providers to understand where a bike falls in terms of classification and risk.
Being informed about these differences ensures you not only get the bike that suits your riding style but also one that doesn’t break the bank in insurance premiums.
