With so many providers out there the motorcycle insurance world can be a confusing one, even with MCN's motorbike insurance comparison service to help you to zero in on the best deal for you.

To help you keep track of all the different policies out there here is a list of questions to ask as you shop around.

• Compare motorcycle insurance with MCN Compare
   

1, Answer all questions truthfully. If you don't, your insurance become invalid in the event of a claim. Any intermediary (broker, company representative etc) should warn you of the consequences while you are getting a quote.
 
2, Find out the identity of the insurer from the broker. That way you are better able to compare prices, and if you have a complaint you can contact the Chief Executives of both the broker and the insurer.
 
3, Check if there are any restrictions in cover. The most important one is the level of excess, which is the amount you will have to contribute in the event of a claim.

This is usually about £250 and if it is above this the broker is under a moral duty to tell you what it is.

The cheaper the premium, the higher the excess. Some excesses depend on whether the bike is garaged or not, ask what the conditions are if your bike's nicked from a mate's house for example.

Normally if you're not at home when your bike's nicked they'll pay out but there may be an increase in the excess.
 
4, Check if there are restrictions in the number of named riders or bikes covered.
 
5, Is legal cover offered? If so, how much are you being charged for it, and can you take it out later on in the event of a claim. It's a "nice little earner" for brokers.
 
6, Find out what administration charges over and above the premium the intermediary is levelling. There can be significant differences between companies in the level of these charges.
 
7, How much is charged if you alter your policy in any way mid-term?
Motorcyclists are far more likely to do this than car drivers and there can be significant hidden charges if you buy a new bike in the summer.
 
8, If you're switching to a new company, find out what charges are levelled for new business. Also how much is charged at renewal?
 
9, What are the cancellation charges - they can be excessive.
 
10, If you have to make a total loss claim, for theft or a write-off, ask if your insurance will be cancelled.
 
11, When you get the quotation back, check the small print very carefully ie agreed value, claims, no claims bonus, and convictions.

Some very small print includes: "if you change type of tyres from standard fitment that could invalidate your insurance."
 
12, What's the amount and extent of any Personal Accident cover? Is there a
24 hours claims help-line?

What about free collection and delivery from repairer following a claim?

Is a courtesy vehicle provided when yours is being repaired? Are you covered for Europe? If so, for how many days a year?

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