A bike gives freedom. It also carries financial risk most riders underestimate. Repair bills today are not small. A cracked alloy wheel can cost roughly Rs. 8,000. Engine damage from water ingress can go beyond Rs. 25,000. And third-party injury claims have no upper cap, which means one accident can create a long-term financial burden.
Yet many people still treat two-wheeler insurance like a checkbox. Buy the cheapest plan, renew late, ignore add-ons. That approach works, until the first claim.
Here, we break down IndusInd two-wheeler insurance in a way that helps you actually decide. Not just what it includes, but what matters, what to skip and where money is saved or lost.
Bike insurance in India has become more structured over the last few years. Regulations from IRDAI now ensure:
- Mandatory third-party cover
- Standardised personal accident benefits
- Flexibility to customise through add-ons
- Online purchase and renewal are widely enabled across insurers, including IndusInd, in line with digital insurance practices.
IndusInd’s offering follows this framework. It combines:
- Mandatory liability protection
- Own damage cover
- Optional financial protections through add-ons
What you end up with depends entirely on how you configure it.
Plan at a Glance
|
Insurer
|
IndusInd General Insurance Co. Ltd. (formerly Reliance General Insurance)
|
|
IRDAI Registration No.
|
103
|
|
Product UIN
|
IRDAN103RP0011V02100001
|
|
Policy Type
|
Comprehensive / Third-Party / Standalone Own Damage (SAOD)
|
|
Vehicles Covered
|
All two-wheelers including motorcycles, scooters, mopeds
|
|
Premium Starting From
|
Rs. 19/month (Rs. 228/year approx.)
|
|
Network Garages
|
11,000+ cashless garages pan-India
|
|
Personal Accident Cover
|
Up to Rs. 15 Lakh (mandatory for owner-driver)
|
|
No-Claim Bonus (NCB)
|
Up to 50% for consecutive claim-free years
|
|
Long-Term Policy
|
Available (up to 5 years for new two-wheelers)
|
|
Online Discount
|
Up to 80% discount on online purchase
|
|
Claim Intimation
|
1800 3009 (Toll-Free) | 022-4890 3009
|
Types of Two-Wheeler Insurance Plans
Comprehensive (Package) Policy
The most complete form of bike insurance — covers own-damage (OD) to your vehicle as well as third-party liability. This is the recommended choice for most two-wheeler owners.
- Own damage due to accidents, fire, theft, natural calamities
- Third-party bodily injury, death, and property damage liability
- Personal accident cover for the owner-driver
- Option to add a wide range of riders/add-ons
Third-Party (TP) Liability Policy
Mandatory by law under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. This is the minimum insurance required to legally ride a two-wheeler on Indian roads.
- Covers financial liability for injury/death caused to a third party
- Covers third-party property damage (up to the statutory limit)
- Does NOT cover own-damage to your vehicle
- Lowest premium option — mandatory for all riders
Standalone Own Damage (SAOD) Policy
Covers only the damages incurred to your own two-wheeler. Must be paired with a separate third-party policy (which is mandatory). Ideal for riders who already have active third-party cover.
- Covers accidental damage, fire, theft, natural disaster
- Does not cover third-party liability
- Flexible — combine with any IRDAI-approved TP insurer
What Does It Cover?
The policy is divided into three clear sections. Each one solves a different risk.
➔ Section I: Own Damage
This is the part that protects your actual bike. It covers damage caused by:
- Accidents or collisions
- Fire, explosion, self-ignition
- Natural disasters like floods, cyclones, earthquakes
- Riots, vandalism, malicious acts
- Theft or total loss
This section is where most claims happen. But here’s the catch: claims are reduced by depreciation unless you opt for protection.
Depreciation Table (Applied at Claim Stage)
|
Component |
Depreciation |
|
Plastic, rubber, nylon
|
50%
|
|
Fibreglass
|
30%
|
|
Tyres and tubes
|
50%
|
|
Glass
|
0%
|
|
Metal parts
|
Based on vehicle age
|
Even if your repair bill is Rs. 12,000, you may receive Rs. 7,000–Rs. 9,000 depending on parts. That gap is exactly what add-ons are meant to fix.
➔ Section II: Liability to Third Parties
This is the legal backbone of bike insurance. It protects you against:
- Injury or death of another person
- Damage to someone else’s property
Two important realities:
- Property damage has a defined cap as per regulatory limits (commonly up to Rs. 7.5 lakh in India, unless enhanced by add-on cover).
- Injury liability has no upper limit. Courts decide compensation.
This section is compulsory for every rider in India.
➔ Section III: Personal Accident Cover for Owner-Driver
This protects you, not the bike. As per IRDAI regulations, a personal accident cover of Rs. 15 lakh for owner-driver is mandatory unless already covered under another policy.
Compensation Structure
|
Injury Type
|
Compensation
|
|
Death
|
100%
|
|
Loss of two limbs / eyesight
|
100%
|
|
Loss of one limb / eyesight
|
50%
|
|
Permanent total disability
|
100%
|
These percentages are fixed under IRDAI norms and apply across insurers. Some policies also allow additional personal accident cover for pillion riders.
What Is Not Covered?
Now comes the part most people ignore until a claim gets rejected. Think of exclusions as strict boundaries.
- Normal wear and tear (brakes, clutch plates)
- Mechanical or electrical failure without accident
- Riding without valid licence
- Driving under alcohol or drugs
- Commercial use of a private bike
- Damage after policy expiry
- Negligence leading to further damage
Insured Declared Value (IDV)
IDV is the single most important number in your policy. It is:
- The current market value of your bike
- The maximum amount you receive in total loss or theft
It directly impacts both premium and claim payout.
Depreciation Based on Bike Age
|
Bike Age
|
Depreciation |
|
Up to 6 months
|
5%
|
|
6 months – 1 year
|
15%
|
|
1 – 2 years
|
20%
|
|
2 – 3 years
|
30%
|
|
3 – 4 years
|
40%
|
|
4 – 5 years
|
50%
|
After 5 years, IDV is determined based on mutual agreement between insurer and policyholder.
Practical insight: Reducing IDV to save Rs. 300–Rs. 500 can cost Rs. 8,000–Rs. 15,000 during a claim.
General Exceptions
These are broader exclusions that apply regardless of situation.
- War or nuclear risks
- Intentional damage
- Participation in racing
- Use outside policy conditions
- Illegal activities
These cannot be removed or customised.
Add-ons: Where Your Bike Insurance Actually Becomes Useful
The base policy covers big, obvious risks. Accidents, theft, disasters. That part is straightforward. What most riders don’t realise is this. Claims rarely fail because of missing base coverage. They fall short because of deductions, exclusions, or situations the base policy simply does not handle.
Add-ons exist to close those gaps. IndusInd’s add-ons are designed around three real problems. Claim reductions due to depreciation, out-of-pocket expenses during repairs and financial pressure when the bike is unusable. Once you see them through that lens, the choices become clearer.
- No Claim Bonus (NCB) Retention Cover
NCB builds quietly over time. After five claim-free years, you can reach a 50 percent discount on your premium. The moment you make a claim, that benefit usually disappears. This add-on protects that accumulated discount. Even if you raise a claim, your NCB stays intact at renewal, subject to policy conditions like claim size or number of claims.
This becomes valuable only after a few years. If your NCB is already above 35 percent, losing it can increase your next premium sharply. In that context, paying a little extra for protection makes financial sense.
|
After 1 consecutive claim-free year
|
20% NCB
|
|
After 2 consecutive claim-free years
|
25% NCB
|
|
After 3 consecutive claim-free years
|
35% NCB
|
|
After 4 consecutive claim-free years
|
45% NCB
|
|
After 5 or more consecutive claim-free years
|
50% NCB
|
- Nil Depreciation Cover (Zero Dep)
Every standard claim involves depreciation. Plastic, rubber, fibre parts lose value on paper and that portion is deducted from your claim. This add-on removes that deduction.
The difference is not minor. A repair bill of Rs. 12,000 can drop to a Rs. 7,000 payout under a normal policy. With zero depreciation, the payout can move much closer to the full amount, excluding deductibles. This is especially useful for newer bikes, where parts are expensive and depreciation cuts are steep. For older bikes, the benefit reduces because IDV itself is lower.
- Total Cover (Return to Invoice Style Protection)
IDV reflects depreciated value. That means even after one year, your claim payout in case of theft or total loss will be lower than what you originally paid. This type of add-on (often called Return to Invoice) increases the claim payout beyond IDV to include additional on-road costs like registration and tax, subject to policy terms. In effect, it brings the payout closer to the invoice value of the bike.
For someone who has just purchased a new vehicle, this can prevent a financial shortfall of 10 to 20 percent.
- EMI Protection for Two-Wheeler
This add-on is tied to how you bought the bike. If your vehicle is financed and ends up in the garage for an extended period, your EMI does not stop. You are paying for something you cannot use.
EMI protection addresses that gap. EMI protection add-ons, where available, may cover loan instalments if the vehicle is unusable due to insured damage, subject to waiting periods and limits defined in the policy. It is not a universal necessity. But for riders with tight monthly budgets or single-vehicle dependence, it adds a layer of financial stability.
- Daily Allowance Benefit
A bike out of action creates a daily inconvenience. Work, errands, everything shifts to paid transport. This add-on gives you a fixed daily payout to manage those costs. It activates based on policy conditions once the vehicle is under repair for a defined minimum duration. The amount is modest but practical. It offsets cab fares or rental expenses during the repair period.
- Daily Allowance Benefit Plus
This is an extended version of the same idea. The payout is higher and the duration is longer. It suits people who rely heavily on their bike every day and do not have a backup vehicle. The difference between the basic and plus version is not about concept, but scale.
- Helmet Cover
Helmets are often treated as separate from the vehicle, but accidents rarely damage one without affecting the other. This add-on covers the cost of replacing a damaged helmet. Some variants also include loss due to theft. Given that a good helmet can cost several thousand rupees, this is a small but sensible addition.
- Emergency Hotel Accommodation
Breakdowns are inconvenient in the city. On highways, they can become expensive. This add-on covers hotel stay if your bike breaks down far from your home location. The condition usually involves a minimum distance threshold.
It is not relevant for everyday commuting. But for riders who travel long distances, it adds a layer of safety and comfort.
- Voluntary Deductible
This works in the opposite direction of most add-ons. Instead of increasing coverage, you agree to bear a fixed portion of every claim. In return, your premium reduces. The logic is simple. If you rarely claim, you save money every year. When a claim happens, you absorb a small part of the cost.
This is suitable for experienced riders with low claim probability. For frequent riders in dense traffic, the trade-off may not work.
- Additional Limit of Third-Party Property Damage (TPPD)
Standard policies cap property damage liability at a defined level. In urban settings, even a minor accident involving a car can exceed that amount. Repairing modern vehicles is expensive. This add-on increases that limit, giving you a wider safety margin against third-party claims.
It becomes more relevant in metro cities where both traffic density and repair costs are higher.
- Consumable Expenses Cover
Standard policies exclude consumables. These include engine oil, lubricants, nuts, bolts and similar items. Individually, they seem minor. Together, they can add up to a noticeable portion of the repair bill. This add-on ensures those costs are included in the claim settlement. For frequent riders or those using service-heavy bikes, this becomes useful over time.
- No Claim Discount One Step Down Cover
Normally, one claim resets your NCB completely. This add-on softens that impact. Instead of dropping from, say, 50 percent to zero, your discount reduces step by step. It does not eliminate the penalty, but it makes it less severe. For riders with long claim-free histories, this helps preserve part of the benefit they have built over time.
- Replacement Lock Insurance
Keys get misplaced more often than people expect. In some cases, locks need replacement for safety reasons. This add-on covers the cost of replacing locks and keys. It is a small feature, but useful in cities where vehicle security is a concern.
- Engine Protector Cover
This is one of the most important add-ons in Indian conditions. Standard policies do not cover engine damage caused by water entering the engine or oil leakage due to riding conditions. This add-on specifically covers those situations.
The difference becomes clear during monsoon months. Riding through waterlogged roads can cause serious engine damage. Without this add-on, such claims may not be covered under standard policy terms. For riders in flood-prone areas or cities with poor drainage, it becomes essential.
Note: Add-on availability may vary by insurer, plan variant and location. The following are commonly offered features under comprehensive two-wheeler insurance, including those referenced by IndusInd.
How to Choose Add-ons Without Overpaying?
Not every add-on deserves a place in your policy. The decision should come down to two questions. How often can this situation occur and how expensive would it be if it does.
A new bike owner will benefit most from zero depreciation and engine protection. A financed bike adds EMI protection to that list. A daily commuter may find consumables and allowance benefits useful. For older bikes, the approach should be conservative. The cost of add-ons should not exceed the value they protect.
How to Choose Before You Buy Bike Insurance?
Here is a decision table that actually works.
|
Situation
|
Ideal Plan
|
|
New bike
|
Comprehensive + Zero Dep + Engine Cover
|
|
Loan-funded bike
|
Add EMI Protection
|
|
Daily rider
|
Add Consumables + RSA
|
|
Occasional rider
|
Basic comprehensive
|
|
Old bike (7+ years)
|
Third-party or low IDV
|
Note: Always remember that actual choice depends on usage, city risk and budget.
Not sure what fits your situation?
Comparing add-ons, IDV and pricing across insurers is where most confusion happens.
If you want a clearer recommendation before you purchase bike insurance, you can explore options here at SMC Insurance.
How to Raise a Two-Wheeler Insurance Claim
Cashless Claim (at Network Garage)
- Step 1: Call IndusInd General's toll-free number 1800 3009 to register the claim
- Step 2: Receive details of the nearest cashless network garage
- Step 3: Take your two-wheeler to the authorised garage
- Step 4: A surveyor is assigned to assess the damage on-site
- Step 5: Post-approval, the garage carries out repairs
- Step 6: IndusInd General settles the bill directly with the garage — you pay only non-covered items
Reimbursement Claim (Non-Network Garage)
- Step 1: Intimate IndusInd General immediately after the incident
- Step 2: Get the bike repaired at any garage of your choice
- Step 3: Collect original repair bills, receipts, and relevant documents
- Step 4: Submit claim form along with FIR (if theft), driving licence, RC, and bills
- Step 5: Post-verification by IndusInd General's surveyor, the eligible amount is reimbursed
Documents Required for Claim
- Duly filled and signed claim form
- Copy of driving licence (valid)
- Copy of vehicle registration certificate (RC)
- Copy of the insurance policy
- FIR from the police (for theft, third-party accidents, or major accidents)
- Original repair bills and receipts (for reimbursement claims)
Claim Contact
Toll-Free: 1800 3009
Paid Helpline: 022-4890 3009
WhatsApp: 74004 22200
Website: www.indusindinsurance.com
How to Renew IndusInd Two-Wheeler Insurance
- Step 1: Visit www.indusindinsurance.com and go to 'Renewal' > 'Renew IndusInd Two Wheeler Insurance'
- Step 2: Enter your vehicle's registration number and click 'View Prices'
- Step 3: Enter your existing policy number, expiry date, and previous claim details
- Step 4: Select your plan type and add-ons; enter NCB details if applicable
- Step 5: Pay the renewal premium online — receive policy documents instantly
Alternatively, renew through SMC Insurance for expert plan comparison and renewal assistance.
How to Buy Two-Wheeler Insurance on SMC Insurance (Step-by-Step)?
- Go to the SMC Insurance website.
- On the homepage, click the insurance category you want - “Bike Insurance”.
- You can then enter your registered vehicle number and click on “View Quotes". You also have the option to check quotes by giving the bike number.
- In case of vehicle insurance, the upcoming prompts will ask you for your vehicle details like brand, model, fuel type, variant and respective RTO.
- Once given, you can check the policy start and end date, confirm NCB details and view quotes from various insurers.
- On submission, SMC will display a list of available plans or quotes from partner insurers, including IndusInd. You can view plan details like coverage, benefits, inclusions/exclusions, add-ons (if available), insured declared value (for vehicles), etc.
- Compare the available options and consider things like third-party vs comprehensive, add-ons (e.g. zero-depreciation, roadside assistance) as per your needs.
- Once you select the plan you want, click the button labeled “Buy Now”
- Fill out your personal details as required (owner name, address, contact, driving licence/RTO info or health info depending on policy). Ensure all details are accurate.
- Make the payment via the online gateway supported by the website. After payment confirmation you will receive your policy document or certificate electronically (through email or website account).
- Once everything is processed, your insurance policy becomes active. Keep a digital or printed copy of your policy/certificate for future reference.
Throughout the buying process, you have the option to contact the SMC Team for any kind of support you need.
Why Renew / Buy Through SMC Insurance?
- IRDAI-registered composite broker — compare multiple insurers for best price
- Unbiased advice on plan type and add-on selection
- Dedicated claim support — from intimation to settlement
- Digital policy issuance with zero paperwork
- Renewal reminders and policy management support
- Experts in motor insurance for all two-wheeler types and segments
Disclaimer:The information provided on this platform is intended for general awareness and educational purposes. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, some details may change with policy updates, regulatory revisions, or insurer-specific modifications. Readers should verify current terms and conditions directly with relevant insurers or through professional consultation before making any decision.
All views and analyses presented are based on publicly available data, internal research, and other sources considered reliable at the time of writing. These do not constitute professional advice, recommendations, or guarantees of any product’s performance. Readers are encouraged to assess the information independently and seek qualified guidance suited to their individual requirements. Customers are advised to review official sales brochures, policy documents, and disclosures before proceeding with any purchase or commitment.
FAQs
Yes, under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, it is mandatory for all two-wheelers operating on public roads to have at least a valid third-party liability insurance policy. Riding without valid insurance is a legal offence and attracts a penalty.
Third-party insurance covers only the financial liability you owe to a third party (injury, death, or property damage). Comprehensive insurance adds own-damage cover for your bike — protecting it against accidents, theft, fire, and natural calamities. Comprehensive is strongly recommended for most two-wheeler owners.
IDV (Insured Declared Value) is the current market value of your bike — the maximum amount payable in case of total loss or theft. A higher IDV means better claim payout but a slightly higher premium. You can customise the IDV within the IRDAI-permitted range when buying online.
Standard policies deduct depreciation on replaced parts at the time of claim. Zero depreciation removes this deduction, ensuring you receive the full replacement cost. It is highly recommended for new bikes (under 3–5 years old) where parts are expensive.
Yes, NCB belongs to the policyholder, not the vehicle or the insurer. When you renew with a new insurer (or SMC), your accumulated NCB is transferred on submission of an NCB retention letter from your previous insurer.
IndusInd General Insurance has a network of over 11,000 cashless garages across India. You can locate the nearest cashless garage by calling the helpline 1800 3009 or through the IndusInd Insurance app.
For newly purchased two-wheelers, IRDAI mandates a 5-year third-party policy. IndusInd General offers a bundled long-term policy that protects you from annual TP premium hikes and reduces the risk of policy lapse. It also enables better NCB accumulation over time.
SAOD covers only the damage to your own vehicle. It must be purchased alongside a mandatory third-party policy (which can be from any IRDAI-approved insurer). This option gives you the flexibility to choose the best OD and TP providers independently.
The standard personal accident cover under comprehensive policies covers the owner-driver only. A pillion rider can be covered by opting for the Pillion Rider PA add-on at an additional premium.
Riding with an expired policy is illegal in India. Additionally, a lapse in coverage means you lose your accumulated NCB — resulting in a significantly higher premium at renewal. An inspection of the vehicle may also be required before the policy can be renewed. It's advisable to renew at least 30 days before expiry.