Don't claim for every bump and scrape

Each time you make a claim on your bike insurance, it's likely you'll have to pay an excess and your premiums will go up. Work out whether it'd be cheaper to get minor dings fixed out of your own pocket instead and preserve that no claims bonus.

Choose a less powerful bike

Beefy bikes may look impressive, but they're more likely to be involved in accidents and consequently cost more to insure. By sticking with a smaller engine or a lower-spec bike, you'll be able to negotiate a cheaper deal on your cover.

Invest in security

All bikers should take security seriously, whether that means buying a better immobiliser, chain or ground anchor, or just keeping it locked up in a garage at night. Whenever you invest in security facilities for your ride, make sure you let your insurer know - many offer discounts for doing this.

Ride safer

If you're safe on the roads, why not prove it by taking an advanced riding course? Organisations like the Institute of Advanced Motorists offer certificates for those who can demonstrate they can handle their bikes, which you can show to your insurer to qualify for lower premiums.

Ride only when you need to

Part of the way your premium is calculated involves looking at your annual mileage, so using two feet rather than two wheels for shorter journeys will not only save on petrol, it'll mean you pay less for insurance.

Pay for your insurance in one go

It's quite a bit cheaper to pay for cover annually than it is to pay monthly, so if you can afford to put down a lump sum every year, it'll add up to a substantial saving.

Don't just say yes to your renewal quote

When the time comes to renew your insurance policy, see if you can talk your provider into offering a cheaper quote than the one they initially come up with. Most companies will be willing to make you a deal if it means hanging on to a customer.