Our recent bit of miserable weather in Northern California reminded me that I received a few letters and calls asking about the uells and their insurability. Nothing like having a few days of Lightning and Thunderbolts to remind this old man that changes are on the horizon.

There are roughly seven or eight independent motorcycle insurance companies operating in California. By independent, I mean companies other than the "Big Boys" like Allstate, State Farm, Farmers, etc. These independents companies are carriers which have made a point (or are trying to make a point) of learning the motorcycle community's needs, and offering a product to satisfy that need. Of course, over the years, we have seen some leave and have also seen the entry of new ones. Anytime a new machine comes into the marketplace, there will be a year of trial and error. The Buell gets to be the one under the insurance microscope this year.

So far this year, only half of the companies are willing to insure the Buells. When I say willing, that means the company is offering what can be viewed as an "acceptable" rate. A rate similar to other cycles in the same class, by the same manufacturer, etc. Buells are driven by Harley powerplants, they should enjoy the same rates, discounts, acceptability, and so on as other Harleys. The companies that realize that are the ones I view as acceptable. On the other hand, if a company is offering some four digit number with a multitude of surcharges and hoops to jump through, I personally view that in reality, as not offering insurance. So, under that premise, there are really only a few independent insurance companies standing to insure them at this time. But that is OK. Those willing to, do in fact understand the nature of the vehicle.

The end user of the Buell is a subject of a lot of debate. While it can be said to be of sport design, the people I have met on them do not fall into the usual sport cycle "crotch-rocket" (I simply love that term) mode. Instead they seem to be people who truly love riding and want something that will level out a twisty back road. The companies who have failed to see this, have reacted in their initial approach to the Buell by surcharging the basic insurance rate with "Sportcycle" or "High Performance" surcharges. Some companies are simply sticking the cycle on the "Not Acceptable" chart.

Usually a year goes by while all the companies sit on the sidelines and will watch what happens to the companies who insure the Buells. Loss ratios, claims costs, accessibility of parts, etc will become lunchtime talks for those. By that time, everyone know who was right and who was wrong. I feel that many companies will find out that the Buell clients were among the best insureds they could have hoped for.

However, for those of you who have purchased one of these fine machines, don't worry, insurance is available. And it is reasonable. By this time next year, probably more companies will be available for insurance. If you are finding the quest for insurance on this to be difficult, drop me a line. Shoot, I might even pay for your insurance in exchange for a day or two use of your cycle. And remember, the smart shopper is the educated shopper. I wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas, a Happy and Prosperous New Year. See ya all at the new San Mateo Cycle Expo in January!!