No-claims bonus motorcycle table: reduce costs through smart use of SF classes
17.06.25
5
Minutes
Katrin Straub
Managing Director at nextsure
The no-claims discount class (SF class) for your motorbike has a major impact on your insurance costs. A higher SF class means lower premiums, but an accident can quickly lead to an expensive downgrade. Understand the system and save real money.
The topic in brief and concise terms
Your motorcycle's SF class (usually SF 0 to SF 20) largely determines your insurance premium; higher classes mean lower costs.
An accident leads to a downgrade in the no-claims discount class, which can be avoided with no-claims protection or by paying for smaller claims yourself.
No-claims bonus classes can often be transferred (e.g. from parents or another vehicle) or optimised through special classifications (e.g. second car).
No-claims classes for motorcycles: understanding the basics for lower premiums
The no-claims bonus class (NCB class) is an insurer rating system that rewards accident-free riding. For motorcycles, NCB classes usually range from NCB class 0 to NCB class 20. Each year without a reported claim leads to a better classification and thus a higher no-claims discount. This discount can significantly reduce your insurance premium for third-party liability and comprehensive insurance; partial comprehensive insurance is unaffected by this. Many insurers already offer a noticeable discount after just one accident-free year. However, the exact percentages vary between providers, as a look at the respective NCB class table shows. Understanding these basics is the first step towards more affordable motorcycle insurance.
The motorcycle SF class table in detail: From SF 0 to SF 20
A typical no-claims bonus table for motorcycles grades discounts according to the number of claim-free years. New riders often start in no-claims class 0 or no-claims class 1/2. No-claims class 0 can, for example, mean a contribution rate of ninety per cent for third-party liability cover, while no-claims class 1/2 may already be reduced to sixty-five per cent. With each additional claim-free year, you move up one level. After, for example, five claim-free years, you could end up in no-claims class 5 with only a thirty-three per cent contribution rate for third-party liability cover. You reach the highest level, often no-claims class 20, after twenty or more claim-free years and may then pay only twenty per cent of the base premium. There are also special classes such as the malus class (M), to which you may be downgraded after a claim from a low no-claims class. The exact contribution rates can be found in your insurer’s terms, as these are not standardised. A closer look at the meaning of the contribution rate is advisable here.
Example SF class table for motorcycles (third-party liability)
The following table is intended as a guide; the actual values may vary depending on the insurer:
SF 20 (20+ years claim-free): approx. 20 per cent contribution rate
SF 10 (10 years claim-free): approx. 25 per cent contribution rate
SF 5 (5 years claim-free): approx. 33 per cent contribution rate
SF 2 (2 years claim-free): approx. 41 per cent contribution rate
SF 1/2 (licence >3 years, first-time insurance): approx. 65 per cent contribution rate
SF 0 (new rider): approx. 90 per cent contribution rate
Class M (after a claim from SF 0/SF 1/2): approx. 130 per cent contribution rate
This grading illustrates the significant potential for savings through claim-free riding and the importance of avoiding a downgrade.
Downgrading after a claim: How to avoid higher premiums
An at-fault accident usually leads to a downgrade of your no-claims class in the following insurance year. The number of classes you are downgraded by depends on the insurer and your current no-claims class and is set out in the downgrade tables of the relevant policy. Even a single claim can set you back several no-claims classes. For example, a driver in no-claims class ten could fall back to no-claims class one after a claim. To prevent this, some insurers offer discount protection. This paid add-on prevents a downgrade after the first claim per year. Alternatively, for minor damage it may make sense to cover the costs yourself (claim buyback) in order to retain the better no-claims class. Always check which option is more cost-effective in the long run before reporting a claim. The cost of motorcycle insurance can therefore be actively influenced.
Make smart use of no-claims classes: transfer and special classifications
There are various ways to benefit from a favourable SF class, even without having driven accident-free for years yourself. One option is the transfer of the SF class. Under certain conditions, you can take over the SF class from another person (e.g. parents, partner) or another vehicle. Please note that you can usually only take over as many claim-free years as you have held your driving licence yourself. Another option is special classification for second vehicles. Many insurers classify a motorcycle as a second vehicle more favourably, often in SF class 1/2 or even better if the first vehicle already has a high SF class. There are sometimes also options for new drivers to start on more favourable terms through their parents' insurance. Our expert tip: ask your insurer specifically about options for transferring no-claims bonuses.
Ways to optimise your SF class:
Check the following options for a better classification:
Transfer of the SF class from family members.
Using the second-car rule for a better initial classification.
Recognition of claim-free periods from a scooter or light motorcycle insurance policy.
Special arrangements for new drivers who also use their parents' vehicle.
Transfer of the SF class from a deregistered car to the motorcycle.
Check whether a break in insurance cover of under seven or ten years (depending on the provider) allows the old SF class to be reactivated.
These points can help you significantly reduce your premium costs.
Expert knowledge: pitfalls and special rules for motorcycle no-claims bonus classes
The system of SF classes for motorcycles is not as standardised as it is for cars. The number of SF classes and the associated discounts can vary from insurer to insurer. A common pitfall is the loss of the SF class after a longer break in cover. Often, the discount expires after seven to ten years without insurance cover. When changing insurers, the number of claim-free years is usually carried over, but not the exact discount rate of the previous insurer. Also pay attention to regulations for light motorcycles; some insurers have their own, often shorter SF scales for these. Our expert tip: Keep old insurance documents carefully so that you can prove your claim-free years even after a break. This is particularly relevant if you want to optimise the SF classes of your insurer.
Optimise your motorcycle insurance with nextsure
The world of no-claims bonus classes and motorcycle insurance can be complex. However, with the right knowledge and a suitable strategy, significant costs can be saved. Understanding your motorcycle no-claims bonus class table and the associated regulations is crucial. As your digital insurance portal, nextsure helps you find the optimal cover for your motorcycle. We help you understand the finer points of SF classes and determine the best offer for your individual situation. Make use of our expertise for tailored, cost-effective cover. A good type class rating also plays a role. Request your individual risk analysis now.
More useful links
Wikipedia offers a comprehensive overview of the no-claims bonus in German motor insurance.
The insurers provide information in a news article about the no-claims bonus.
The German Insurance Association (GDV) provides the General Terms and Conditions for motor insurance (AKB 2015) as a PDF.
The Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) provides statistics on monthly new vehicle registrations.
The consumer advice centre explains how to save money on motor insurance.
Gesetze im Internet provides the Compulsory Insurance Act (PflVG) online.
The Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) provides statistics on road traffic accidents in Germany.
The German Motorcyclists' Association (BVDM) provides information on motorcycle insurance.
The Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) provides statistics on vehicle inspections.
FAQ
Which no-claims bonus class do I get as a new rider for my motorcycle?
New riders usually start in SF class 0. If you have held your driving licence for more than three years, but are insuring a motorcycle for the first time, classification in SF class ½ is often possible, which already means a discount.
How does a break in insurance affect my motorcycle no-claims bonus class?
A longer break in insurance cover can cause your no-claims bonus class to lapse. Many insurers still recognise a no-claims bonus class after a break of up to seven years; some even up to ten years. It is advisable to clarify this with the insurer.
What is the difference between the no-claims bonus class and the premium rate for a motorcycle?
The SF class represents your claim-free years. Each SF class is assigned a specific contribution rate (in per cent). The higher the SF class, the lower the percentage of the base premium you have to pay.
Is no-claims discount protection worthwhile for motorcycle insurance?
No-claims bonus protection can be worthwhile if you have a high no-claims discount class and do not want to lose it in the event of a claim. It prevents you from being downgraded after a (usually the first) claim per year, but it is subject to an additional charge.
Does the no-claims bonus class also affect my motorcycle's partially comprehensive insurance?
No, the no-claims bonus class only affects premiums for motor vehicle third-party liability and comprehensive insurance. Partial comprehensive insurance does not have no-claims bonus classes, as it covers damage that is usually not the driver's fault (e.g. theft, storm damage).
Where can I find the exact motorcycle no-claims bonus table for my insurer?
You can find the exact table with the no-claims bonus classes and the corresponding contribution rates in the policy terms and conditions (AVB) of your motorcycle insurance contract. These may vary from provider to provider.
