Specialist motorcycle insurance company Carole Nash which is opening an office in Dublin has said it will substantially widen the cover it provides to Irish bikers.

The company said yesterday that it would cover all bikes over 75cc and will include free breakdown recovery and legal protection with every policy.

It will also offer premium discounts to bikers who have owned their bikes for at least one year. It said it will also cover all sport bikes and third party insurance for all machines under 250cc, but over 75cc.

Carole Nash Insurance Consultants is a large player in the bike insurance market in Britain.