You are shopping for insurance for your new RZR Pro R. You see ads for Progressive (Flo) and Markel (the specialist). Who is actually better? I ran the quotes and dug into the policy jackets to find the real differences for 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Markel (The Specialist): Generally offers better coverage for accessories (CPE) and specialized off-road risks. They understand modifications better.
- Progressive (The Bundler): Often cheaper if you bundle with your truck/home. Their app is better, but they can be stricter on “Performance” modifications.
- Diminishing Deductibles: Both offer this (Safe Driver), but Markel’s often drops faster (25% per year vs. flat amounts).
- Claims Handling: Progressive uses general auto adjusters. Markel uses powersports specialists who know that a bent A-arm isn’t a total loss.
The Investigation: Head-to-Head Comparison
I quoted a 2025 Polaris General 1000, 35-year-old male, clean record.
1. Cost
- Progressive: $450/year (Standalone). $380/year (Bundled with Auto).
- Markel: $420/year (Standalone).
- Winner: Progressive if bundling; Markel if standalone.
2. Accessory Coverage (CPE)
- Progressive: Includes $3,000 custom parts. You can buy up to $30k.
- Markel: Includes $1,000 – $3,000 depending on tier. Known for being very lenient on paying for expensive aftermarket cages/lifts without hassle.
- Winner: Tie, but Markel feels safer for highly modded rigs.
3. Exclusions
- Progressive: Strict on “Racing” and sometimes “Water Ingestion.”
- Markel: Offers specific “Competition” endorsements for amateur racing (check specific state availability).
Comparison Table: Feature Fight
| Feature | Progressive | Markel |
| Bundling Discount | Excellent | Poor (Partnerships only) |
| Claims Adjusters | General Auto | Powersports Specific |
| Diminishing Deductible | Yes | Yes (Aggressive) |
| OEM Parts Guarantee | Optional | Standard in some tiers |
| Modifications | Scrutinized | Welcomed |
[IMAGE: Split screen graphic with Progressive logo on left, Markel on right, and a UTV in the middle]
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Quote Markel First: Get a baseline from the specialist.
- Quote Progressive Bundle: See if adding it to your auto policy drops the price significantly.
- Check the “Parts” Clause: If you insist on OEM parts (not Chinese knockoffs), check which carrier promises “OEM Parts” in their repair clause.
- Read the Reviews: Check forums like RZRForums.net for recent claims experiences. In 2026, claims speed is the differentiator.
FAQ
Are there others?
Yes. Geico (often underwritten by others), Safeco, and Foremost are big players. Foremost is very similar to Markel in expertise.