Motorbike Insurance: The Most Frequently Asked Questions

Read the most frequently asked questions about motorbike insurance policies; see the answers, compare quotes and find the best deal to suit you.

What sort of things will have an effect on the cost of my premiums?

When working out the cost of premiums, motorbike insurance companies will take into account different factors to make the calculation:

• Usage
• History of riding
• Your location
• Age of rider
• Amount of voluntary excess
• Annual mileage
• Place where you keep your motorbike.
• Model of motorbike
• Level of security

You can find out more in our beginners’ guide to bike insurance.

What are the available options for motorbike insurance policies?

As with most vehicle insurance, there are three main types of cover: comprehensive, third party, fire and theft and third party only. The most favourable rates are not always for third party policies and the cover they provide can be quite limited. It’s a good idea to shop around and find the best deal to suit your needs. Telematics policies for motorbikes have still not had significant appeal.

What does CBT stand for?

CBT is the abbreviation for Compulsory Basic Training; all riders of motorbike and mopeds must have this before setting out on the road. Occasionally, it is not compulsive if you have possessed a valid driving or moped licence for a long time; however, it is best for all riders to have a CBT. For more information, visit Gov.UK website.^†

Will my cover extend to other motorbikes?

You may find your comprehensive cover will be permitted for another bike with the owner’s permission; another option is to buy an add-on for your policy. It is recommended you read through your Terms and Conditions.

Should I take out cover for a 12 month period?

Ideally, yes. However, if your motorcycle has been declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) and this has been registered with the DVLA, you won’t have to. Short-term motorbike insurance is worth looking at for various options.

Is it possible to transfer my car no claims bonus to my motorbike?

There are some insurance providers who may permit you to use your NCB from your car on your motorbike; however, this is unusual and the reverse of transferring motorbike NCB to car is not permitted.

Can I use my NCB for a second motorbike or moped?

Your NCB only applies to a single motorbike; you can transfer it to an alternative bike, for example when trading in your bike and buying a new one, but it will not be valid on an additional motorcycle or another vehicle.

There are some providers who will offer discounts or permit you to replicate your no claims bonus on a second motorbike; it is best to check on various incentives with individual insurers.

Will the policy cover me for taking a passenger?

Policies differ so it is best to ask your insurer. However, although it will be cheaper not to insure for passengers, it is illegal to take a passenger if you have no insurance for pillion passengers.

Is it ok to use my motorcycle for business use?

When you take out motorbike insurance, you will need to declare how you intend to use your bike. The main options for usage are social, domestic and pleasure; you may need an add-on or different policy for commuting, business use, courier and delivery. Find out more here: insuring a motorbike for work use.

Will my policy cover me for the gear I use for riding my bike?

It’s best not to make the assumption that your policy covers your riding gear. Different companies offer different levels of protection so check out the details with individual insurers. Taking out helmet and leather insurance may be your best option.

Will my policy cover me for riding overseas?

Read our guide to European cover as policies vary. You may only be covered for certain countries; you need to be aware of the number of days for which you have continuous cover and whether the protection is identical to your UK cover.

Is it ok for a 16-year-old to ride a scooter or a moped?

Sixteen year olds who want to ride a moped or a scooter on the road must be in possession of a valid provisional licence; it is mandatory to have completed a CBT course, and L-plates must be displayed (known as D plates in Wales). You are forbidden from carrying a passenger or riding on a motorway.

If I am under 16 can I still get a quote?

Unfortunately we cannot issue a scooter insurance quote to anyone under the age of 16. The insurance companies are not in agreement for us to provide quotes for those under 16 years of age.

What is the difference between a scooter and a moped?

A scooter is defined by The Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) as having an engine that is a working part of the rear suspension, or a chassis that’s a step-through type. This criteria is independent of engine capacity or wheel size.

A motorised two-wheel vehicle with an engine capacity of less than 50cc and a top speed of approximately 31mph is the definition of a moped.

Will I be able to insure an imported motorbike?

Imported motorbikes are subject to the same criteria as other vehicles and need to have valid insurance cover before taking out onto the road. Parallel imports are usually simple to get insured, whereas grey imports may be more difficult. If you enter your details in our simple, user-friendly process for obtaining a quote, you can obtain a list of insurers who can offer a quote.

Can I insure a three-wheeler or quad bike?

These type of vehicles need to be considered separately from motorbikes. Find out more here: insuring a three-wheeler and quad-bike insurance.

Will a sidecar be covered by motorbike insurance?

If you require cover for a sidecar, it will come up as a separate question on our list. Sidecar insurance may be included on some policies as a standard feature or you may have to take extra cover for them as an option.

Are you aware?

• If you take part in an advanced training course, in addition to other benefits, you may be entitled to a cut in your premium; however, the savings you make are unlikely to cover the full cost of the course

Are there any other extra options I should be aware of?

It’s best to check out what factors your policy includes as standard before looking at add-ons. Some extra features that are worth considering are:

• Cover for personal accident
• Breakdown cover
• Loss of earnings
• Legal expenses
• Trailer cover, for towing

Is it possible to get a lower price deal for motorbike insurance?

Some ways which may help you with lowering your motorbike insurance are:

• Limit your annual mileage
• Increase your bike’s security
• Keep your bike parked in a safe place.
• Avoid buying a modified motorbike
• A less powerful engine
• Choosing the correct classic motorbike
• Participating in an advanced riding course

For answers to any further questions, see our motorbike insurance guides.

Written by

Kevin Patterson