Motorbike insurance is a legal requirement in the UK, but the cost of motorbike insurance can vary widely from rider to rider. If you’re a new motorcyclist, returning rider, or simply reviewing your policy, you may be asking: how much is motorbike insurance in the UK, and what affects the price?
This guide explains average motorbike insurance costs in the UK, the key pricing factors, different cover types, and practical ways to reduce your premium—so you can budget accurately and make informed decisions.
Average Cost of Motorbike Insurance in the UK
There is no single fixed price for motorbike insurance in the UK. However, most riders fall within a broad range depending on experience, bike type, and cover level.
Typical annual cost ranges
- New or young riders: Higher premiums
- Experienced riders with clean records: Lower premiums
- High-performance bikes: Higher premiums
- Smaller or commuter bikes: Lower premiums
Many UK riders pay hundreds of pounds per year, while some high-risk profiles can pay significantly more.
Why Motorbike Insurance Prices Vary So Much
Motorbike insurance is risk-based. Insurers assess how likely a rider is to make a claim and price policies accordingly.
Key factors include
- Rider age and experience
- Type and engine size of the bike
- Location and storage
- Type of cover chosen
- Riding history and claims record
Even small differences in these factors can cause noticeable price changes.
Types of Motorbike Insurance in the UK
The type of cover you choose has a major impact on cost.
Third Party Only (TPO)
This is the minimum legal requirement in the UK.
What it covers
- Injury or damage you cause to others
- Damage to other vehicles or property
What it does not cover
- Damage to your own bike
- Theft or fire
Cost: Usually the cheapest option, but not always the best value.
Third Party, Fire and Theft (TPFT)
This is a popular mid-level option.
What it covers
- Everything in TPO
- Theft of your motorbike
- Damage caused by fire
Cost: Slightly higher than TPO, but often offers better protection.
Comprehensive Cover
This is the highest level of motorbike insurance.
What it covers
- Third-party liabilities
- Fire and theft
- Damage to your own bike, even if the accident is your fault
Cost: Higher premiums, but often the best overall protection.
Surprisingly, comprehensive cover can sometimes be cheaper than third-party options, depending on the rider profile.
How Rider Age Affects Motorbike Insurance Costs
Young riders
- Typically pay the highest premiums
- Higher perceived risk
- Limited riding history
Older riders
- Often benefit from lower premiums
- More experience and stable riding patterns
Age alone isn’t decisive, but it strongly influences pricing.
Experience and No Claims Bonus (NCB)
Your riding history plays a crucial role.
No Claims Bonus
- Earned for each claim-free year
- Can significantly reduce premiums
- Often capped after several years
A clean riding record is one of the most effective ways to lower costs over time.
How Your Motorbike Affects Insurance Costs
Not all bikes cost the same to insure.
Lower-cost bikes
- Smaller engine sizes (e.g. 125cc)
- Standard commuter bikes
- Lower repair costs
Higher-cost bikes
- High-performance or sports bikes
- Large engine sizes
- Custom or modified bikes
Choosing the right bike can dramatically affect insurance affordability.
Location and Storage: Why Where You Live Matters
Where you live and how you store your bike are major pricing factors.
Higher-risk locations
- Urban areas
- High theft rates
- On-street parking
Lower-risk setups
- Locked garages
- Approved security devices
- Low-crime areas
Secure storage can noticeably reduce premiums.
Security Devices and Discounts
Many insurers offer discounts for added security.
Common security measures
- Approved alarms
- Immobilisers
- Tracking devices
- Disc locks or chains
Insurers often recognise certified security devices with lower premiums.
Mileage and Usage
How you use your bike affects risk.
Lower mileage
- Typically lower premiums
- Less time on the road
Higher mileage
- Increased exposure to accidents
- Higher insurance cost
Accurately estimating mileage helps avoid overpaying.
Motorbike Insurance for New Riders in the UK
New riders often face the highest costs.
Why
- Limited experience
- Higher accident risk
- No No Claims Bonus
Tips for new riders
- Start with a smaller bike
- Consider additional training
- Choose secure storage
- Avoid unnecessary modifications
Premiums usually decrease with experience.
Motorbike Insurance for Older or Returning Riders
Returning riders may still face higher premiums initially.
Factors
- Long gaps since last riding
- No recent insurance history
However, costs often drop quickly after a claim-free year.
How Modifications Affect Insurance Cost
Bike modifications usually increase premiums.
Examples
- Performance upgrades
- Cosmetic changes
- Exhaust systems
All modifications must be declared—failure to do so can invalidate cover.
Monthly vs Annual Payment: Cost Differences
Paying annually
- Lower total cost
- No interest
Paying monthly
- Easier budgeting
- Often includes interest
Annual payment is usually more cost-effective if affordable.
How to Reduce Motorbike Insurance Costs in the UK
Here are practical ways to lower your premium:
- Compare multiple insurers
- Choose a higher voluntary excess
- Add approved security devices
- Limit mileage if possible
- Build a No Claims Bonus
- Avoid unnecessary modifications
- Review your policy every year
Small changes can add up to meaningful savings.
Is Motorbike Insurance Cheaper Than Car Insurance?
Not always.
While some small bikes are cheaper to insure than cars, high-performance motorcycles can be more expensive due to:
- Higher injury risk
- Theft rates
- Repair costs
Cost depends more on risk profile than vehicle type.
Common Mistakes That Increase Insurance Costs
- Not shopping around
- Overestimating mileage
- Ignoring security discounts
- Choosing unsuitable cover levels
- Failing to declare modifications
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly reduce premiums.
How Often Should You Review Your Motorbike Insurance?
You should review your policy:
- Every year before renewal
- After changing bikes
- After moving home
- After gaining more experience
Loyalty does not always equal savings.
Is the Cheapest Motorbike Insurance Always Best?
No.
The cheapest policy may:
- Have high excesses
- Offer limited cover
- Exclude key protections
Balancing cost and coverage is essential.
Final Thoughts
So, how much is motorbike insurance in the UK? The answer depends on your age, experience, bike, location, and cover choices. While costs can feel high—especially for new riders—there are many ways to reduce premiums over time.
By understanding how insurers calculate risk, choosing the right bike and cover, and reviewing policies regularly, UK riders can find motorbike insurance that is both affordable and appropriate for their needs.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Motorbike insurance prices and terms vary by insurer and individual circumstances. Always compare policies carefully before purchasing.