What is 50cc bike insurance?

If you have a small engine moped or scooter, then 50cc motorbike insurance is likely essential for getting on the road. Purchase third-party only (TPO), third-party fire and theft (TPFT) or comprehensive coverage for your bike to help protect against unforeseen circumstances.

Despite having the smallest engine on UK roads, 50cc bikes are an excellent low-cost starter vehicle. They're popular with young people, commuters, and even delivery riders looking for an economical mode of transport.

Do I need 50cc bike insurance?

Yes, you need 50cc bike insurance if you want to drive a scooter or moped on UK roads. You can ride a 50cc scooter from the age of 16, so long as you do the following things:

  • Apply for and receive a provisional driver's licence
  • Take and pass the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) test (you must re-take the CBT every two years until passing a moped or motorcycle test)
  • Display L-plates
  • Tax and insure your bike

What types of 50cc bike insurance are there? 

Third-party only 

TPO is the UK's minimum legal requirement for insurance. It helps provide cover for damage or injury to another person or their property if you cause an accident. However, you and your bike will not be covered, so you cannot claim with your Third Party Only 50cc insurance for damage to your bike or your property. A third-party-only policy also does not cover damage caused by theft or fire. 

Third-party, fire and theft

In addition to third-party only cover, a TPFT policy will also assist in providing cover if your bike is stolen or damaged by fire.

Insurance description

Comprehensive

Comprehensive 50cc motorbike insurance provides everything included under third-party fire and theft policy type, and will also help to provide cover if your bike is damaged or destroyed in an accident.

What add-ons are available for your policy?

Our quotation service will list the range of 50cc insurance quotes available to you, starting with the cheapest policy first.

These quotes are for the basic policy price only, so if you have a specific need for something extra on your insurance policy, there are a range of optional ad-ons that might be available from your insurance provider after you have received your quote from The Bike Insurer.

Some examples of these are listed below:

Breakdown cover

If your motorcycle breaks down, this add-on is designed to cover the cost of assistance. Depending on the circumstances, you could receive tow truck services or emergency roadside repairs. 

Legal expenses cover

If you're involved in an incident that results in a claim, this add-on can help cover some or even all of your legal expenses.

Protection for no-claims discount 

No-claims discount protection allows you to make a certain number of claims within a specified period without voiding your no-claims discount, but it's an add-on, so you'll need to pay for this protection.

Cover for personal injuries 

If you are involved in an accident that leads to a serious injury, permanent disability, or accidental death, this add-on may provide significant compensation.

Helping riders save money on motorbike insurance for 17 years!

How much does 50cc bike insurance cost?

50cc moped insurance is typically inexpensive compared to the cost of insurance for larger capacity motorbikes. However, there is no set price: how much you pay will depend on several factors, including your personal circumstances, previous driving history and the motorbike itself. Factors that affect the cost include:

Rider’s age: Younger riders usually face higher insurance premiums. Due to their lack of experience, insurers consider them more of a risk and, therefore, more likely to make a claim.

Level of cover: The level of cover you choose could impact the price significantly. TPO 50cc bike insurance is sometimes cheaper, but not always, so it makes sense to get the best cover you can for your circumstances, which is not always the cheapest cover available.

Add-ons or extras: Purchasing policy add-ons will increase the cost of your insurance. Check your policy details to ensure you do not purchase unnecessary extras already included in your 50cc insurance.

Type of licence: Insurers consider riders with a full motorcycle licence to be more experienced as they’ve passed a full motorcycle test. By passing additional tests, such as advanced riders courses, you could lower the cost of your 50cc moped insurance premiums.

Driving record: You may be seen as a more reliable rider if you’ve been driving for a long time and have been involved in little or no accidents. New licence holders with previous claims in other vehicles may face higher 50cc insurance costs.

Bike make and model: 50cc motorbike insurance usually costs more for expensive bikes, such as race replicas or vintage bikes. They are more likely to be targeted by thieves and could be costly to repair in the event of an accident. Opting for a cheaper, less valuable bike may lower your premiums.

How can I reduce my insurance cost?

Although some circumstances cannot be changed, you can take steps to keep your 50cc insurance costs low.

Hold a full licence

Full licence holders have more experience and training. Insurers may lower the cost of your 50cc moped insurance if they see you as experienced and qualified.

Provide accurate mileage

50cc motorbikes are typically used for small commutes and trips. You can help make your insurance more affordable by providing insurers with accurate mileage information that reflects your motorcycle’s likely travel distance over the course of a year.

Improve security measures

Taking extra security measures can show insurers you’re serious about protecting your motorcycle. Invest in anti-theft accessories like locks and alarms to reduce your 50cc motorbike insurance costs.

Compare quotes

By using The Bike Insurer, we’ll rank all the providers who quote for your 50cc insurance cheapest first, but remember that the cheapest policy may not be the right policy for you. It’s about having the right coverage at the right price.

Secure parking

Keeping your motorcycle in front of your property or on the street may increase the risk of damage or theft. Show insurers you take care of your bike by storing it in a secure location, like a storage facility or a lock-up on your property. If that’s not possible, invest in approved security features like disc locks or ground anchors.

Higher voluntary excess

You might be able to reduce the cost of 50cc moped insurance by increasing the amount you agree to pay in the event of a claim. However, you must ensure you have sufficient funds to cover the agreed voluntary amount and any compulsory excess on your chosen policy.

Use smart tagging

Smart tagging solutions allow your bike to be tracked if stolen, even if the number plates have been removed or changed.

Pay annually

Paying your insurance in a yearly lump sum may remove the administration fees common with monthly instalments. While you may pay more initially, you could pay less overall.

Secure parking

Keeping your motorcycle in front of your property or on the street may increase the risk of damage or theft. Show insurers you take care of your bike by storing it in a secure location, like a storage facility or a lock-up on your property. If that’s not possible, invest in approved security features like disc locks or ground anchors.

Higher voluntary excess

You might be able to reduce the cost of 50cc moped insurance by increasing the amount you agree to pay in the event of a claim. However, you must ensure you have sufficient funds to cover the agreed voluntary amount and any compulsory excess on your chosen policy.

Use smart tagging

Smart tagging solutions allow your bike to be tracked if stolen, even if the number plates have been removed or changed.

Pay annually

Paying your insurance in a yearly lump sum may remove the administration fees common with monthly instalments. While you may pay more initially, you could pay less overall.

50cc insurance on a provisional licence

Although you don’t need a full driving licence to ride a 50cc machine, you still need valid 50cc moped insurance to ride on the UK’s public highways. You can ride a 50cc motorbike indefinitely, even if you never plan to get a full motorcycle licence (assuming you pass your CBT test every two years, which of course you’ll have to pay for!).

Although riding with a provisional licence is convenient, it does have limitations. Provisional riders must always display their learner plates, cannot drive on motorways, and are prohibited from carrying passengers. It’s probably advantageous to get your full licence once you’ve purchased your bike.

Do I need insurance for a 50cc dirt bike?

If you ride your dirt bike on a public highway, even momentarily, without valid insurance then you will be breaking the law.

If your dirt bike will only ever be used on private property, then you don’t need insurance, but remember that if you have an accident and damage yourself, your bike or someone else’s property you won’t have any insurance cover in place.

You can buy off-road insurance by calling the number at the top of this page.

Insurance description

How to get an AM moped licence

The UK government lists three ways you can obtain a moped licence:

Route 1: Full car licence gained before 01/02/2001

If you obtained your full car licence before the 1st of February 2001, you can ride a 50cc bike without L plates under the following conditions:

  • You are over the age of 16

  • Your bike is below 4kW and no more than 50cc

Route 2: Full car licence gained after 01/02/2001

If you obtained your full car licence after the 1st of February 2001, and have also passed a CBT, you can drive a 50cc moped without the L-plates displayed and subject to the above power and engine size restrictions.

Route 3: Valid provisional driving licence

If you have a valid provisional driving licence and have passed the CBT test, you can ride a moped with L plates until the CBT expires. You can then go on to complete a two-part practical moped test if you have a valid theory test certificate.

Once you pass the two-part practical test, you can drive a moped without L-plates and carry pillion passengers. However, those who haven't passed their theory test must complete the first motorcycle exam before they can sit the two-part practical.

Compare insurance quotes now!

Helping riders save money on motorbike insurance for 17 years!

Why choose The Bike Insurer?

The Bike Insurer has provided UK riders with price comparison services since 2006. With affordable quotes from reputable insurers, we want to give you and your bike the best protection possible.

Our customers trust us to deliver outstanding service, and we'll always prioritise your needs. To receive insurance price comparison services for 50cc bike insurance over the phone, call 0330 022 7850 or simply complete our online form, it only takes about 5 minutes!

How to get a quote

Before receiving 50cc moped insurance quotes, we'll ask you several questions about your personal information, driving history, and what you're looking for. Prepare to be asked for information such as:

  • Your personal details, like name and address
  • Your employment status, licence type, and riding experience
  • Details of any additional rider(s)
  • The type of insurance you're looking for
  • Details of your motorbike

FAQs

What is a 50cc motorcycle?

50cc bikes (mopeds or scooters) have an engine size of 50 cubic centimetres and no more. They are small, lightweight and popular with beginners or young drivers.

What is the minimum age to ride a 50cc motorcycle?

Riders 16 and older can operate a 50cc bike.

Can I carry a passenger on a 50cc moped?

If you do not have L plates, you can take a passenger on a 50cc moped.

Which type of insurance is mandatory for scooters?

The UK’s minimum legal 50cc insurance requirement is a Third-Party only insurance policy. However, many riders opt for comprehensive cover, as it also protects against fire damage, theft and may help cover damages to you and your bike.

How much is the tax for a 50cc moped?

The tax rate on 50cc mopeds is location specific. However, the tax for these bikes is usually quite affordable due to their smaller size and lower emissions. We recommend checking with your local authority.

What is CBT?

The CBT, short for compulsory basic training, is a course that covers basic riding skills, road safety, and other essential topics for new riders.

Why should I take a 50cc moped test?

A 50cc moped test allows you to obtain a full licence to ride 50cc bikes on public roads without L plates. It also helps ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a moped safely.

Can I ride a 50cc moped or scooter with a car driving licence?

Yes, but if you obtained your licence after 1 February 2001 you must complete a CBT test first.

Can I ride a 50cc moped on the motorway?

50cc mopeds are currently not allowed on UK motorways, largely due to their top speed of around only 30 miles per hour.

Is 50cc motorcycle insurance cheaper on a provisional licence?

The cost of your premium will depend on your personal details, driving experience and motorbike.

Is third-party only insurance the most affordable option for a 50cc moped?

While third-party insurance is the UK’s minimum legal requirement, it may not always be the cheapest. Fluctuating rates for 50cc insurance and add-ons may raise or lower the cost of your policy.

Can I ride another person’s 50cc moped if I have a fully comprehensive insurance policy?

Whether you can ride someone else’s 50cc moped with your insurance cover depends on the terms and conditions of your own policy. Some fully comprehensive 50cc bike insurance policies may allow it but check beforehand to avoid invalidating your policy.