How Much Does It Cost to Insure a 125cc Bike?

A 125cc motorbike is a popular starting point for many new and younger riders in the UK. A 125cc motorbike strikes a balance between power and practicality, making it ideal for commuting and daily riding.

However, while the bikes themselves tend to be relatively affordable, insurance costs can be quite high. While some people might get away with fairly low premiums, the average premium is £1,429.77^*. You may even end up paying more if you’re classed as a high-risk driver. It all depends heavily on your circumstances, the bike’s specifications, and how you use it.

In this guide, we'll break down the types of insurance available, explain what influences your premium, and show you the best ways to reduce costs. We'll also touch on other associated expenses and tell you how to find the best deals on insurance premiums.

 *Based on 2,935 of the cheapest premiums shown to customers between 15/06/24 and 25/06/25.

In This Guide:

• What type of insurance do you need for a 125cc bike?
• What affects the cost of 125cc bike insurance
• How to save money on 125cc bike insurance
• Other costs involved in owning a 125cc motorbike
• Find the best premiums to protect your 125cc motorbike
• FAQs

What affects the cost of 125cc bike insurance

Unfortunately, there is no single answer to the question 'How much is it to insure a 125cc bike?' Insurance premiums vary massively depending on the rider and their individual circumstances.

To help you get an idea of what you can expect to be quoted for your motorcycle insurance, let's take a look at several key factors that insurers consider when calculating your premium:

Age, postcode, and riding history

Your age plays a major role in determining your motorbike insurance costs. Younger riders — especially those under 21 — often face higher premiums due to their perceived inexperience.

Your postcode also has a part to play. People in urban areas with high traffic or vehicle crime rates often pay higher premiums than their counterparts in quiet rural locations.

Your riding history is another important part of your risk profile. If you’ve made motorbike insurance claims in the past or have penalty points on your licence, you can unfortunately expect to pay more.

Typical usage

In insurance terms, more time on the road equals more risk. So, insurers will want to know how often you'll be riding and how far you’ll be going before they make a calculation. Again, location can make a difference here. A daily commute across a busy city will attract a higher premium than occasional weekend rides through the countryside. Basically, the more you use your bike, the higher the risk and the higher the insurance premium.

Bike model and modification

Not all 125cc bikes are equal. Sports-style bikes may cost more to insure than more modest commuter options. Similarly, modifications like engine tuning, exhaust upgrades, and cosmetic changes could increase your motorcycle insurance premium because they can raise both performance and theft risk.

Storage and security

Where you store your bike overnight makes a big difference. A locked garage, for example, is much less risky than street parking and will therefore attract lower premiums. Using extra security measures like ground anchors, immobilisers, and trackers can also bring your motorbike insurance costs down.

How to save money on 125cc bike insurance

If you're a young rider living in an urban area with high annual mileage, average motorcycle insurance premiums may feel unfairly high.

If so, don't worry. There are several effective ways to get your motorbike insurance costs down without compromising on cover. Let's take a look at the most reliable ways to save money on motorbike insurance:

Build up a no-claims bonus

Admittedly, this isn't easy for young and new riders, but it gets easier over time. Every year you go without making a claim earns you a no-claims bonus (NCB). Over time, this can significantly reduce your motorbike insurance premium. Building up a no-claims bonus is one of the most reliable ways to cut motorbike insurance costs in the long term.

Gain advanced riding qualifications

Taking compulsory basic training is essential to get on the road, but you can improve your riding skills and reduce your motorbike insurance by going a bit further and getting advanced riding qualifications.

Completing an accredited advanced riding course, such as those offered by the DVSA’s Enhanced Rider Scheme or IAM RoadSmart, shows insurers that you're a skilled rider who's committed to responsible riding. This lowers your risk profile and may earn you discounts on your premium, but this will depend on your insurance provider.

Use telematics

Telematics, or "black box" policies, involve installing a GPS tracker that monitors your riding habits. If the black box data shows that you consistently ride safely and responsibly, your insurer may reduce your premium as a result. This type of insurance can be especially helpful for younger or inexperienced riders without an established riding history.

Get security upgrades

Fitting approved security measures such as disc locks, chains, alarms, or trackers not only helps protect your bike but also shows your insurer that you're serious about safety. Some providers offer discounts for specific security products — shop around and see what deals are available for well-secured bikes.

Paying annually rather than monthly

Monthly payments may seem more manageable, but they usually come with interest, which makes your policy more expensive in the long term. If you can afford to pay for your insurance in a lump sum annually, you’ll often save a substantial amount over the course of the year.

Other costs involved in owning a 125cc motorbike

Beyond insurance, there are several recurring or occasional costs associated with owning a 125cc motorbike in the UK. It's worth factoring these in when you're working out what motorcycle insurance you can afford:

• Vehicle excise duty (road tax): Around £26 per year for 125cc bikes
• MOT: Annual test required when your bike is over three years old, typically costs £30–£40
• Servicing and maintenance: Regular servicing costs vary, but budget around £100–£200 per year
• Fuel: 125cc bikes are very fuel-efficient, often returning over 100mpg. But they do still incur fuel costs.
• Breakdown cover: Optional but useful, typically £70–£120 per year
• Riding gear: Helmet (legally required), jacket, gloves, and other protective gear can be an expensive investment, but are necessary to ensure safety
• CBT training: Compulsory basic training for new riders usually costs £130–£170
• Licence upgrades: Progressing to a full licence will incur additional training and test fees

Find the best premiums to protect your 125cc motorbike

To find the best value for your motorcycle insurance, it pays to shop around and compare quotes from multiple providers. This will help you find competitive 125cc motorcycle insurance from trusted providers, with filters for cover level, excess, and optional extras.

Timing can also make a difference. Research shows that buying your insurance 2–3 weeks before the renewal date often results in lower prices than purchasing on the day.

When comparing motorcycle insurance quotes, remember to read the fine print and make sure that your chosen policy meets your needs. The cheapest premium is not always the best value if it leaves you in a bad position in the event of an accident.

FAQs

Is it cheaper to insure a 125cc scooter than a motorbike?

Yes, in many cases it is cheaper to insure a 125cc scooter than a motorbike with a larger engine if it is a basic model. Scooters typically have less powerful engines and more basic styling, which means that they are considered lower risk than sportier motorbikes. That being said, your premium will still vary depending on personal factors such as your age, riding experience, and location.

Can a 17-year-old get affordable 125cc insurance?

It’s possible, but unfortunately, it is unlikely to be cheap. Riders aged 17 are considered high-risk, especially if they’ve just completed their CBT. Premiums could exceed £1,400 annually. However, using telematics, keeping the bike standard, and securing the bike well can help reduce the cost.

Do learner riders need insurance?

Yes, insurance is legally required even if you are a learner. Once you’ve completed your CBT and are riding on L-plates, you legally need at least third-party insurance before riding on public roads.