What is Classic Motorcycle Insurance?

When your motorcycle is beyond a certain age, it becomes a classic motorcycle. Then, it demands extra protection and specialized insurance, which is classic motorcycle insurance. 

A classic motorcycle is usually at least 20 years old. 

Keeping a classic motorcycle is love’s labour. A classic bike insurance costs less than other bike insurance if you have a safe place to park it. 

Also, unlike other bikes, most classic bikes appreciate their value with time. 

How old for classic motorcycle insurance?

There is no set definition of a classic/vintage/retro motorcycle but generally, a motorcycle 20-30 years old is considered a classic motorcycle. 

Different motorcycle insurance providers have different criteria for what makes a classic bike. If you had a motorbike for at least 2 decades, you’ll get classic motorcycle insurance quotes from top providers. 

Getting Classic Motorcycle Insurance Directly vs Buying through Comparison Sites

Insurance comparison sites offer a quick overview of different classic motorcycle insurance quotes. There are certain advantages of using classic motorcycle insurance comparison sites, such as:

• Saves Time: motorcycle insurance comparison websites surely save time. You get many classic motorbike insurance quotes in a short time. If you had to do it yourself, the same process could take hours, if not days. 

• Find the Best Deals: Comparing is the only way to get the best deals for your vintage motorcycle. All motorcycle insurance comparison sites gather quotes from many brokers/insurance companies. You can weigh your options and decide which insurance plan is the best for you. 
• Expert Advice: Many insurance comparison websites also offer expert advice on quotes. You get the comments on the best insurance package for you.

Cut to the chase, check our list of the top 10 motorcycle insurance companies in the UK. 

How much is classic motorcycle insurance?

Classic motorcycle insurance cost depends on many factors and the final quote will be different for each classic bike. Factors affecting classic motorcycle insurance costs include;

• Bike’s age
• Modifications
• Rider’s age and riding record 
• Claims history, etc. 

The insurance price also changes for different types of insurance coverage. These three are the insurance coverage types.

• Third Party: This type of insurance coverage only covers losses to others’ vehicles or property. It does not cover your losses in an accident. 
• Third Party, Fire & Theft: This coverage includes everything in third party, plus theft or fire damage to your bike. 
• Fully Comprehensive Coverage: This is complete coverage for your motorcycle. It covers all losses caused to you or others. 

Classic Motorcycle Insurance Multi Bike Quote 

You can save money by getting multi-bike insurance for your whole collection. The number of bikes in a group and the insurance cost vary with different insurers. 

However, some classic motorcycle insurance providers have a restriction. 

You can have either one rider with multiple bikes insured under one policy, or one bike insured for many insured/named riders. 

The way around this restriction is to find an insurer that allows multiple riders on a single policy. For example, Peter James Insurance allows multiple riders on a single policy provided that the policyholder owns all of the bikes.

Also, the cost of fire and theft coverage stays the same as the bikes are still exposed to these threats. 

Most insurers offer multi-bike insurance for any combination of bikes, like classic, modern, mopeds, or scooters. You can insure your whole motorcycle fleet. 

Bennet, a leading motorcycle insurer in the UK, offers classic motorcycle insurance multi bike (for a mix of classic-classic or modern-classic bikes) from just £319. Another leading insurer, BeMoto, explained how classic multi-bike insurance works in this blog, have a look. 

Dave from Peter James Insurance suggests getting a multi-bike insurance for your whole collection. Buying multi-bike insurance gets you discounted premium and a single renewal date.  

“We would always recommend picking up the phone and speaking to a specialist, rather than obtaining quotes online.  This is particularly true when looking at cover for multiple bikes, whether that be for classic collections or adding a modern bike to a classic policy.  We understand that most enthusiasts, particularly as they get older will have a modern bike as part of their collection as a regular ‘run-around.’ Peter James Insurance, the team behind the VMCC Insurance scheme can help by offering a single policy to cover a whole collection providing the convenience of a single renewal date as well as a discounted premium.”

Laura from Abbeyfields Insurance also recommends buying multi bike insurance if you have many bikes. She advises looking for a policy that offers the flexibility of adding or swapping bikes. Also, according to her, you may get discounts if some bikes are rarely ridden or stored securely.

Laura comments.

“If you’re lucky enough to own multiple bikes—whether they’re all classic or a mix of classic and modern—multi-bike insurance can simplify your coverage and save you money. Here’s what to consider when finding a great deal on multi-bike insurance:

Multi-bike discounts: Insuring several bikes under one policy is almost always cheaper than insuring them individually.

Flexible policies: Look for providers that let you adjust your policy as your add or swap bikes. This flexibility can save you time and money.

Specialist Providers: Not all insurers are equipped to handle classic-modern combinations. Find one that understands both types of motorcycles to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Declare usage and value: Be transparent about how often you use each bike. Insurers often discount policies when some bikes are rarely ridden or stored securely.”

Classic Moped Insurance & Classic Scooter Insurance 

If you have a classic moped or scooter, like Lambretta or Vespa, getting classic moped insurance or classic scooter insurance is the right idea. 

The cost of classic moped insurance is usually cheaper than the full motorcycle insurance. The reasons for this low price are smaller engines, low value, and lesser threat of theft.

Mopeds are few and classic mopeds are even fewer. How many times have you seen a classic Vespa on the road? For its rarity and perceived preciousness to its owner, classic Vespa insurance is cheaper. 

How to get classic motorcycle insurance?

Here is a step-by-step process for getting classic motorcycle insurance UK. 

Collect Important Information

Keep important information about your bike and your riding history at hand. You will need to give this information to get a quote. Note down things like motorcycle make, model, year, engine size, and modification details. 

Assess Your Insurance Needs 

You will need to choose between third party only, third party + fire & theft, and full comprehensive insurance. You need to have at least third-party insurance to ride your motorcycle, scooter, or moped. 

Compare Quotes

Try to get as many insurance quotes as possible. When you go to insurance comparison websites like GoCompare, CompareTheMarket, etc., you get about 20 quotes on average with one request. 

These quotes help you find the best deal. Or at least you’ll be able to negotiate better. 

Check for Discounts

If you have many no-claim years, security devices installed on your motorcycle, or you need multi-bike insurance, you can get discounts. Discuss these with your insurance agent. 

Choose a Provider and Apply for Insurance 

By now, you understand the process and have vintage motorcycle insurance quotes from different companies. 

Choose an insurance provider and apply for insurance. 

Dave from Peter James Insurance stresses on agreeing the value of the vintage motorcycle up-front. That way, you’ll save yourself from haggling in the event of a claim.

Dave is the collaborations and partnerships director at Peter James Insurance. He collaborates with motorcycle clubs, like Vintage Motor Cycle Club, and help club members find the best insurance deals for their classic motorcycles. Here is his advise on getting classic motorcycle insurance. 

“Whilst it’s simple enough to compare motorcycle insurance prices online it’s not always obvious what those policies actually offer.  Most classic bike owners would treat their bike like another member of the family so, often the cheapest cover is not necessarily the right choice.  With a classic bike the certainty of an agreed value policy should provide peace of mind – by agreeing the value of the machine up-front at the time of policy inception you take away all the worry about haggling over the value in the event of a claim.

VMCC members can also take advantage of a number of additional policy benefits.  Member-to-member cover provides comprehensive cover for members to ride each other’s bikes.  Free salvage retention ensures that, in the event of a total loss, the member would receive payment for the full value of the bike and may also keep the salvage without deduction from the settlement.  This can allow those with the necessary skills to rebuild, or could provide a useful supply of donor parts to keep another machine on the road.”

Laura from Abbeyfields Insurance also stresses the importance of looking for an insurance policy that offers agreed value. She reminds us to check that the vintage motorcycle insurance policies cover any modifications. Doing so ensures that our bikes are fully protected and that the changes we made with love are not lost.

“Classic motorcycles aren’t just vehicles; they’re investments, hobbies, and sometimes even family heirlooms and because of this, you need a policy that treats your bike with the care it deserves. Here’s what you should look for when taking out classic bike insurance:

Find a specialist insurance broker: Look for a broker experienced in classic vehicles. They understand the unique needs of collectors and often have specialist schemes, rates and benefits tailored for classic bike policies.

Agreed Value: Classic bikes often appreciate in value, so look for a policy offering agreed value. This ensures in a total loss that you are paid the value agreed with the insurer, rather than the market value.

Modifications cover: If your classic bike has been restored or customised, check that modifications are covered as some insurers may exclude these or refuse cover when not declared.

Club Discounts: If you are a member of an enthusiasts’ group or club you can get discounts off your premium.”

Important Extras for Vintage Motorcycle Insurance

These are some extra covers you should consider when insuring your antique or vintage motorcycle insurance. 

The type of cover available varies for different insurance providers. Many classic motorcycle insurers may only offer some of these extra covers. Make sure to confirm these details with your agent before purchasing insurance. 

• Helmet and Leathers Cover: A handy insurance cover that compensates you for damage or loss of your helmet or motorcycle leathers.  
• Pillion Cover: If you have a fellow rider for your motorcycle, we strongly advise adding a pillion cover. Not doing so can invalidate your current classic motorcycle insurance policy, and can make you liable for pillion losses too.  
• Breakdown Cover: This type of insurance cover protects you if your classic bike breaks down on the road. The cover includes repair and recovery. 
• Modification Insurance: Protect any important modifications to your motorcycle with a modification cover. 
• Legal Cover: Protects you from any legal expenses in case of an accident, when you are hit or when you hit someone.  
• Events Cover: This cover is for motorcycle events like races, rallies, trade shows, etc.,  
• International Cover: When you ride across borders, consider having an international cover. Make sure your destination countries are included in the cover. 
• Personal Accident Cover: If you get hurt in a motorcycle accident, a personal accident cover will compensate for your expenses and injuries. 

What's my motorcycle worth?

Knowing your motorcycle’s worth is the first step in getting classic motorbike insurance. Settle on motorcycle’s worth with your insurance broker to protect its real value. 

Before buying agreed value insurance, it is a good idea to get an independent valuation for your motorcycle. 

Over 50s Motorcycle Insurance

Old riders, typically over 50, can get cheaper classic motorcycle insurance. This is because your riding experience is a risk factor. Young riders pay more than older riders for motorcycle insurance. 

However, other terms and conditions also apply as the final criteria for heritage motorcycle insurance price is risk. If an older rider is a high-risk rider, their insurance can be expensive, despite their age. 

For example, a convict with many road crashes on their record living in a high-risk area will pay more in classic motorcycle insurance premium despite their age. 

If you are older, have been riding for long, and have a clean record, you’ll get cheaper insurance for your vintage motorcycle. 

Dave from Peter James Insurance recommends buying classic motorcycle insurance for riders above 50 through a club, like VMCC. Motorcycle clubs often negotiate better insurance deals for their members.

However, these club require you to be a member of the member to access these deals. The membership costs a small fee.

“Typically, classic bike owners are riders in their 50’s or above, our eldest policyholder is well into his 90’s. If we were to offer advice it would be to join a club, and consider insuring through the club insurance scheme. Most classic bike clubs will have negotiated an insurance scheme which, not only contains additional rider benefits like those mentioned above but will also have rates that have been negotiated/designed for the most appropriate demographic. VMCC Insurance can cover riders at both ends of the age spectrum although the vast majority will fall into a 50-70 age band.”

Laura from Abbeyfields Insurance reveals that age is not a major restriction in getting vintage motorcycle insurance, as her company offers classic motorbike insurance to customers as old as 79.

When researching the best companies for classic motorcycle insurance, I learned that even much older riders can get insurance. Some motorcycle insurance companies even have clients in their 90s.

It is also worth noting that insurance deals for a 30-year-old and a 50-year-old don’t generally differ much. These are mostly extra insurance covers that change for older riders. Also, lesser risk for older rides reduces insurance premiums.

Here is Laura’s advice for motorcycle insurance classic.

“We understand that experience comes with age, and our policies reflect that by offering competitive rates for riders over 50. Here’s what you should know:

Tailored Quotes for Older Riders: We provide insurance for riders up to the age of 79 on classic bikes. For existing customers, there’s no upper age limit, so you can keep enjoying your bike well into the future.

Call for a Quote: We always recommend calling us directly. Our team will work with you to find the best policy to suit your riding habits and ensure you’re fully covered.”

Classic Honda Motorcycle Insurance 

A vast majority of classic motorcycles are Japanese. All classic motorcycle insurance offers are available for Japanese vintage motorcycles. 

There is a group of passionate vintage Japanese motorcycle owners, called Vintage Japanese Motorcycle Club. They negotiate special classic motorcycle insurance deals for their members from reputable motorcycle insurance brokers, including Foot James Insurance, Carole Nash Insurance, Peter James Insurance, and RH Insurance. Check it out!

What are motorcycle insurance groups lists?

Motorcycle insurance groups in the UK are simply a system of categorizing motorcycles for calculating insurance premiums. 

The basis of motorcycle insurance grouping is the motorcycles’ performance, newness, and value. 

Generally, the higher the group number, the more you’ll pay in insurance premium. 

Other factors, like risk, also play an important part in determining a motorcycle’s insurance group. If the insurers see a pattern of higher risk for a brand, model, or area, they will up the insurance prices accordingly. 

FAQs

How much is classic motorcycle insurance?

Classic motorcycle insurance is generally cheaper than modern motorcycle insurance. Most classic motorcycles’ insurance premium can start between £300-£400. The exact price depends on many factors, including the bike’s age, rider’s age, bike model, bike modifications, rider’s record, etc. 

How old for classic motorcycle insurance?

Wondering what age does classic motorcycle insurance start! Most motorcycle companies consider a motorcycle a classic one if it is 20-30 years old. However, the exact age depends on the insurance company as some companies can consider a 15 years old bike a classic one, while others may require it to be 25 years or older. 

Is classic motorcycle insurance cheaper?

Generally yes, classic motorcycle insurance is cheaper. The assumption is that classic motorcycles are ridden less, and less mileage means less risk, hence cheaper insurance. Also, classic motorcycle riders are older and more experienced, which again reduces risk. 

Can I insure a classic motorcycle on a multi-bike insurance?

Multi-bike insurance is available for classic bikes, modern bikes, and a combination of classic-modern bikes. Buying a multi-bike insurance is cheaper than buying separate insurance for each bike. 

How to register a 40 year old motorcycle?

Here is a simple step-by-step process of registering a 40-years-old motorcycle. 

• Complete form V765
• Get motorcycle dating certification and get it endorsed by a vehicle owners' club. 
• Provide recent pictures of your motorcycles, along with original registration documents. 
• Submit form V55/5 too if your bike was first registered before 1983. 
• For classic bikes without substantial modifications, complete the V112 MOT exemption form as your bike is MOT exempt. 
• Get classic motorbike insurance as soon you get registration for your 40-years-old motorcycle. 

Does a 30 year old motorcycle need an MOT?

30-year-old motorcycles need an MOT. The bike needs to be roadworthy or you can be fined or prosecuted for riding an unsafe bike. 

Can I ride a vintage motorbike on my car licence?

You can't ride a vintage motorcycle on a car's license. However, you can ride a moped up to 50cc without compulsory basic training or L plates. Still, you need category ‘P’ on your license. 

What is classed as a classic motorcycle?

A motorcycle older than 20 years old is often classed as a classic motorcycle. For insurance purposes, the criteria can vary by the insurer as some companies may consider a 15-year-old motorcycle a classic, while others prefer a 25-years or older motorcycle to be called a classic motorcycle.