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Scooters and Mopeds

Insurance for scooters and mopeds is easy to find and set-up.

Firstly, scooters and mopeds have their own definitions.

A scooter is defined by its step-through frame – as opposed to step-over, as with a motorcycle frame – or by the engine being a part of the rear suspension, usually to the rear and one-side of the rider. Engine size, in cubic centimetres, doesn’t really come into it, nor does wheel size, although some scooter definitions state that wheels should be less than 16 inches in diameter. It can have a manual, or automatic transmission, and be equipped with front fairings, or floor boards. That’s it, although there are numerous variations and insurance companies tend to focus on particular manufacturer’s models, rather than ensuring a machine meets the industry, not legal, definition.

Therefore, a scooter can be seen as a moped, or a motorcycle, depending on its engine size, and this is what mainly determines the cost of insurance. You can ride one from the age of 16, if it is less than 50cc (effectively a moped).

A moped has a legal definition: it is classed as a motorized two-wheeled vehicle, which must have an engine capacity of 50cc, or less, and have a restricted top speed of no more than 30 mph. A number also have pedals and come in various scooter and motorcycle styles. You can ride one from the age of 16.

To ride both, you must have a provisional licence and successfully passed the Compulsory Basic Training course. You must also display learner plates. For a bigger scooter (less than 125cc), you need to be 17, or over.

As to the insurance, you’ll need to consider what make and model you’re attempting to insure, your budget, whether you want to pay yearly, or monthly, if you qualify for some no-claim bonus years, if you want overseas cover, if you have a number of machines to cover, or whether you want to embellish your policy with breakdown cover, legal expenses and personal injury cover.

Also, you would want to take a look at extra training courses which, when passed, will qualify you for reduced premiums.

Scooter and moped insurance; there are plenty of policies and options out there.