FAQs about Classic Bike Insurance
Please note that these Frequently Asked Questions are not a substitute for the policy wording. For full terms and conditions please see the policy documentation.
We know how precious your ride is to you and our aim is to find you cover that offers peace of mind. We compare policies from a carefully selected panel of UK insurers who specialise in classic motorbike cover and will present you with our best price for the cover you’re after. This can include ‘agreed value’ so if the worst should happen, you’re promised a fair payout that reflects the true worth of your bike in the event of loss or damage.
*One use per customer. Promotion valid until 31/03/2026 and must be used within six months from date of issue. Full terms and conditions can be found here: 10% discount code for Sportsbikeshop with Devitt.
**Up to 90 days EU cover is included in all our motorcycle policies. Please see your policy documents full details.
What types of classic motorbike cover are available?
Below are typical types of classic motorcycle insurance that we can offer you at Devitt:
- Third-party-only cover, which is the minimum legally required level of insurance for a motorbike; it covers the rider for claims against them when they are found to be at fault
- Third-party fire and theft cover, which covers for third-party claims, as well as situations where the policyholder’s bike sustains damage due to fire or theft
- Comprehensive cover, which not only protects against the aforementioned third-party claims and fire and theft but also represents the most comprehensive form of insurance for a motorcycle, paying for the repair or replacement of the insured bike if it is involved in an accident.
Whatever questions or concerns you might have in relation to insurance for your classic motorcycle or moped, we are just a phone call away, to help you find suitable cover.
Your policy features with Devitt
Our classic bike insurance policies aim to offer suitable cover for your classic machine.
- Appealing classic bike insurance: We compare prices from carefully selected UK insurers to offer you our best deal.
- Agreed value options: Protect your classic bike’s true value.
- 24/7 UK-based claims notification line: Ready to support you anytime you need it.
- Customisable cover options: Add extra cover options to tailor your policy.
- Multi-bike cover: Insure all your classic bikes under one policy.
- Benefit from bundled options and discounts: Enjoy savings with our Enhanced and Evolution product options.
- Insurance for modifications: Cover your bike’s custom features and upgrades.
- Instant documents: Receive your insurance details right away.
- Friendly UK support: Talk to our helpful and knowledgeable UK-based team.
To get a quote for your classic bike, fill out our online form or call 0345 872 3614.
These are brief product descriptions only. Please refer to the policy documentation paying particular attention to the terms and conditions, exclusions, warranties, subjectivities, excesses and any endorsements.
What information do I need for my Classic Bike Insurance quote?
Getting a quote couldn’t be easier, especially with our 85-year heritage – we sure know our stuff! You’ll just need a few bits of information to hand, including:
- Details of your bike
- Your annual mileage
- Your current No Claims Discount
- Any convictions or accidents
- Your occupation
- Your location
Why is classic motorbike insurance a good idea?
For one, you’re legally required to have at least third-party insurance if you drive a classic motorbike. By opting for classic motorbike insurance, the cover has been created specifically for this type of bike, offering specialised protection.
Your bike can be covered for its rare and hard-to-find parts, so that replacements maintain their original integrity. It aims to provide access to specialist mechanics who know exactly how to handle and restore classic models. Plus, agreed-value cover, aims to offer additional peace of mind.
Classic bike insurance aims to provide cover should your bike be damaged or lost during transportation to events, shows, or when moving it between locations. If you store your bike for extended periods, classic bike insurance can also cover potential risks like fire, flooding, or other damage that might occur while it’s in storage.
How much does classic bike insurance cost?
There isn’t one set price for classic bike insurance. Instead, how much you pay will depend on:
- How rare your bike is: If your classic bike is a rare or limited-edition model, it could be more expensive to insure. Rare bikes typically have higher values and which can lead them to be harder to repair or replace, which in turn may lead to higher insurance premiums.
- Your age: Younger or less experienced riders may face higher insurance costs, while older, more experienced riders might receive lower rates.
- Where you live: If your bike is kept in an area with a higher crime rate or in a less secure location, it may be more expensive to insure than bikes stored in safer, low-risk areas.
- How much you ride: If you ride your classic bike often, you might pay more for insurance than someone who rides less frequently. That’s because lower mileage generally means a lower risk of accidents.
- Your driving record: Your insurance may be more expensive if you have a history of accidents or traffic violations. A clean driving record may help keep your premium down.
How does classic motorcycle insurance differ from standard motorbike cover?
Certain aspects of classic motorbike insurance differ significantly from standard motorcycle cover. This is not only because the bikes themselves are unique, but also due to the way their owners typically treat them.
For instance, if you own a classic motorcycle, it’s unlikely you use it daily for commuting to work or running errands. Instead, like many classic bike enthusiasts, you probably take exceptional care of your motorbike and reserve it for special outings—or perhaps you don’t ride it at all.
These distinctions have led insurers to provide specialised classic motorcycle and moped policies, tailored to the specific preferences and requirements of those who own these extraordinary bikes.
Is my motorbike a classic?
Defining bikes as ‘classic’ can vary from insurer to insurer, but generally, it depends on:
- Age: Most bikes are considered classic after 20 years, though this can change depending on the insurer. Some might say 15 years, while others might require 25 or even 30 years.
- Brand: Well-known brands with a storied history, like Harley-Davidson or Triumph, often produce bikes that are considered classics.
- Rarity: If a bike was made in limited numbers or is hard to find today, it’s more likely to be considered a classic.
If you’re still unsure just give us a quick ring. And we can help you find out whether you’re eligible for classic bike insurance.
When does a motorcycle become a classic bike?
It can vary from insurer to insurer but generally your motorcycle will be considered a classic bike after 20 years; some underwriters will consider it a classic bike insurance policy for a bike that is 15 years old but others go as high as 25 or 30 years.
Although age is an important consideration, it must also be pointed out that a classic motorcycle doesn’t simply mean an old model. To be worthy of classic status, the bike needs to have demonstrated over a reasonable amount of time that it can stand on its own among the countless types of motorbikes that have and are being produced.
Some motorbike insurers even offer “future classic” policies, which are designed to cover bikes expected to become classics in the years to come.
Such diversity in the market for classic motorbike and moped insurance is one reason why you might choose to turn to Devitt for your next motorcycle insurance policy, instead of approaching insurers individually. We can help you save time by comparing insurance from a carefully selected panel of insurers in line with your specific requirements, so that you can find the most suitable policy.
What does a classic motorbike look like?
In terms of construction, a classic motorcycle should feature simple aesthetics and elements that can be easily traced back to the origins of these machines. Classic motorbikes might have an incredibly long history, but it’s characteristics such as air-cooled, two-cylinder engines, single headlights and double supports on the rear wheel that are the more typical hallmarks of classic models.
Appearance is another important element. Classics tend to have the simple lines and looks that are found on many post-World War II motorcycles.
More than anything else, classic motorbikes are those that have achieved a cult or iconic status. They stand out from the crowd because of their design quality and popularity with riders due to their excellent construction and performance. Classic models are revered by enthusiasts as they are seen to have been fantastic machines in their heyday.
Restoring and maintaining a classic motorbike is a passion for enthusiasts rather than just a hobby. Not only can you get hours of joy in working on your machine, but you can also go up and down the country for riding events to show off the fruits of your labour. Additionally, the value of classic motorbikes typically holds up well, so the time and money you spend on them may be considered an investment rather than an expense.
What are some popular classic motorbikes?
Classic bikes come in various styles by various manufacturers. Our list below includes some popular classic bikes:
- Triumph T120 Bonneville
- Triumph Tiger Cub
- Harley-Davidson WL 1950
- BSA A10 Gold Flash
- Yamaha XT500
- Royal Enfield Crusader
- Norton Commando
- Norton Commando MK3 Roadster
- Suzuki SP370
Is classic motorbike cover more, or less, expensive than standard motorcycle insurance?
Generally, older standard motorbikes are often cheaper to insure than newer models. This is largely due to their perceived lower value, meaning the insurer would likely face a smaller payout to replace them. Motorcycles that are considered classic, though, are in a separate category altogether and may require a higher premium depending on the value of the bike.
In some cases, classic motorbike insurance can still be less than insurance for a standard bike because classic bikes represent a lower risk, statistically speaking, to insurers. They are typically owned by older and more experienced riders, for example, who don’t tend to travel as many miles as non-classic bike riders. These factors may all help drive down the risk, which may translate into lower premiums.
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