UK motorcyclists often find themselves in situations where annual insurance isn’t practical or necessary. Whether you’re borrowing a mate’s bike for a weekend ride, test riding a bike before you buy or just need insurance for a specific event or short-term purpose, temporary motorcycle insurance is the convenient and cost-effective solution. This type of insurance gives you flexible coverage to suit your needs, so you’re legally covered without committing to a full year’s policy. It’s perfect for riders who want flexibility, whether you’re a learner, a seasoned biker or just an occasional two-wheeler.
What is Temporary Motorcycle Insurance?
Temporary motorcycle insurance, also known as short-term motorbike insurance, covers riders for a limited period, usually from 1 day to 3 months. This type of policy is for those who don’t need annual insurance but still need to be legal for the odd ride.
Features:
- Flexible Duration: Policies can be from 1 day to several months to fit your riding needs.
- Comprehensive Cover: Many temporary policies offer comprehensive cover for riders and bikes in case of accidents or theft.
- Instant Activation: Policies can be activated immediately, perfect for last-minute riding plans.
When Do You Need Temporary Motorcycle Insurance?
There are several times when temporary motorcycle insurance is useful:
- Borrowing a Bike: If you’re using someone else’s bike temporarily, temporary insurance means you’re legal without affecting the owner’s policy.
- Test Riding: Before buying a bike, it’s a good idea to test-ride it. Temporary insurance covers you during those test rides.
- Occasional Riding: For riders who only use their bikes occasionally, such as during specific seasons or events, short-term insurance is a cheaper alternative to annual policies.
- Learner Riders: Provisional licence holders can get temporary learner motorbike insurance to ride legally.
Benefits of Temporary Motorcycle Insurance
Temporary motorcycle insurance has many benefits:
- Cheaper: Pay for what you need, not an annual policy if you don’t ride much.
- No Impact on No-Claims Bonus: Since temporary policies are separate from annual policies, any claims won’t affect your existing no-claims bonus.
- Customisable Cover: Choose your policy duration and level of cover to suit your needs.
What Affects Temporary Motorcycle Insurance Cost
The following can impact the cost of a temporary motorcycle insurance policy:
- Rider’s Age: Younger riders, especially those under 21, may pay more due to perceived risk.
- Type of Bike: High-performance or expensive bikes cost more to insure.
- Riding Experience: Riders with experience and a clean licence may pay less.
- Location: Areas with high theft or accident rates can impact the cost.
- Intended Use: Using the bike for activities like food delivery may affect the premium and require specific cover.
Temporary Motorcycle Insurance Providers in the UK
1. Tempcover
Tempcover is the UK’s number one temporary motorcycle insurance provider, offering flexible policies for last-minute needs. From 1 day to several weeks, their online platform is quick and easy to use so you can get insured now.
Features:
- From 1 day to several weeks.
- Comprehensive cover for theft, accidental damage and 3rd party liability.
- Instant quotes and immediate policy issues.
- All bike types and rider profiles are accepted, including learners and young riders.
Pros:
- The online process is quick and easy.
- Flexible durations to suit your needs.
- No effect on the no-claims bonus.
- Optional extras like breakdown cover.
Cons:
- More expensive than annual policies.
- Limited options for longer periods (beyond a few weeks).
- May have age restrictions for younger riders (under 19 or 21).
2. Bikesure
Bikesure is a motorcycle specialist and offers short-term policies from 1 day to 3 months. They cover high-performance and modified bikes too.
Features:
- All motorcycle types accepted, including mopeds, superbikes and vintage bikes.
- Legal cover up to £100,000 included as standard.
- Discounts for advanced rider qualifications and added bike security (e.g. alarms, locks).
- Policies up to 3 months.
Pros:
- For riders with modified or rare bikes.
- Incentives for safe riding and security.
- Legal cover is included in policies.
- Short-term options are available.
Cons:
- Under 19s not accepted.
- High-performance bikes can be expensive.
3. Biker Insure
Biker Insure offers temporary motorcycle insurance for short periods. They cover 1 to 7 days for riders with occasional or one-off insurance needs, such as test rides or weekend trips.
Features:
- Short-term cover from 1 to 7 days.
- The online application process is quick and simple.
- Covers all types of motorcycles, scooters and sports bikes.
Pros:
- For short-term needs, test rides or borrowed bikes.
- Comprehensive cover for theft and 3rd party liability.
- Online application is quick.
Cons:
- Maximum 7 days.
- No food delivery or seasonal options.
4. The Bike Insurer
The Bike Insurer is a comparison website that offers temporary motorcycle insurance policies from 1 day to 3 months. You can customise your cover levels and add extra protection to your policy. Covers most motorcycle types, classic and high-performance bikes.
Pros:
- You can customise your cover to your needs.
- Great for seasonal or occasional cover.
- Quotes from multiple insurers to compare.
Cons:
- Premiums can vary between insurers.
- Add-ons add to the overall cost.
5. Bike Devil
Bike Devil is temporary motorcycle insurance backed by a major European insurer. Simple and quick to issue.
Features:
- 1 day to a few weeks.
- Online application process.
- Policy documents were emailed immediately.
- Backed by a major European insurer.
Pros:
- Fast and convenient for last-minute insurance.
- Reliable cover from a well-known provider.
- Simple application process no paperwork.
Cons:
- Limited policy options.
- Under 19s may be restricted or pay more.
How to Get a Temporary Motorbike Insurance Quote
Getting a temporary motorbike insurance quote is easy. Follow these steps to get the right cover for you:
Gather Your Info:
Collect the bike details, make, model and reg number. Have your info ready, driving licence, riding history and any relevant certifications (e.g. advanced rider qualifications).
Choose a Provider:
Research and select an insurance provider that offers temporary motorcycle insurance. Consider factors like coverage options, customer reviews, and pricing.
Apply Online:
Go to the provider’s website and fill in the online application form. Enter the bike and rider details, duration of cover required and any additional features (e.g. breakdown cover or personal injury protection).
Review Your Quote:
Once you’ve applied the provider will generate a quote. Review the cover details, premium and any additional fees to make sure the policy is right for you.
Buy and Activate:
If you’re happy with the quote, buy the policy. Most providers allow you to pay online and get instant confirmation. Cover will start immediately so it’s quick and easy for last-minute requirements.
FAQs
Can I get temporary motorbike insurance?
Yes, several UK providers offer temporary motorbike insurance policies.
Is temporary motorbike insurance available for under 21s?
Some insurers offer temporary motorbike insurance for under 21s but premiums will be higher due to higher risk.
Can I get temporary motorbike insurance with a provisional license?
Yes, some providers offer temporary learner motorbike insurance for provisional licence holders so you can ride legally.
How much does short-term motorbike insurance cost?
It varies depending on the age of the rider, motorcycle, duration of cover and use. Compare quotes from multiple providers to find the best price.
Do I need insurance to test-ride a motorbike?
Yes, you need insurance to test-ride a motorbike.
