Motorbike insurance is a crucial part of owning and riding a bike in a city like London. It’s more than just a legal necessity. it’s about protecting yourself, your vehicle, and others on the road. In a city where theft, congestion, and unpredictable road conditions are common, having reliable insurance can offer both financial protection and peace of mind.
This blog explores the top 10 motorbike insurance companies in London and what makes them stand out. But before we look at the list, let’s understand what makes an insurer reliable, how to compare them, and how riders can get the most value from their policies.
What Makes a Motorbike Insurance Company Reliable in London?
Local Knowledge and Urban Risk Adaptation
A reliable motorbike insurance company in London must understand the unique risks riders face in the capital. Unlike rural areas, London presents challenges such as high theft rates, dense traffic, and frequent stop-start journeys. Insurers who recognise this tailor their coverage with urban features such as theft recovery, no-claims protection, and city-centre repair networks.
Proven Track Record in Claims Handling
An insurer is only as good as its performance when something goes wrong. Riders need a company that processes claims quickly, fairly, and transparently. Good insurers will often have 24/7 claims support, dedicated helplines, and online claim tracking tools to ensure riders aren’t left waiting during critical times.
Regulatory Approval and Financial Stability
In the UK, insurers must be authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This ensures the provider follows legal standards for customer protection, financial conduct, and complaint resolution. Additionally, established financial strength is vital especially when it comes to settling high-value claims or covering extensive damage.
How to Compare Motorbike Insurance Providers in the UK?
Evaluating Policy Features Beyond the Premium
Many riders make the mistake of only comparing the annual premium. While affordability matters, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. A valuable insurance policy also includes comprehensive coverage options, roadside assistance, legal cover, and protections for personal gear. Some insurers may offer perks like helmet and leather cover or temporary foreign use.
Understanding Exclusions and Excess
Policy documents often include small print detailing what isn’t covered. For instance, many insurers exclude coverage if the rider fails to secure the bike with an approved lock. Equally, understanding your policy’s excess how much you pay in the event of a claim is critical. A cheaper policy may hide a high excess that costs you more later.
Using Online Comparison Tools Effectively
Websites such as CompareTheMarket and MoneySuperMarket have made it easier than ever to get quick quotes. However, the cheapest provider isn’t always the best. Riders should dig into customer reviews, service ratings, and optional extras before clicking ‘buy’.
Which Are the Top 10 Motorbike Insurance Companies in London?
1. Devitt Insurance – Trusted Since 1936 by UK Riders
Devitt Insurance has earned its name over generations as one of the UK’s most established motorbike insurance providers. Since 1936, it has focused specifically on the biking community, developing a nuanced understanding of what riders need, especially in busy cities like London.
Whether you’re a commuter using a mid-size motorcycle, a tourer heading out of town on weekends, or a track-day enthusiast, Devitt provides insurance solutions that align with every lifestyle.
Their services are backed by a panel of reputable underwriters, offering everything from third-party to fully comprehensive plans. What makes them stand out is their investment in digital tools like the MyDevitt platform, which allows riders to manage claims, documents, and renewals online.
The company also has a strong community presence, sponsoring UK biking events and supporting charities like the BikeSafe initiative.
Area of Focus
Strong community heritage and long-term insurer partnerships.
Best Suited For
Daily riders seeking a traditional and dependable insurance partner.
Pricing: Starts from approximately £180/year for a 500cc standard commuter bike with no-claims discount.
- Website: www.devittinsurance.com
- Phone: 0344 225 1349
- Address: North House, St Edwards Way, Romford RM1 3PP
- Email: contactus@devittinsurance.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Had my claim sorted within 48 hours. Efficient and very pleasant customer service.”
2. Bennetts Motorbike Insurance – Where Riders Come First
Bennetts is a familiar name among UK motorcyclists, and for good reason. With a reputation for blending excellent coverage with meaningful rider perks, Bennetts doesn’t just insure your ride. it enhances your lifestyle as a biker.
Through its Bennetts Rewards programme, policyholders can unlock discounts on biking gear, training sessions, and even track days.
Customer satisfaction is central to their offering, with many riders praising the brand’s round-the-clock claims assistance and no-hassle renewals. The insurer also offers optional extras like helmet and leather cover, personal accident protection, and breakdown assistance.
Whether you’re a hobby rider or use your bike every day in London’s hectic traffic, Bennetts builds flexibility into its policies, ensuring you’re covered when it counts most.
Core Strength
Comprehensive plans bundled with exclusive rider benefits.
Ideal For
Riders looking for more than just insurance those who want added value and community.
Pricing: Plans start around £230/year, often inclusive of gear protection and basic rewards access.
- Website: www.bennetts.co.uk
- Phone: 0344 412 2171
- Address: 27 Old Gloucester Street, London WC1N 3AX
Review: ★★★★★
“Bennetts gave me a great deal and a tonne of extras I didn’t expect—brilliant for value.”
3. Sabre Insurance – Solid Cover, Broker-Driven Simplicity
Sabre Insurance is a long-standing UK-based insurer known for underwriting straightforward, reliable policies, primarily distributed through a network of trusted brokers. While the brand may not be as publicly marketed as others on this list, Sabre’s reputation within the insurance industry is respected especially for offering coverage to higher-risk drivers or those who might otherwise struggle to get affordable premiums.
Though it doesn’t directly advertise motorbike insurance to the public, Sabre works behind the scenes with brokers and partners to offer bespoke solutions. These often include specialist policies for unusual vehicles or complex profiles.
The company’s core strengths lie in its risk management expertise, strong financial backing, and no-nonsense policy structures. For riders looking to work with an intermediary to craft a tailored solution, Sabre’s involvement behind the curtain ensures stability and efficiency.
Area of Expertise
Reliable underwriting for complex or high-risk profiles via brokers.
Most Suitable For
Riders seeking tailored coverage through a broker-led experience.
Pricing: Varies depending on broker; typically quoted through intermediaries only.
- Website: www.sabre.co.uk
- Phone: 01306 747276
- Address: Sabre House, 150 South Street, Dorking, Surrey RH4 2YY
- Email: enquiries@sabre.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Got insured through a broker who used Sabre. Smooth process and everything was well explained.”
4. Bikesure – Insurance That Gets You
As part of the Adrian Flux family, Bikesure specialises in motorbike policies that are anything but ordinary. This includes everything from imported Japanese models and scooters to electric bikes and three-wheelers. For Londoners riding unconventional or niche machines, Bikesure is often the only insurer willing to offer tailored quotes.
What makes them stand out is their willingness to accommodate special requests, like insuring delivery bikes used for business or covering highly customised rides that other insurers shy away from. Their expert advisors take time to assess each application, ensuring a policy that matches the rider not just the bike.
Key Advantage
Adaptability for rare, unusual, or business-use bikes.
Tailored For
Urban commuters, scooter owners, and delivery drivers.
Pricing: Entry-level pricing starts from £160/year for mopeds or low-CC bikes with standard use.
- Website: www.bikesure.co.uk
- Phone: 0800 369 8580
- Address: East Winch Hall, East Winch King’s Lynn Norfolk PE32 1HN
- Email: contact-us@bikesure.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“They actually listened to my needs. No other company was willing to cover my imported Yamaha.”
5. Lexham Insurance – Built for City Riders
Lexham has established itself as the go-to insurer for scooters, mopeds, and courier riders. In the heart of a busy city like London, where food delivery and last-mile services are booming, Lexham fills a much-needed gap in the insurance market. Their learner-friendly, flexible policies make them particularly attractive to new riders and gig economy workers.
The company also offers short-term and temporary bike insurance options, ideal for those just testing the waters. Whether you’re on an L plate or working full-time as a courier, Lexham’s customer-first approach and competitive pricing make them hard to ignore.
Primary Skillset
Insurance solutions designed for high-traffic urban mobility.
Geared Towards
Learners, delivery riders, and commuters on smaller bikes.
Pricing: Starting from £155/year for basic third-party-only coverage on 50cc bikes.
- Website: www.lexhaminsurance.co.uk
- Phone: 01379 646 529
- Address: Unit 21, Hopper Way, Diss, Norfolk, IP22 4NG
- Email: enquiries@lexhaminsurance.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Best value I could find for my moped. Hassle-free setup, and they understood courier use.”
6. Carole Nash – Protection with a Passion for Classics
Carole Nash has long been a respected name in the motorcycle insurance industry, especially among riders with a passion for classic or vintage bikes. With over three decades of experience, the company understands that not all motorbikes are used the same way, and certainly not all are replaceable.
Their policies go far beyond standard protection, offering agreed value cover, specialist parts replacement, and even access to an approved repair network that knows how to handle rare or older models.
Carole Nash also offers free DNA+ forensic protection kits with many policies a unique security benefit that helps deter theft and aids in recovery. Riders can expect UK and European breakdown recovery, legal expenses cover, and a dedicated claims team that understands both old-school bikes and modern rides.
Expertise
Long-standing focus on classic, vintage, and enthusiast bikes.
Most Suitable For
Collectors, restorers, and riders of high-value or heritage motorcycles.
Pricing: Starts around £220/year, with custom quote options for classic and multi-bike policies.
- Website: www.carolenash.com
- Phone: 0333 005 3355
- Address: 101 Cathedral Approach Salford M3 7FB
- Email: pressoffice@markerstudy.com
Review: ★★★★★
“My 1975 Norton isn’t easy to cover, but Carole Nash made the process painless and fair.”
7. Principal Insurance – Cover with Character
Principal Insurance is a rising player in the UK motorbike insurance sector, known for offering flexible and affordable policies that meet the unique needs of hobbyists and hardcore riders alike. The company prides itself on a no-nonsense approach, using real advisors to craft policies for real riders. Whether it’s a chopper, streetfighter, sports bike, or cafe racer, Principal works with underwriters who truly understand biker culture.
Their policies are often more inclusive than expected, offering optional breakdown cover, helmet and leather protection, and the ability to insure modified or rare bikes with ease. With strong customer support and a straightforward claims process, Principal has grown quickly into one of the most trusted names for London’s biking scene.
Strength
Flexible underwriting for modified and niche motorcycles.
Best Fit For
Bikers who want control over every aspect of their insurance plan.
Pricing: Approximate starting point is £195/year, with specialist quotes for custom bikes.
- Website: www.principalinsurance.co.uk
- Phone: 0330 024 0135
- Address: Citygate 2, Cross Street, Sale, Manchester, M33 7JR
- Email: info@principalinsurance.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“They let me tweak my policy the way I wanted. Finally, an insurer that gets it.”
8. Swinton Bike Insurance – Traditional Values, Modern Options
Swinton is one of the UK’s oldest insurance brands and brings with it decades of experience and trust. While the company is often associated with car insurance, their motorbike division offers strong options for both new and experienced riders. Their products are backed by a solid reputation, and the brand continues to innovate with digital access, optional extras, and a wide panel of underwriters.
Swinton appeals to riders who want a balance between competitive premiums and reliable service. Policyholders can add extras like European cover, personal accident protection, and breakdown assistance. Its simplicity and clarity in policy language make Swinton a great choice for those who appreciate transparency.
Primary Focus
Long-established reputation and no-fuss insurance processes.
Most Practical For
Commuters or casual riders who value ease and clarity.
Pricing: Typically starts at £175/year for commuter-style bikes, with premium upgrades available.
- Website: www.swinton.co.uk
- Phone: +44 1737 815 032
- Address: Embankment West Tower, 101 Cathedral Approach, Salford M3 7FB
- Email: contactus@swinton.co.uk
Review: ★★★★☆
“Easy to set up and no jargon. I like how straight-up their terms are.”
9. RAC Bike Insurance – Reliability That Rides With You
The RAC has a deep history in vehicle support services and has translated that reliability into its motorbike insurance offerings. While known primarily for breakdown recovery, RAC also provides robust insurance cover, including full UK and EU breakdown assistance, accident recovery, and flexible excess options. It’s a trusted name for those who want dependable cover that extends beyond just financial protection.
Riders insured with RAC also benefit from the company’s huge roadside network and 24/7 support system, which can be a lifesaver in a dense city like London. Though slightly more premium in pricing, the peace of mind and service quality often outweigh the cost for many.
Unique Offering
Extensive roadside assistance and policy add-ons for commuters.
Most Useful For
Riders who prioritise support and emergency response alongside cover.
Pricing: Around £210/year for comprehensive cover including breakdown and accident recovery.
- Website: www.rac.co.uk
- Phone: +44 333 200 0999
- Address: RAC House, Brockhurst Crescent, Walsall WS5 4AW
- Email: customer.service@rac.co.uk
Review: ★★★★★
“Broke down on the North Circular and RAC had me sorted in under an hour. Worth every penny.”
10. Hastings Direct – Simple, Smart, and Straightforward
Hastings Direct might be better known for car insurance, but their motorbike insurance services are gaining popularity fast. With a user-friendly online platform, transparent pricing, and useful add-ons, Hastings has become a favourite among younger and tech-friendly riders.
Their “SmartMiles” approach for car insurance is being gradually mirrored in motorbike policies, providing personalised pricing based on riding behaviour.
The company offers both basic and premium plans, with optional legal cover, helmet and clothing protection, and even access to an app for managing policies on the go. For those who prefer simplicity and digital control over their insurance, Hastings Direct is a highly attractive option.
Distinct Feature
App-based policy control and behaviour-based pricing developments.
Ideal Choice For
Tech-savvy and budget-conscious riders seeking a seamless experience.
Pricing: Competitive rates start around £165/year, depending on bike and usage.
- Website: www.hastingsdirect.com
- Phone: 0333 321 9801
- Address: Conquest House, Collington Avenue, Bexhill-on-Sea TN39 3LW
- Email: bike@hastingsdirect.com
Review: ★★★★☆
“Everything’s online. So easy to adjust or check details without calling.”
What Are the Average Motorbike Insurance Costs in London?
Factors Affecting Premiums
The cost of motorbike insurance in London depends on several variables: rider age, riding history, engine size, and where the bike is kept overnight. London postcodes with higher theft rates or busy traffic zones tend to have increased premiums.
Price Examples Across Different Profiles
| Rider Profile | Bike Type | Insurance Type | Typical Annual Cost |
| Young New Rider (22) | 125cc Scooter | Third-Party Only | £750 – £1,100 |
| Mid-Age Commuter (35) | 500cc Standard | Comprehensive | £350 – £600 |
| Experienced Rider (45) | 1000cc Sport | Comprehensive | £500 – £900 |
Prices vary by insurer, and including add-ons like helmet cover or European travel will increase premiums.
How Can Riders Save on Motorcycle Insurance in the UK?
Maximising No-Claims Bonuses
Insurers reward riders who don’t make claims over consecutive years. A no-claims discount can significantly lower annual premiums some providers offer up to 60% off after five years of claim-free riding.
Security and Storage
Parking your bike in a locked garage or fitting it with a Thatcham-approved tracker reduces the risk of theft, which insurers consider when calculating your premium. Some insurers even offer extra discounts for smart security devices.
Adjusting Excess and Limiting Mileage
Choosing a higher voluntary excess (the amount you pay towards a claim) often lowers your premium. If you ride occasionally, you may also qualify for a low mileage policy perfect for weekend bikers or seasonal riders.
Are There Specialised Insurance Options for Classic or Sports Bikes?
Cover for Classic Motorcycles
Classic bike policies cater to older bikes that are typically used less frequently and maintained with care. These policies may offer agreed-value cover, discounted premiums, and protection for rare spare parts ideal for collectors and vintage enthusiasts.
Insurance for High-Performance Bikes
Riders with sports or performance motorcycles often face higher premiums due to speed and theft risks. However, specialised insurers offer track-day coverage, flexible excess levels, and rewards for advanced riding courses, all of which can improve affordability and coverage quality.
How to Choose the Best Motorbike Insurance Company in London?
Evaluating Your Needs and Riding Habits
Choosing the right insurer starts with understanding how you ride. Daily commuters may need comprehensive coverage, while seasonal or casual riders could benefit from flexible, lower-cost policies. Riders of valuable or modified bikes should look for specialist providers with experience in niche coverage.
Balancing Cost with Quality
While it’s tempting to choose the cheapest policy available, always consider what you’re giving up. Cheaper policies may lack legal cover, roadside recovery, or customer support. Reading real reviews and understanding what’s included helps avoid nasty surprises down the line.
What’s the Future of Motorbike Insurance in London?
Technology and Innovation in Rider Policies
As London transitions toward sustainability, insurers are adapting by offering pay-per-mile plans, telematics-based discounts, and policies tailored for electric motorbikes. Riders using eco-friendly or hybrid bikes may qualify for exclusive incentives. On-demand insurance is also becoming more common, allowing riders to activate coverage only when needed.
Preparing for Policy Changes
With regulations like the ULEZ expanding, insurers are starting to reflect environmental compliance in their risk assessments. Riders should watch for changing requirements and evolving product offerings from forward-thinking insurance companies.
Conclusion
Choosing the right motorbike insurance company in London isn’t just about finding the cheapest premium it’s about securing reliable, flexible cover that suits your lifestyle and bike type. Whether you ride a vintage classic, a courier scooter, or a high-performance machine, there’s an insurer on this list that understands your needs.
From long-established names like Devitt and Carole Nash to modern, tech-forward options like Hastings Direct, London riders have access to a wide variety of trusted providers. Take your time to compare features, consider your riding habits, and choose a policy that offers more than just legal protection—it should give you confidence every time you hit the road.
FAQs About Motorbike Insurance Companies in London
What documents are needed for motorbike insurance in the UK?
You’ll typically need your driving licence, proof of address, bike ownership documents, and an MOT certificate if applicable.
Can I insure multiple bikes under one policy?
Yes, insurers like MCE and Devitt offer multi-bike policies that are more affordable than individual plans.
What’s the difference between third-party and comprehensive insurance?
Third-party insurance covers damage to others, while comprehensive also protects your bike and gear.
Do insurers offer coverage for motorcycle accessories?
Most do, but it’s often optional. Coverage can include helmets, clothing, and custom parts.
Are electric motorcycles insured differently?
Yes, some insurers offer special policies that include battery protection and electric-specific breakdown cover.
How can young riders get affordable insurance in London?
Riders under 25 can save by taking advanced riding courses, choosing smaller bikes, or opting for telematics plans.
Can I cancel my motorbike insurance mid-term without fees?
You can, but expect administration or cancellation charges. Always check your policy first.