Compare the Cost of Scooter Insurance based on Engine Size (50cc vs. 125cc vs. 250cc)

When my folks bought our family home in 1988, one of the unique features that came with it was a garage pit. My stepfather and I spent many nights there, working on everything from muffler replacements to oil changes.

I loved taking my scooter into that pit, especially during winter. With a space heater in tow, I could work on mods throughout the season without getting too uncomfortable.

After turning 16 and getting pulled over for speeding, I realized that swapping an engine in a scooter without telling anyone wasn’t the best idea. Not only did that incident affect my insurance costs, but it also landed me a ticket for illegal modification.

What to Expect for Scooter Insurance Costs

Insurers treat scooters differently because some are closer to mopeds by design, while others ride like a motorcycle. That’s why there is such a variation in cost based on the engine size.

• A 50cc scooter averages $100 to $300 annually to insure, although some riders might see quotes slightly higher or lower than that range.
• With a 125cc engine, expect scooter insurance rates between $200 to $500 per year. You can drive this cost down by qualifying for different discounts.
• A 250cc engine puts a scooter closer to a motorcycle, so rates start around $300 and top out at around $800 annually.

We’ve compiled a list of state-by-state annual cost here.

Some state-based variations could be present since laws regarding highway use differ throughout the United States. If you can drive your scooter on a high-speed road, you can expect to pay more monthly or yearly for your premium.

Why Does Engine Size Matter for Scooter Insurance?

Scooters with larger engine sizes tend to be more powerful and can reach higher speeds. That adds risk to the riding experience since it can be harder to control the vehicle, or it causes more damage during an accident.

A scooter with a larger engine size is also more expensive to repair or replace. That means an insurer might charge a higher premium to cover the increased costs in this category.

Does the Top Speed Matter for Scooter Insurance?

Insurance companies consider the maximum speed a scooter can reach when determining the insurance cost. If you can travel at higher speeds, you’re creating more risk factors to manage.

Another element in this category involves your intended use of the scooter. Using it as a commuter could be considered less risky than racing or taking off-road trails. Some insurers might see those risk factors in reverse.

That’s why it is essential to shop around for scooter insurance quotes.

What If I Change My Scooter’s Engine?

If you change your scooter’s engine, it can potentially affect the cost of your insurance. Any modifications should be immediately communicated to your insurer.

Some modifications increase the risk of accidents or damages. Your insurer might charge you a higher premium to cover these factors.

It is essential to note that some modifications require pre-approval before being allowed to proceed. Illegal mods can invalidate your scooter insurance policy.

Do Any Other Factors Play a Role in My Scooter Insurance Quote?

Several factors are considered by insurers when determining how much to charge for scooter insurance. Outside of the engine size, these four elements contribute the most to the quote you receive.

• Age. Insurance rates are typically lower for riders with at least three years of experience on a two-wheeled vehicle and are at least 25 years old.
• Location. Each state has specific minimums to manage liability coverage. Places where accidents or theft reports are higher typically come with higher monthly premiums than those without additional risk factors.
• Driving History. Most riders qualify for better rates when they haven’t had accidents or traffic violations in the past 36 months.
• Mileage. Riding a scooter each day creates a more expensive policy to manage. If you only drive it occasionally or seasonally, the quote you receive will likely be cheaper.

The amount of coverage you decide to have for your scooter insurance also affects your total cost. Most insurers offer carried contents, medical payments, and roadside assistance as policy add-ons.

Be proactive about informing your insurer about any changes to this information. Your costs are based on the risks associated with each data point. When you can lower them, you’ll likely be closer to the bottom end of the pricing averages.