Everything You Need to Know About Moped Insurance Prices and Quotes
How Much Does Moped Insurance Cost? (Quick Answer)
moped insurance price is one of the most common questions new riders have — and the good news is that it's generally very affordable compared to other vehicles.
Here's a quick snapshot of typical costs:
| Coverage Type | Average Annual Cost | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum liability (50cc) | $100 – $250 | $10 – $12 |
| Minimum liability (125cc) | $168 – $192 | $14 – $16 |
| Minimum liability (overall) | $150 – $312 | $12.50 – $26 |
| Full coverage | $720 – $1,980 | $60 – $165 |
Note: Rates vary based on your age, location, driving record, engine size, and the insurer you choose. Pennsylvania riders may see different rates depending on local regulations.
These are ballpark figures. Your actual quote could be lower — especially if you have a clean record, ride a smaller engine, or qualify for discounts.
Mopeds are practical, fuel-efficient, and fun to ride. But like any vehicle on public roads, they carry real risks — for you, other drivers, and property. That's why most U.S. states require at least some form of liability coverage for mopeds, particularly those with engines over 50cc. Even where it's not legally required, going uninsured means you absorb the full cost of an accident out of pocket.
Whether you're commuting through Philadelphia or cruising through a Pennsylvania suburb, having the right coverage protects your wallet when things go wrong.
I'm Shawn Beihl, and with over 15 years of experience in specialty insurance — including property, casualty, and risk management — I've helped countless riders find the right moped insurance price without overpaying for coverage they don't need. In the sections below, we'll break down exactly what drives your premium and how to get the best deal.
Average Moped Insurance Price by Coverage Level
When we talk about the moped insurance price, the biggest "lever" you can pull is the level of coverage you choose. Just like with a car, you have the choice between doing the bare minimum required by law or wrapping your ride in a "security blanket" of full protection.
Liability-Only Coverage
This is the most affordable way to get on the road. Liability insurance doesn't pay for your moped if you crash it; instead, it pays for the other person’s repairs or medical bills if you are at fault. For a standard 50cc moped, this can cost as little as $75 to $100 per year. It's the "budget-friendly" choice for riders who own an older moped that might not be worth much to replace.
Comprehensive and Collision
If you want "Full Coverage," you’re adding Comprehensive and Collision to your liability policy.
- Collision covers damage to your moped if you hit another vehicle or an object (like a fence).
- Comprehensive protects you against "acts of nature" or bad luck—think theft, fire, vandalism, or a tree limb falling on your bike while it's parked in Newtown.
Because mopeds are easy to steal, comprehensive coverage is highly recommended. However, it does drive the moped insurance price up, often ranging from $250 to $600 annually for a 50cc model, and potentially more for high-end brands.
Medical Payments and Uninsured Motorist
These are the "safety net" options. Medical payments (MedPay) help cover your own ER bills regardless of who caused the accident. Uninsured Motorist coverage is vital in urban areas where many drivers might be skirting the law; if they hit you and don't have insurance, your policy steps in to cover the gap.
| Coverage Tier | Annual Price Range | Best For... |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Liability | $100 – $312 | Budget riders with low-value bikes. |
| Standard (Liab + Comp) | $250 – $500 | Riders in urban areas concerned about theft. |
| Full Coverage | $720 – $1,980 | New, expensive mopeds or daily commuters. |
Get a quote to see how much you can save
Impact of Engine Displacement on Moped Insurance Price
Size matters—at least when it comes to engines. In two wheels, "cc" stands for cubic centimeters, and it tells the insurance company how much power (and potential for speed) your moped has.
- 49cc - 50cc: These are the "true" mopeds. They usually top out at about 30 mph. Because they can't go on highways and generally cause less damage in an accident, they are the cheapest to insure. You might pay just $10 to $12 a month for basic coverage.
- 125cc: This is where you move into "scooter" territory. With top speeds of 60-70 mph, these bikes are riskier. Expect the moped insurance price to jump to $14–$16 per month for minimum coverage.
- 150cc and Up: Once you hit 150cc, you're essentially riding a small motorcycle. These require a motorcycle license in Pennsylvania and carry higher premiums, often starting at $20 a month for the basics and climbing significantly for full coverage.
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation FAQs provide a wealth of information on how these different engine sizes affect the way you should handle your bike, which indirectly influences your risk profile.
Electric vs. Gas-Powered Moped Insurance Price
The rise of electric mopeds has introduced a new variable. While they are often quieter and more eco-friendly, their insurance math is a bit different.
Electric Mopeds: These can sometimes have slightly higher premiums. Why? The batteries. A high-quality lithium-ion battery can cost a significant portion of the bike's total value. If the bike is involved in a collision, even a minor one, damage to the battery housing can lead to a total loss. However, many insurers offer competitive rates because electric riders often have lower annual mileage.
Gas-Powered Mopeds: These are the "old reliable" of the industry. Parts are plentiful and mechanics know how to fix them, which keeps repair costs (and thus premiums) stable. A kick-start 50cc gas moped remains one of the cheapest vehicles on the planet to insure.
For a deeper dive into how these types differ, check out our Scooter and Moped Insurance Guide.
Key Factors That Determine Your Premium
When you call us for a quote, we aren't just looking at the bike; we’re looking at the person in the helmet. Here are the personal factors that move the needle on your moped insurance price:
- Rider Age: Statistics show that younger riders (under 25) are more likely to take risks or have accidents. A 16-year-old might pay nearly double what a 40-year-old pays for the exact same moped.
- Driving Record: Have a few speeding tickets in your car? Unfortunately, those follow you to your moped policy. A clean record is the fastest way to lower your rate.
- Experience Level: If you’ve held a motorcycle license for ten years, you're viewed as a "pro." If you just got your permit yesterday, you're a "rookie," and your price will reflect that initial risk.
- Location: Riding in a quiet rural area is statistically safer than weaving through city traffic. Furthermore, urban areas have higher theft rates. If you live in a high-density part of Pennsylvania, your comprehensive insurance will likely be higher.
- Credit Score: In many states, including Pennsylvania, insurance companies use credit-based insurance scores to help predict risk. A higher score often leads to a lower moped insurance price.
- Annual Mileage: If you only ride your moped to the grocery store once a week, you're on the road less than a daily commuter. Lower mileage equals lower risk.
Understanding Coverage Options and State Requirements
Every state has its own "rulebook" for mopeds. In Pennsylvania, the laws are quite specific.
Pennsylvania State Laws: In the Keystone State, a moped is defined as a motor-driven cycle with an engine not exceeding 50cc, producing no more than 2 brake horsepower, and having an automatic transmission. If your bike meets these criteria, you don't need a motorcycle license, but you do need to register the vehicle and carry liability insurance.
Minimum Requirements: The state-mandated minimums are designed to protect others. You’ll typically need:
- Bodily Injury Liability: Covers medical expenses for others if you cause an accident.
- Property Damage Liability: Covers repairs to someone else's car or property.
Optional (But Recommended) Protections:
- Theft and Vandalism: Because mopeds can often be lifted into the back of a truck by two people, theft protection is a must-have for peace of mind.
- Accessories Coverage: If you've added a custom top box, high-end mirrors, or performance parts, standard insurance might not cover them. You can add specific coverage for these items.
If you're confused about the fine print, our Help Center for Insurance Questions can help clarify the legal jargon.
Strategies to Lower Your Moped Insurance Costs
You shouldn't have to pay a penny more than necessary for your coverage. Here are our favorite "hacks" to slash your moped insurance price:
- Safety Course Discounts: Completing a recognized safety course (like those offered by the MSF) can often net you a 5% to 10% discount. It proves to the insurer that you take safety seriously.
- Policy Bundling: This is the "big one." If you already have your car or home insured with us, adding a moped is usually very cheap. Multi-policy discounts are among the most significant savings available.
- Multi-Vehicle Savings: If you have two mopeds or a moped and a motorcycle, insure them on the same policy to trigger a discount.
- Higher Deductibles: If you're willing to pay $500 out of pocket instead of $100 if you have a claim, your monthly premium will drop significantly. Just make sure you actually have that $500 saved up!
- Pay-in-Full: Most companies charge a small installment fee for monthly billing. If you pay for the whole year upfront, you can save 5% to 10% instantly.
- Anti-Theft Devices: Installing a GPS tracker or a high-quality alarm can sometimes lower your comprehensive premium. At the very least, it keeps your ride where you left it!
Explore more ways to save on our Services Content page.
Frequently Asked Questions about Moped Insurance
Is moped insurance cheaper than motorcycle insurance?
Yes, in almost every case. Because mopeds have smaller engines (usually 50cc) and lower top speeds, they are considered lower risk than a 1000cc sportbike or a heavy cruiser. The moped insurance price for minimum coverage can be as low as $75–$100 a year, whereas motorcycle insurance often starts closer to $300–$500 for similar levels of protection.
Does insurance cover a stolen moped?
Only if you have Comprehensive Coverage. Liability-only policies do not cover theft. If your moped is stolen and you have comprehensive insurance, the company will pay you the actual cash value (market value) of the bike, minus your deductible. Using anti-theft devices like disc locks or ground anchors is always a smart move to prevent the claim in the first place.
Do I need insurance for a 50cc moped in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Pennsylvania law requires all motor vehicles—including 50cc mopeds—to be registered and insured with at least the state-minimum liability limits. While you might not need a special motorcycle license for a 50cc moped (a standard Class C driver's license is usually enough), the financial responsibility laws still apply.
Conclusion
Finding the right moped insurance price doesn't have to be a headache. At Newtown Insurance, we specialize in helping Pennsylvania riders get the tailored protection they need without the "big city" price tag. Whether you're a student looking for a cheap way to get to class or a weekend enthusiast enjoying the backroads of Bucks County, we’re here to help.
We believe in transparent pricing and customer-first support. We'll help you navigate the differences between liability and full coverage, find every discount you're eligible for, and ensure you're fully compliant with Pennsylvania law.
Don't leave your financial security to chance. Protect your ride today with a quote from your local experts at Newtown Insurance. Safe riding!