Motorbikes on Finance: A UK Guide to Buying Used

You’ve found the bike. You’ve pictured yourself riding it, and then you see the price tag. It’s a familiar moment for UK riders, and it’s why motorbikes on finance have become one of the most popular ways to get on the road. Instead of paying everything upfront, you spread the cost over manageable monthly payments.

This guide explains how finance works, what a typical deal costs, and how to buy used motorbike stock without nasty surprises. We’ll use real figures published by BigMoto, a UK retailer of new and used bikes, as a worked example.

How Do Motorbikes on Finance Work?

The most common route is Hire Purchase (HP). You pay a deposit if you wish, borrow the rest, and repay it in fixed monthly instalments over an agreed term. With HP you typically become the owner once the final payment is made.

Three terms decide what you’ll pay:

• Deposit: the upfront amount. A bigger deposit usually means a smaller loan and lower monthly payments.
• Term: how many months you repay over. A longer term lowers the monthly cost but increases the total interest.
• APR: the annual cost of borrowing. The lower it is, the less you pay overall.

A real-world example

BigMoto publishes this representative example for Hire Purchase:

Detail	Figure
Amount borrowed	£4,500
Term	48 months
Deposit	£0
Representative APR	19.9% (fixed)
Monthly payment	£132.86
Total cost of credit	£1,877.28
Total amount payable	£6,377.28

BigMoto also advertises finance rates from 12.9% APR, but the rate you’re offered depends on your circumstances and is subject to status and affordability. The example is not a personal quote.

The takeaway is to look at the total amount payable, not just the monthly figure. A low monthly payment can hide a long term and a higher overall cost.

Why Choose Used Motorbikes on Finance?

A used bike has usually already taken its biggest drop in value, and the lower price means a smaller loan. That can mean lower monthly payments, a shorter term, or a better bike for the same budget.

It also widens your choice. Used stock covers everything from 125cc commuters to roadsters, tourers and adventure bikes. If you plan to buy used motorbike stock online, use the budget filters. BigMoto lets you search by monthly budget, such as up to £150 or up to £250 a month, so you start from what you can comfortably afford rather than the sticker price.

How to Buy a Used Motorbike: A 6-Point Checklist

Finance makes the purchase easier, but you still need to buy well.

1. Set a realistic monthly budget. Include insurance, servicing, riding gear and fuel, not just the finance payment.
2. Check your licence. A CBT covers 125cc machines, but larger bikes need the right licence category. Check before you fall in love with a 600.
3. Check the bike’s history. Look at service records, MOT history and number of previous owners, and ask whether the bike has been inspected.
4. Ask about warranty. BigMoto says every bike is thoroughly checked and comes with a warranty that can be extended to 24 months.
5. Know your return rights. BigMoto offers a 14-day return on motorbikes bought through a distance sale, which is useful when buying online.
6. Compare total cost, not just the monthly payment. Ask for the full figures before you sign.

Can You Get Motorbikes on Finance with Poor Credit?

Often, yes, though it depends on the lender and your circumstances. BigMoto works with a network of UK lenders and has a dedicated poor credit finance page for riders with a less-than-perfect history.

Be realistic, though. Approval is never guaranteed, and a weaker credit history can mean a higher APR. That’s why it pays to:

• Check what’s on your credit file before applying.
• Choose a bike you can afford even if your circumstances change.
• Ask how credit checks are carried out and what the full cost will be before agreeing.

If you’re considering borrowing, read all the terms carefully, and remember this guide is general information, not financial advice.

Using Part Exchange to Lower the Cost

If you already own a bike, part exchange can reduce what you need to borrow. BigMoto’s part-exchange service values your current bike, and if you accept, that value goes toward any bike in stock. If you finance the rest, a smaller loan can mean lower monthly payments.

Prefer to sell outright? BigMoto also buys bikes, with valuations based on make, model, age and condition.

Buying Online: What to Expect

Buying online means the bike has to come to you. BigMoto offers nationwide delivery across England, Scotland and Wales, and says it typically has over 500 bikes in stock. It also has locations in East Anglia, Cheshire and the West Midlands if you’d rather talk to someone in person.

Whoever you buy from, check reviews (BigMoto links to its Trustpilot page), confirm what the inspection covers, and make sure delivery and return terms are clear before you commit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get motorbikes on finance with no deposit?

Sometimes. BigMoto’s representative example assumes a £0 deposit. Approval is always subject to status and affordability, and a deposit can reduce your monthly payment and total interest.

Should I buy used motorbike stock or go new?

It depends on your budget and priorities. Used bikes generally cost less and have already lost their steepest depreciation. New bikes offer the latest models and a full manufacturer warranty. Compare the total cost of both before deciding.

What credit score do I need for motorbike finance?

There’s no single number. Lenders assess your credit history, income and affordability. If your credit is poor, a specialist broker with a panel of lenders may give you more options.

Can I part-exchange my bike when I use finance?

Yes. The value of your old bike can go toward the new one, which reduces the amount you need to borrow.

Final Thoughts

Motorbikes on finance make riding more accessible, but the best deals come from planning: set a sensible monthly budget, compare total costs, and check the bike carefully. If you’re ready to buy used motorbike stock, start by browsing the used bikes and checking the finance options, or call the BigMoto team on 01493 547 444 for advice.

Finance is subject to status, terms and conditions apply, UK residents only, 18s or over. Bigmoto Ltd is an appointed representative of Scott Hardy Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. BigMoto acts as a credit broker, not a lender, and works with a panel of lenders. Representative example and rates are as published by BigMoto and may change.