A poor credit history doesn’t always rule out motorbike finance, but it narrows your options and usually means higher rates. Because bikes are often seen as leisure purchases, some lenders look especially closely at affordability. This guide explains what lenders check and how to improve your chances.
In short
Some lenders offer motorbike finance to people with poor credit, but approval isn’t certain and rates are usually higher. Check your credit reports, save a deposit, choose an affordable bike and use soft-search eligibility checks before applying.
Can you get motorbike finance with bad credit?
Possibly. Lenders that consider poor credit focus on whether you can afford the payments now, as well as your history. Your chances depend on how recent and serious any problems were, your income and outgoings, and the size of your deposit. Treat any company claiming everyone will be approved with caution.
What lenders look at
- Your credit file: missed payments, defaults, CCJs or insolvency, and how recent they are
- Affordability: your income compared with your spending and existing debts
- The bike: its price, age and how easy it would be to resell
- Your deposit: a bigger deposit reduces the lender’s risk
- Whether the bike is your main transport: some lenders weigh up whether it’s for commuting or leisure
How much does it cost?
Higher APRs add up even on smaller loans. See the worked examples in our bad credit car finance guide to see how the rate changes the total amount payable. Don’t forget insurance, kit and running costs on top.
How to improve your chances
- Check all three credit reports and correct any errors.
- Register on the electoral roll at your current address.
- Save a deposit, or part-exchange your current bike.
- Choose a cheaper bike. Borrowing less is easier to approve and to repay.
- Use soft-search eligibility checks before making full applications.
- Consider HP over PCP if a lender is more comfortable with it, as there’s no large final payment.
Alternatives to consider
- A credit union loan, with interest rates capped by law. Search on Find Your Credit Union.
- A cheaper used bike bought outright.
- Rebuilding your credit first, if the bike can wait.
Our guides to car finance with an IVA, on Universal Credit and on benefits explain how lenders view those circumstances. The same principles apply to motorbikes.
Bad credit motorbike finance FAQs
Can I get motorbike finance with no credit history?
It can be harder, as lenders have little to go on. Being on the electoral roll, having a steady income and paying a deposit can help.
Is PCP or HP easier to get with bad credit?
It depends on the lender. Some are more comfortable with HP because there’s no large final payment, but each lender sets its own rules.
Will being declined hurt my credit score?
Being declined isn’t recorded, but the hard search from a full application is. Use soft-search eligibility checks first.