Bad credit motorbike finance

We've specialised in bad credit motorcycle financing for over 20 years. We're here to help you if you have a thin credit file or bad credit history, or if you've struggled for approval from other lenders. 

If any of that sounds familiar, our bad credit motorbike loans could be the solution you're looking for. They're designed for people who may have faced financial setbacks or struggled with managing their credit in the past. We want to offer you a realistic route to loan that will help you pay for the bike you need - and it's something we have plenty of experience in, having provided auto finance to more than 300,000 people. 

All of our loans are on a Hire Purchase agreement. Here's a simple guide to the way it works:

1. You pay a deposit on the bike you want and we lend you the rest. 
2. Through weekly or monthly instalments, you repay the loan. This is done over a pre-agreed fixed period, usually between 18 and 61 months. 
3. You are charged interest on your repayments so, at the end of the agreement, you'll have paid back more than you initially borrowed. 
4. Once your loan is repaid in full, the bike is yours. 

Just so you know... depending on the cost of your bike and your credit limit, you may not have to make a down payment. 

We use Experian, one of the UK's top credit reference agencies, to run our credit checks. This helps us to understand your credit history, which is one of several factors we take into consideration when making a decision on your approval for vehicle finance.

• You've never taken out a substantial loan or credit agreement, or have always paid in cash, meaning you have little or no credit history;
• You've shared credit or finance agreements with another person who has/had credit issues, and now your credit file is associated with theirs;
• You've made bad financial decisions in the past, i.e. took out large credit agreements with large repayments that you couldn't afford or pay on time;
• You've previously been declined by other finance lenders - this is common amongst self-employed applicants because it can be more difficult to prove your income;
• You have a build-up of missed payments across different accounts which may have led to defaults or CCJs - these can remain on your credit file for up to six years.

Take a look at our guide on bad credit myths to discover more about what poor credit actually means.

Let's hear from an expert on this one. Craig is our Head of Underwriting; here's what he has to say: 

"Applying for motorbike finance can affect your credit score, but the impact depends on how and where you apply. We'll run a soft credit check when you first apply, which shouldn't make any difference to your file. If you go ahead with your application, our hard check may leave a footprint. 

"However, it's key to remember that responsible borrowing - for example, making repayments on time - can actually help build your credit score. We take a fair and flexible approach, focusing on what's affordable for you rather than just your credit history." 

How to apply for motorbike finance with bad credit

1. Get a quote
   
   Fill out our online quote form to get an instant decision on your eligibility and see how much your monthly repayments would be.
   
   
2. Choose your repayments
   

   
   If you're happy to move forward with your quote, all you need to do is choose a repayment option and then we’ll send you a text message and/or email with the next steps.

   Just so you know... the terms given in your quote are just examples and can be changed, you’ll just need to proceed your quote first.
   
   

3. Sign and ride away
   

   
   Once you've chosen the motorbike you want to buy, we'll send you the legal documentation for the proposed finance agreement - you'll need to take some time to read through it, so you understand and are happy with what you're agreeing to.

   If you're happy to proceed, you can go ahead and sign the paperwork. By the way... before we send over the legal documentation, you'll need to send over proof of driving licence and proof of income, i.e. bank statements and/or payslips.
   
   We'll pay the dealership directly (funds are usually sent within 15 minutes*) and then you can ride away on your new motorbike!
   *97% of the time

We’re authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). We're committed to treating customers fairly and giving clear, honest information so you can trust us to put your best interests first every step of the way!

The exact answer will depend on the value of your bike, the size of your deposit, and the length of your loan term. To get an idea of the overall cost, use our motorbike finance calculator. It's free and has no impact on your credit score, and there's no obligation to apply. 

Accessible financing

Our bad credit motorbike loans are designed to be a realistic option for a wider range of customers. We understand the unique challenges you face if you have bad credit and we're here to offer solutions that suit you.

Ownership

A Hire Purchase agreement means that, once your loan is paid off, you own the bike. That counts as a financial asset in your name, one that could help you with down payments on future purchases.

Chance to improve your credit

If you're approved for motorbike finance with bad credit, you can actively work towards improving your score. Paying your loan instalments in full and on time shows to credit agencies and other lenders that you can borrow responsibly.

Rebuilding financial confidence

Being approved can instil confidence, especially if you've faced financial setbacks in the past. It helps you to feel empowered and this renewed confidence can positively impact other aspects of your financial life.

Flexible terms and conditions

These may include lower deposit requirements, extended loan terms and manageable interest rates. Our aim is to provide customers with greater financial flexibility, and a bad credit motorbike loan can do that.

Why choose First Response Finance for motorbike finance on bad credit?

Ours is a personalised approach, always tailored to your unique situation. It works for us and, more importantly, it works for our customers. Here's why you can rely on us:

• More than 300,000 customers approved for motor finance
• We're rated 4.9/5 by customers on Review Centre
• We were named 'Best Car Finance Provider' at the Consumer Credit Awards 2025
• Winners of Feefo's Platinum Trusted Service Award, six times in the last seven years.

We're also SAF Approved by the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA), which means that all relevant staff have passed the Specialist Automotive Finance (SAF) Expert test. This ensures our team members have all the relevant knowledge to advise you on available finance products and help find the right one for you!

Can I get motorbike finance with a bad credit history?

Yes - we'll always try our best to help! When we review your application, we look at more than just your credit history. If yours is poor, if you don't have a track record of borrowing, or if you've been turned down by other lenders, we may still be able to offer you a route to motorbike finance. 

Just so you know... we'll never approve your loan if we believe that it'll out you in more financial difficulty. 

Can I get a motorbike loan with an CCJ or IVA?

Yes, we can provide motorbike finance to customers who have defaults and/or county court judgments (CCJs).

If you have an individual voluntary agreement (IVA), you'll need to get the express permission of your Insolvency Practitioner before you apply. 

How much can I apply for?

We offer bad credit motorbike loans of between £2,000 and £15,000. 

Are there any extra fees I need to pay?

No. The cost of your bad credit motorcycle finance is made up of your deposit and your loan repayments, which include interest. There are no hidden fees. 

Is VAT covered by the finance?

No, you will have to pay for the VAT upfront as part of your deposit. 

How long do I have to repay the loan?

We offer bad credit financing for motorcycles over terms of 18-61 months. 

Can I repay early?

Yes! In fact, if you're in a position to do so, we recommend it. It will mean you pay back less in interest, earning you a saving. With us, there are no early repayment charges to worry about. 

Can I get a bike on finance with bad credit without a deposit?

This could be an option for you. It will all depend on the value of the bike and your credit limit. 

Can I part-exchange my old bike?

Yes, you may be able to use your old bike as a down payment for your new finance agreement. You'll need to speak to the dealership you're buying from to see if they're happy to accept that as part of the arrangement. 

What make and model of motorbike can I get with bad credit motorcycle finance?

Pretty much any! Whether you're looking to buy a scooter or classic ride, we can provide bad credit financing on a variety of motorcycle brands such as Honda, Yamaha, and Kawasaki - and even for electric motorbikes!

Just so you know... we can only provide finance for road-legal motorbikes.

What licence do I need to be eligible for bad credit motorbike finance?

You'll need to hold one of the following driving licences: CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) A1, A2, or Full A.

To find out which motorcycle you're able to ride based on your driving licence, use the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency’s motorbike requirements flowchart.

What if I'm unsure which bike to choose?

Don't worry, our Deal Making team can help with that! You can contact them via:

• Phone on 0141 848 8933
• Email at dealmaking@frfl.co.uk
• WhatsApp

Where can I buy my bike from?

We only offer bad credit motorcycle finance on bikes bought from FCA authorised dealerships, meaning we cannot finance you if you're looking to buy from a private seller. 

How do I get a quote for bad credit motorbike finance?

All you have to do is fill out our online form. It's free and fast and there's no commitment to apply! But you must provide us with honest and accurate information sot hat we can give you an accurate quote. 

For full details about the collection and potential uses of your personal details, check out our Privacy Policy.

How long does it take to get a bad credit motorbike loan?

This can vary because every application is different. On average, it typically takes a few days to go from applying to getting the keys to your new bike. If you've picked out the ride you like though, you could get a quote, submit your paperwork and sign your agreement all in one day! 

This page was last reviewed in April 2026. 

First Response Finance is a responsible vehicle finance lender, and all decisions are made in the best interests of the customer; based on credit scores, status, and income at the time of application. We'll never approve an application if we believe you might struggle with repayments.

Get independent advice on money, finance products, debt management and budgeting through Citizens Advice and MoneyHelper.