I bought a 150cc Vespa to deliver food faster in the city, thinking it was just a “scooter.” I hit a pedestrian three weeks later. My homeowners insurance denied it because the engine was too big, and I had no auto insurance because I didn’t think I needed it. Now I’m being sued for $45,000, all because of 100 extra cubic centimeters.
Key Takeaways
- The 50cc Threshold: In many states, anything under 50cc is a “moped” (sometimes covered by specialized home/renters riders), but anything over 50cc is a “motorcycle” requiring full auto insurance.
- Business Use Voids Everything: Even if your moped is under 50cc, standard personal liability policies exclude “business pursuits.”
- Registration = Insurance: If your state requires a license plate for the scooter, you legally need liability insurance.
- Theft is the Real Risk: Delivery scooters are stolen constantly. Without a specific motorcycle policy, you have $0 coverage for theft.
The “Why”: The Motor Definition
Insurance companies love definitions.
- Under 50cc / <30mph: Often classified as a “motorized bicycle.” Sometimes covered by Renters Insurance (if not used for business).
- Over 50cc: Legally a motorcycle. It requires a Class M license and a standalone Motorcycle Insurance policy.
The trap is that many drivers buy 150cc scooters to keep up with traffic but try to fly under the radar without insurance. If you crash, the police report will list the VIN and model. The insurance adjuster will Google the specs. If it says “149cc,” and you have no motorcycle policy, you are uninsured.
[IMAGE: Infographic comparing 49cc Moped vs 150cc Scooter legal requirements]
The Investigation: Insuring the Hustle
I ran quotes for a generic 50cc Honda Ruckus and a 150cc Vespa to see the difference.
1. Geico Motorcycle
- 50cc: Cheap (~$75/year).
- 150cc: More expensive (~$200/year).
- Business Use: They asked, “Do you use this for delivery?” When I said yes, they referred me to a commercial line.
- Verdict: You cannot lie about this. Personal motorcycle policies deny business claims just like car policies do.
2. V00M / Specialized Bike Insurers
- The Offer: Pay-per-mile or specialized delivery insurance for scooters.
- Verdict: This is the future. They understand the gig. Coverage is verified for DoorDash/UberEats.
3. Renters Insurance (Lemonade/State Farm)
- The Check: I asked if my renters policy covered liability on a 49cc moped delivering food.
- The Answer: Hard No. The “Business Use” exclusion applies to all property.
Comparison Table: 50cc vs 150cc
| Feature | 49cc (Moped) | 150cc (Scooter) |
| License Plate? | Varies (Often No) | YES |
| Insurance Required? | Varies | YES |
| Personal Policy Cost | Low | Medium |
| Commercial Policy Cost | ~$300/yr | ~$600/yr |
| Risk of being sued | High | High |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check Your VIN: Google your scooter’s VIN. Verify the engine displacement.
- Get Commercial Motorcycle Insurance: Call Progressive or a specialist like V00M. Tell them: “I use a scooter for food delivery.” The premium is often tax-deductible and surprisingly low compared to a car.
- Lock It Up: Insurance won’t cover theft if you didn’t lock it. Buy a Kryptonite chain.
FAQ
Do I need a motorcycle license for a 49cc scooter?
In most states, no, a standard driver’s license works. But insurance rules are separate from DMV rules.
Does DoorDash provide insurance for scooters?
Only liability (damage to others) while on an active delivery. They do not cover damage to your scooter or theft.