The cost of owning a motorcycle in Australia
Are you dreaming of a shiny new motorbike? Or perhaps you’re looking for an affordable mode of getting from A to B? Either way, motorcycling is a popular choice, and these days, we’re always looking for ways to save.
We’ve rounded up an idea of what it costs to own and run a bike in Australia, to help you weigh up if riding is a viable option for you.
Upfront cost
No doubt, the largest upfront cost is likely to be buying the bike itself. Motorcycle retail prices in Australia vary widely.
For a learner-approved (LAMS) bike with an engine capacity of up to 600cc, new models typically range from $3,000 to $15,500.1
Mid-range bikes could cost from around $9,000 to $18,000.2
And if you’re looking at touring or high-performance bikes, you could pay $18,000 to well over $40,000.3
Obviously, second-hand models are a more affordable option and are widely available through dedicated bike sale sites.
In 2025, Australia’s top selling brands were Yamaha, Honda and Kawasaki.4
Protective gear
Before you hit the road, you’ll need a helmet and protective clothing. While prices can vary depending on brands and features, it’s worth considering a full set of gear to give you maximum protect you on the road.
Here’s what riders typically buy:
- Helmet – full-face helmets usually cost more than open-face helmets
- Jacket with padded back, shoulders, and elbows
- Gloves with padding
- Riding pants – ideally with protective padding
- Boots that cover your ankles
A practical way to shop is to look for gear that’s made specifically for motorcycling and designed to protect you from impact and abrasion.
If you’re looking for motorcycle gear for women, you’ll be pleased to know there are plenty of stylish options available – complete with safety features.
Licencing fees
Licence costs vary by state and territory, and can include a mix of:
- Learner’s permit fees
- Knowledge, hazard perception, and riding tests
- Mandatory training course costs
- Licence issue/renewal fees
Because prices change, it’s best to check your local road authority’s current fees, as listed below.
| State/Territory | Where to check current licencing fees |
|---|---|
| NSW | Service NSW |
| Victoria | Vic Roads |
| Queensland | Queensland Government |
| SA | SA Government |
| WA | Transport WA |
| Tasmania | Service Tasmania |
| ACT | Access Canberra |
| NT | NT Government |
Fuel costs
Fuel is one of the day-to-day running costs. The good news is motorcycles often use less fuel than petrol cars.
Motorcycles in Australia generally average around 5.6 to 6.1 litres per 100km,5 compared to cars on the road which average 8.9/L per 100km.6
What you pay will depend on:
- Your bike’s fuel economy (L/100 km)
- Riding conditions (for example, stop-start riding uses more fuel)
- Fuel prices in your area
- How far you ride
It’s no secret that fuel prices can vary dramatically. For the latest prices in your area, you can check out these government-backed fuel schemes online:
Toll charges
Motorcycles are currently charged the same toll rates as a standard car across NSW, Victoria and Queensland. However, motorcycling bodies are lobbying to have motorcycle tolls reduced in line with their smaller footprint.7
| State | Toll roads | Typical motorcycle toll |
|---|---|---|
| NSW8 | Yes | $3.00 – $10.40 |
| Victoria9 | Yes | $3.00 – $10.05 |
| Queensland10 | Yes | $3.00 – $6.50 |
Rates current at the time of publishing.
Repairs and maintenance
Regular maintenance is generally straightforward, and includes fixing leaks, and checking your battery, brakes, fluids and filter.
As with cars, it’s recommended to have your bike serviced regularly – around every 12 months. During a service, the technician will usually:
- Change the oil and fluids
- Replace chains, belts, spark plugs and electric components
- Check your headlight and taillight
Major services will involve a thorough inspection, and include things like changing spark plugs, adjusting chains, fitting tyres, and more.
Insurance premiums
Before you jump in the rider’s seat, it’s important to have motorcycle insurance.
You can tailor your bike insurance to include cover for accidents, theft and your gear.
If you live in NSW, QLD or SA, you’ll need to get your CTP insurance sorted. As with cars, this is mandatory for all riders.
From there, your insurance premium will depend on many factors, including the level of cover you choose. QBE offers comprehensive motorbike insurance – the highest level of cover, and also third party fire and theft insurance.
There’s nothing quite like the freedom of hitting the road on two wheels. Wherever you are on your motorcycling journey, QBE is at the heart of every ride.
QBE Motorcycle Insurance Get a quote
1 Redbook Bikes | Australia’s No.1 Bike Research Website
2 Redbook Bikes | Australia’s No.1 Bike Research Website
3 Redbook Bikes | Australia’s No.1 Bike Research Website
4 Motorcycle sales data for 2025 released | Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FACI)
5 Survey of Motor Vehicle Use, Australia, 12 Months ended 30 June 2020 | Australian Bureau of Statistics
6 Light vehicle emissions intensity in Australia | National Transport Commission
7 Tolls – The Motorcycle Council of NSW
8 Toll costs by road | NSW Government
9 Toll calculator | Linkt
10 Toll calculator | Linkt