What's the deal on de-restricting a 50?

[Archon]

I'm going to get a 50cc bike soon and I want to know if I can legally de-restrict it (as I don't particularly want to be riding around at 30mph for a year). Is there any way I can do this, or will I just have to try not to get caught? Obviously it's illegal if I don't tell the insurance company, but is there anything else I should know?

[PsychoHippy]

If you are under 17 then it's illegal.

Simple as that really.
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I spend all my money on bikes and beer, the rest I simply waste!

[Archon]

So how many 50 riders here have their bikes de-restricted? I'm guessing not many.

[TiN]

When you're 16, you're only allowed to take the CBT, which will entitle you to ride a moped with L-plates. By definition, a moped is a machine that is 50cc or under and capable of speeds not exceeding 30mph.

If you derestrict it, the scooter/bike will no longer be classified as a moped (legally speaking) and therefore you will be violating the licencing laws and, of course, your insurance will be void.

Having said that, I personally think that being stuck at 30mph is dangerous (although I personally wouldn't allow 16 year olds to ride/drive anything on the roads ), and de-restricting is very common.
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TiN
dotgems.net

[Syfoon]

You'd guess wrong.

Loads of 50 riders (But, theres hardly any here) have theirs derestricted.

Same with 125'er on L's, often they have full power bikes, even though they shouldn't do.
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Not here...

[Archon]

I meant to say that not many have them restricted.

[TiN]

Well, you got your answer mate - it's illegal <full stop>

If you get comfort by knowing that it's a common activity and decide to de-restrict your 50, then you're the only one taking the chance.
If you get caught, then you get caught, if you don't, well, you don't. Just because other people have(n't) gotten away with it doesn't necessarily mean that you will be the same.
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TiN
dotgems.net

[Syfoon]