What is Cubic Capacity in Bikes?

CC in bikes stands for cubic capacity and refers to the power output of your bike's engine. It is based on the volume (cubic centimetre) of your bike's engine chamber and the extent of the air and fuel mixture that can be compressed and utilised in a single combustion cycle. The cubic capacity of bikes can range from 50 CC to 1800 CC.

Larger engines with higher CC can handle more fuel and air, resulting in increased power and torque. This makes them ideal for high-performance riding, as they provide better acceleration, higher top speeds and more stability, especially during long-distance touring or aggressive riding. On the other hand, smaller engines with lower CC are more efficient, making them perfect for everyday commuting. These bikes offer better fuel economy and easier handling in city traffic, though they may not match the performance of larger engines in demanding riding conditions.

CC can be used to determine the engine’s displacement. It represents the volume of every cylinder multiplied by the total number of cylinders present in the engine. For instance, a 150 CC engine means a total volume of 150 cubic centimetres with respect to all the cylinders in the engine.

However, bikes up to 500 CC can be purchased and driven in India with a standard or regular licence. For bikes with a cubic capacity greater than 500 CC, you need to apply for and get a separate licence.

100-125 CC Engine Bikes

Bikes with 100-125 CC engines are often popular for their balance of efficiency, affordability and performance, making them ideal for daily commuting and city riding. These bikes are great for people who want something budget-friendly with enough power for daily city riding or short trips.

150-180 CC Engine Bikes

Bikes in the 150-180 CC range strike a great balance between power and practicality. They are more powerful than 100-125 CC bikes, making them perfect for both city riding and occasional highway trips. These bikes often have sportier looks and better performance without being as heavy or expensive as higher-capacity bikes.

200-250 CC Engine Bikes

Bikes in the 200-250 CC range are perfect for riders who want more power and versatility without stepping into the high-maintenance or high-cost territory of bigger bikes. These bikes are great for both city commuting and long-distance riding, offering solid performance, higher top speeds and a sportier feel.

300+ CC Engine Bikes

Bikes with 300+ CC engines are typically more powerful, offering an exciting performance boost and are ideal for those who want a mix of power, speed and comfort for longer rides or highway cruising. These bikes are better suited for experienced riders or those ready to step up from the smaller engine categories.

The role of CC in a bike's engine is pivotal in determining its speed, performance and acceleration. Bikes with higher CC engines generally pack more power than those with lower CC engines. However, it is important to note that the bike's weight and design also play a significant role in its performance.

Another crucial role of CC in a bike is fuel consumption. A bike that has a higher CC generally tends to consume more fuel. On the other hand, a bike with lower CC generally has a better fuel economy.

Influence Power Output

The air and fuel mixture is compressed in the bike's engine chamber to produce power. Therefore, the higher the cubic capacity, the larger the air and fuel mixture that can be compressed to produce power. And a larger compression can lead to increased power output.

Impact Performance

The bike's CC is a significant factor that helps determine its performance and acceleration. The higher the CC and the more powerful the engine, the better the acceleration compared to bikes with lower CC.

Higher Speed Potential and Torque

Bikes with higher CC engines will have a higher top speed potential. They also have greater torque to accelerate quickly and withstand higher speeds.

Suitability Based on Riding Requirements

Bikes with lower CC engines are suitable for daily commutes within the city or in congested areas and offer better mileage. On the other hand, bikes with a higher CC will be preferable for long-distance riding, off-road adventures, etc.

Speed And Acceleration

The importance of CC in bikes is a crucial factor in deciding their speed and acceleration. Higher CC bikes have larger engines that can generate more torque, allowing them to accelerate faster and push bikes to higher top speeds.

Powerful Engine

Higher CC indicates a more powerful engine, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. This is especially important for performance-oriented bikes or riders looking for more power, whether for thrilling off-roading or extended long-distance touring.

Torque

Another benefit of high CC in a bike is that it results in higher torque. It improves the bike's ability to accelerate quickly and maintain strong performance, especially at higher speeds or when carrying heavy loads.

Weight Handling

Another benefit of high CC in bikes is that it leads to better weight handling capabilities. The larger engine capacity allows motorcycles to manage more weight, whether it is the rider, additional gear, or the bike's bulk, without sacrificing performance or stability. This is particularly useful for long-distance touring or when carrying heavy loads.

The cubic capacity of a bike has a direct impact on its cost. Generally, the higher the CC, the more expensive the bike tends to be. Here is how the cubic capacity of a bike affects its price.

Engine Size and Complexity

The bike with high CC generally has larger engines. Most large engines have complex design and manufacturing processes, which often lead to higher production costs.

Performance Features

Bikes with higher CCs usually have better performance features, such as stronger suspension, better braking systems and advanced electronics, which increase the overall cost of the bike.

Experienced Riders

Bikes with higher CCs generally cater to more experienced riders or those looking for high-performance, touring, or sports bikes. As these bikes are marketed to a niche group, the pricing is typically higher to reflect their premium positioning.

First of all, you may never need to calculate the CC of a bike because the company clearly mentions it. But if you still want to do it, you need to know certain things about engines.

Bore: Diameter of each cylinder (mm)

Stroke: Length of the piston stroke (mm)

Number of cylinders: Total number of cylinders present in the engine

• Once you know your way around a bike’s engine, follow these steps to calculate the CC in bikes.

• Find the bore and stroke specifications of your bike.

• Multiply the bore diameter against itself and further with the stroke length and 3.14/4. ((3.14/4) x bore x bore x stroke)

• Divide the result by the number of cylinders.

• Divide the result by 1000 and round it to the nearest number value.

One of the most significant factors that affect bike insurance prices is the cubic capacity of bikes; the higher the cubic capacity, the higher the bike insurance premium. In fact, the bike’s engine capacity (cc) is the sole determinant the IRDAI uses to set premium rates for third-party bike insurance every year.

Third-Party bike insurance: Third-party bike insurance is legally mandatory and covers damages incurred to third parties and their vehicles due to your insured bike.

Stand-alone bike insurance: Stand-alone bike insurance covers damages caused to your own insured bike.

Comprehensive bike insurance: This insurance covers third-party liabilities and own damages caused to your bike under one plan.

As third-party bike insurance plans are mandatory in India, IRDAI determines the premium rates for the bike insurance plan based on the cubic capacity. Here is a table detailing the premium rates based on CCs for bikes.

Also Read: How Much Does Bike Insurance Cost?

The IRDAI determines third-party insurance premiums, but if you want to purchase comprehensive insurance, the premiums may differ from one company to another since more factors are taken into account when deciding comprehensive insurance premium rates.

Insured Declared Value (IDV) and Age

IDV is the approximate current market value of your bike and the maximum amount for which it is insured. As the bike ages, its market value will decrease, and so will the premium.

Make and Model

The bike insurance premium for a basic model will be lower than that of a bike with designer or sports models with enhanced specifications.

Geographical Location

The locality based on the number of vehicles plying on the road, accident rates, etc., affects the bike insurance premium.

Add-on Covers

Add-on covers enhance coverage to help in specific scenarios, and the added benefit is available at an extra cost.

Modifications of the Bike

Modified bikes with special features will increase the premium rates. They are more attractive and increase the risk of theft.

Also Read: Bike Insurance Premium Calculator

Increased Risk of Accidents

One of the main reasons for the high bike insurance policy premiums for high CC bikes is the increased risk of accidents. The high CC bikes have high speed and power capabilities, which increase the likelihood of accidents. Due to this, the chance of a bike insurance claim is high. To accommodate this, insurance providers adjust the premium rates accordingly.

Theft Risk

Another reason for high bike insurance premiums is increased theft risks. Higher-CC bikes generally have a higher cost, which enhances the chance of theft. The elevated risk of theft leads to higher bike insurance premiums.

Cost of Repairs

The higher CC bikes have complex engines and costly components. In the event of accidental damage, the cost of repairing these components can be hefty. Considering this, the insurance provider generally charges a high premium for these bikes.

Also Read: 6 Factors to Consider When You Calculate Your Bike Insurance Premium

Purpose

The intention of the usage is an important consideration in deciding the cubic capacity of bikes. A low—to mid-range cubic capacity will suffice if you purchase it for regular commutes within the city limits.

On the other hand, if you prefer long-distance touring and off-road adventures, purchasing a bike with a higher cubic capacity for increased power and better comfort will be a good option.

Riding Experience

If you have limited experience riding bikes or are a beginner, buying a bike with a lower cubic capacity is best advised. It will help you get reasonable control of your bike before exploring powerful options.

Physical Condition

Bikes with higher cc are bigger and heavier to handle comfortably. Therefore, it is essential to consider your physical condition, strength and comfort zones to decide on the right cubic capacity for your bike. You can take a test ride on different bikes to better understand the bike that suits your abilities.

Budget

Bikes with a higher cubic capacity will be more expensive to purchase initially and manage in the long term, considering the fuel consumption, maintenance, insurance, etc.

The cubic capacity of a bike is a crucial factor when purchasing one, as it impacts its power, performance and other aspects. Generally, bikes with higher CC are more costly than bikes with low CC engines.

The bike CC also affects the bike insurance premium. TATA AIG offers various bike insurance policies depending on the vehicle's requirements. From third-party bike insurance policies to own damage cover to a comprehensive bike insurance policy, we offer plans catering to your vehicle’s needs. We also have a vast network of 10,000+ garages across the country that offer cashless repair services.

Secure your bike with our affordable two-wheeler insurance plan today!

Does a lower CC engine bike have better mileage?

Yes, lower CC engine bikes generally offer better mileage because they consume less fuel due to their smaller engines and lighter weight. These bikes are more fuel-efficient, making them ideal for daily commuting and city riding.

Can higher CC lead to top speeds?

Yes, higher CC engines typically allow for higher top speeds. Larger engines generate more power and torque, enabling the bike to maintain faster speeds over longer distances.

Does a bike with higher CC have high maintenance costs?

Yes, bikes with higher CC engines typically have higher maintenance costs. This is because larger engines often require more complex components, advanced technology and more frequent servicing.