Moped and scooter shop with servicing

Commuters, students, delivery riders, and first-time riders who have done or are about to do their CBT.

Margin on each bike sold, workshop labour and parts for servicing, and accessory sales. Servicing tends to give steadier income between sales.

• Basic mechanical knowledge, or a mechanic you can rely on
• Selling and explaining options clearly
• Pricing used stock sensibly
• Keeping stock and paperwork in order

• Motor trade insurance and public liability insurance, plus cover for stock and any test rides
• Consumer Rights Act duties when selling to the public, including bikes being of satisfactory quality, so check your obligations with Trading Standards
• Checking every used bike's history (stolen, outstanding finance, V5C paperwork) before you buy
• Check the planning use class and lease terms for any unit, and ask the council about business rates
• New brand dealer agreements may set minimum stock or premises standards, so read the terms carefully
• Selling on finance may need Financial Conduct Authority permissions, so check before offering it

Startup costs are typically around £15,000 to £60,000, depending on your unit, the new or used stock you buy and any servicing equipment. These are estimates, so check rent, lease terms and rates.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £5,000 to £25,000, depending on how many bikes you sell and how much servicing and accessory work you add. Revenue is before stock and running costs.

Check motor trade and public liability insurance, your Consumer Rights Act duties with Trading Standards, and every used bike's history and V5C paperwork. Also check planning use class, lease terms and business rates, and whether offering finance needs Financial Conduct Authority permissions.