What is Cubic Capacity (CC) in Motorcycles and Its Types

Buying a two-wheeler can be confusing. Considering there are various factors you should consider when buying the right two-wheeler, it may be possible that can easily leave you in a dilemma. Also, not everyone who purchases a two-wheeler uses it for the same purpose. Some use it for city commutes, whereas adrenaline junkies buy it for performance motor sports. Design, power output, weight, are some of the factors that are checked when buying one. Another such factor is the cubic capacity, often abbreviated as “CC”.

What Is CC in Bike?

Cubic capacity or CC of the bike is the power output of the engine. The cubic capacity is the volume of the chamber of the bike’s engine. Higher the capacity, larger the quantity of air and fuel mixture compressed to produce power. This larger compression of the air and fuel mixture results in a higher power output. Different bikes have different capacities of engines, beginning from 50 CC all the way up to 1800 CC on some sports cruisers. This cubic capacity of the engine is a determining factor in understanding how much output the engine can produce in terms of torque, horsepower, and mileage. What’s more, it also influences the bike insurance premiums.

Importance of CC in Bikes

The cubic capacity of a bike plays a crucial role in determining its engine performance. A higher CC signifies a larger engine cylinder capable of accommodating more air-fuel mixture, thus delivering more power. For example, a 150cc engine generally produces more power and speed than a 100cc engine. However, a higher CC in bikes also means increased fuel consumption. While low-CC bike engines are ideal for daily commuting due to better mileage, high-CC engines are preferred by those looking for power-packed rides or adventure biking. This balance between power and fuel efficiency makes understanding what is the meaning of CC in bikes essential when making your purchase.

Different CC Motorcycles Available in India

In India, motorcycles are available in a wide range of cubic capacities, ranging from 100cc to over 1000cc. Here are the most common CC categories and their characteristics:

1. 100-125 CC

These bikes are ideal for daily commuting and offer excellent fuel efficiency. They are easy to handle and maintain, making them popular among beginners and budget-conscious riders. However, they are not suitable for high-speed riding or long-distance travel.

2. 150-180 CC

This category of bikes balances power and fuel efficiency, making them suitable for both city and highway riding. They offer a good balance of speed, acceleration, and handling, making them a popular choice for everyday use.

3. 200-250 CC

These bikes are more powerful and suitable for highway cruising. They offer better acceleration, speed, and handling than lower CC bikes, but they require more maintenance and consume more fuel.

4. 300+ CC

These bikes are the most powerful and expensive, suitable for experienced riders who want the ultimate thrill of riding. They offer exceptional speed, acceleration, and handling, making them ideal for racing and touring. However, they require more maintenance, consume more fuel, and have higher insurance premiums.

Impact of CC on Two-wheeler Insurance

Usually, the higher the CC of the bike, the higher the premium. The reason for this is that repairs for a higher CC bike would cost more. Here's how cubic capacity impacts different components of :

1. Third-party Liability Insurance

Third-Party Liability Insurance covers the damages caused to third-party property or person due to an accident involving your bike. The premium for third-party liability insurance depends on the category of cubic capacity your bike belongs to. The higher the CC, the higher the premium.

2. Comprehensive Insurance

Comprehensive insurance covers third-party liability as well as damages to your bike due to accidents, theft, natural calamities, and more. The premium for comprehensive insurance is determined using the cubic capacity of the bike among other factors. Hence, a higher CC bike would have high premium.

3. Add-on Covers

Add-on covers enhance the coverage of your bike. These add-ons cover specific damages such as engine protection, pillion rider cover, zero depreciation cover, and more. A higher CC bike could require additional coverage. This, in turn, could raise the premium for your two-wheeler insurance coverage.

4. Insured Declared Value (IDV)

Insured Declared Value (IDV) is the maximum amount the insurance company will pay in case of a total loss or theft of your bike. The IDV is calculated based on the cubic capacity of the bike, among other factors. A higher IDV often means a higher premium. In the case of bike insurance, the premium for comprehensive bike insurance can vary across different insurance providers. However, the premium for third-party two-wheeler insurance is set by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI).

What is the role of CC in bikes?

The role of CC (Cubic Capacity) in bikes refers to the engine's volume, typically measured in cubic centimeters (CC). It indicates the size of the engine and directly impacts the bike's power, performance, and fuel efficiency. Higher CC engines generally produce more power and are suitable for high-speed riding and long-distance travel, while lower CC engines are often more fuel-efficient and ideal for city commutes.

1. Power output: Higher CC means more power.
2. Performance: Influences acceleration and top speed.
3. Fuel efficiency: Lower CC engines are more fuel-efficient.
4. Riding experience: Affects smoothness and control.

How much CC can a bike be allowed to have in India?

Up to 500CC bikes can be driven with a normal license. For bikes with CC more than 500, a separate license is issued.

How to Calculate a Bike’s CC?

Calculating a bike's cubic capacity involves a simple formula. The cubic capacity is derived from the volume of a cylinder, which is calculated using the bore (diameter of the cylinder) and stroke (distance the piston travels). The formula is as follows: CC = π/4 × bore² × stroke × number of cylinders For instance, if a bike has a bore of 50 mm and a stroke of 70 mm in a single-cylinder engine, the calculation would be: CC= 3.1416/4 × (50²) × 70 × 1CC CC = 1,37,437 mm³ or approximately 137.4cc This formula highlights the exact CC full-form bike specifications manufacturers use to categorise engine capacity.

What is the Advantage of Higher CC in a Two Wheeler?

A higher CC (Cubic Capacity) in a bike offers several advantages, especially for riders seeking more power and performance.

1. Increased Power: A larger engine generates more power, resulting in better acceleration and higher top speeds.
2. Improved Performance: Higher CC engines provide enhanced performance, especially for long-distance rides, highway cruising, and uphill travel.
3. Better Load Handling: Bikes with higher CC can handle heavier loads and longer trips without straining the engine.
4. Smoother Ride: Higher CC engines tend to offer a smoother, more stable ride at higher speeds, ideal for highway use.

However, it's important to note that these advantages often come with reduced fuel efficiency compared to lower CC bikes.

How Do You Choose the Right CC When Buying a Bike?

Choosing the right CC in bikes depends on your specific needs and riding style. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Daily Commutes

For city rides or short commutes, a bike with 100cc to 150cc is ideal. These engines are fuel-efficient and offer smoother rides in urban traffic.

2. Long-Distance Rides

If you are an enthusiast of highway cruising or adventure trips, bikes with 200cc to 400cc are suitable as they provide better speed and endurance.

3. High Performance

For racing or extreme performance, bikes with 500cc and above deliver exceptional power and acceleration. However, they require skilled handling and higher maintenance.

How does your bike’s CC affect its premium?

Bike insurance premiums are not calculated on a single factor, but many factors combined together, one of which is the cubic capacity of the bike. This is why you might notice owners of the same two-wheeler ending up paying different insurance premiums for their vehicle. There are two types of bike insurance plans you can buy - third-party and comprehensive. A third party bike insurance cover is the minimum requirement for all bike owners wherein it covers third-party injuries and damages to property. Thus, the premiums for these plans are determined by the regulator, the IRDAI (Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India). The IRDAI has defined slab rates based on the cubic capacity of the vehicle to determine the bike insurance premiums. The table below elaborates on it –

Slabs for Cubic Capacity of the bike	Third-party Insurance Cost for Two-wheelers
Up to 75 cc	₹ 482
Exceeding 75 cc and up to 150 cc	₹ 752
Exceeding 150 cc and up to 350 cc	₹1193
Above 350 cc	₹2323

For a comprehensive cover, the coverage isn’t limited to third-party losses, but extends to own-damages too. As a result, the premium is based on many other factors and not only the cubic capacity of the vehicle. Here are some factors that impact the premium for comprehensive plans.

1. The model of the bike plays a crucial role in determining the premium. Since different manufacturers have different price tags for various models, the risk the insurer assumes differs.
2. Next, higher the engine capacity, higher will be its insurance premium, since the cost of repairs is greater.
3. A voluntary deductible is one factor impacting the bike insurance premiums. A nominal amount is required to be paid with every insurance claim. This amount is known as the standard deductible. But other than the standard deductible, you can opt for a voluntary deductible wherein you choose to bear some amount of the insurance claim. This in turn helps you reduce your bike insurance premium.

The premium of a comprehensive cover can be computed on our bike insurance calculator instantly. Try it out now! Other than the above, the no-claim bonus, your bike’s safety equipment, and the add-ons to your insurance policy are some factors that impact the premiums too.

Conclusion

Assessing these aspects helps riders understand what is meant by CC in bikes and how it aligns with their requirements. Additionally, securing a bike policy renewal from Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Company ensures you can enjoy your bike without worrying about unforeseen risks

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can CC affect bike speed?

While CC may not affect the bike speed, it does affect the overall performance of the bike in the longer run.

2. How does the CC affect the cost of the bike?

A bike with a higher CC costs more due to the bigger engine being used to produce more power and torque.

3. Does a 1000CC bike require a third-party insurance?

Yes, as per the Motor Vehicles Act  of 1988, each vehicle needs to be insured by third-party insurance.

4. Which CC is best for a bike?

The best CC for a bike depends on its intended use. For daily commutes, 100cc to 150cc bikes are ideal, while 200cc to 400cc suits long-distance riders. High-performance needs may demand 500cc or more.

5. Is a higher CC bike the best choice?

Not always. While higher CC in bikes offers more power and performance, it comes with increased fuel consumption and maintenance costs. It’s essential to choose based on your riding needs and experience.

6. What factors besides CC influence a bike's performance?

Several factors, including engine type, gear ratio, bike weight, aerodynamics, and tyre quality, significantly influence a bike’s performance alongside its CC in a bike.