hmm, dunno what the going rate is for 17yr olds tbh as we have not dealt woth under 19yr old for over 10years, still sounds a bit steep though!
Have you tried Adrian Flux (08700 777888)?
Martin 
^^I'm with Adrian Flux at the mo but after my ban i went with
www.Bell.co.uk, I think they may have a minimum age though, but they specialise in No no claims. Also would recommend that if you're being honest about the mods then be honest about who's driving. At least that way you start earning NCD. You can insure your Dad as second driver which will bring the premimum down, I'm under 30 and still have my old boy on my insurance, saves me about 10%
If you can get it in a garage, fit an alarm with cert all helps to bring it down.
Hate paying for it but I'd rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it, if you follow me.
PS, driving without insurance is def bigger fine than £200.00 plus you think it's hard getting insured now, try it if you get huckled for no insurance.
