Motorbike MOT Guide

Much like cars, motorbikes in the need an annual inspection required by law in the UK.

An annual MOT test is to ensure the safety of all road vehicles, ensure they reach the minimum safety and environmental standards required for road use.

These standards apply to motorbikes, as well as other road vehicles such as cars, commercial vehicles, caravans, and much more.

Therefore if you’re a motorbike owner, you should know the ins and outs of a motorbike’s MOT, which is what this article will cover today.

What is an MOT test?

An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test for is a yearly inspection required for all vehicles on UK roads. This compulsory check applies to every road vehicle in the UK, including motorcycles, regardless of make or model.

The MOT ensures that your motorcycle complies with the minimum legal safety and environmental standards.

Even if your bike feels flawless now, regular use can cause wear and tear that may affect its safety and performance over time.

The MOT test is specifically designed to identify potential issues before they escalate, keeping your motorcycle safe and roadworthy.

Riding without a valid MOT certificate is not only illegal but can lead to severe consequences, including fines, penalty points on your license, and the possibility of your insurance being invalidated.

Understanding when and how to schedule your motorcycle's MOT test is vital for all motorbike owners.

How often does a motorbike need its MOT?

Just like cars or any other road vehicle, motorbikes must take an MOT test once a year for ensuring the safety of the vehicle.

For a brand new motorbike, it’s also the same as new cars where the first 3 years of registration the vehicle does not need an MOT.

What will be checked during my MOT test?

As the date for your first MOT approaches, it’s important to know what will be inspected so you can prepare your bike and avoid any unexpected surprises.

Therefore, it’s always good to understand what will be checked for each of these parts of your motorbike.

The main parts of your motorbike that will be checked are the following, but not limited to:

Tyres

Tyres will play a significant role in your motorbike’s MOT inspection.

The minimum legal tread death for motorbike tyres is 1.0mm across three-quarters of the tyre's width, so please ensure your tyres meet this threshold before your MOT test.

Also note that your tyres will be inspected for any cuts, bulges, or other damage that could compromise their performance – check your tyres thoroughly for these to avoid any surprises.

Lights and indicators

Your bike’s lights and indicators are also inspected during an MOT test. This includes the headlights, tail light, brake light, number plate light, and of course the indicators.

The MOT will look to ensure that all lights are functioning properly and are in the correct place.

All lights and indicators must flash at a consistent rate and be bright enough to be seen clearly. Lenses should be intact and not discoloured.

Throttle and clutch controls

Both the throttle and clutch will be inspected, ensuring that they are functioning properly.

During the MOT, the throttle is checked to ensure it operates smoothly and returns to idle when released, with no stiffness or resistance.

The clutch lever must also function smoothly, fully disengaging the engine's power when pulled, and returning to position without excessive play.

Exhaust system and emissions

The exhaust system and emissions are also key areas of your motorbike’s MOT, ensuring it meets environmental standards.

The MOT will check that your exhaust is secure, free from leaks, and not excessively noisy. This isn’t just about passing the test – it’s about making sure your bike isn’t polluting more than it should.

The emissions test ensures that your bike meets legal limits for pollutants. If your exhaust is producing too much smoke or your bike fails the emissions test, it won’t pass the MOT.

Mirrors

Properly functioning mirrors are essential for maintaining awareness of your surroundings while riding, helping you spot other vehicles and hazards on the road.

The test ensures that both mirrors are securely attached, provide a clear and unobstructed view, and aren’t damaged or cracked.

If your mirrors are loose, missing, or damaged, your motorbike will fail the MOT, so make sure your mirrors are in tact before putting your motorbike in for its MOT test.

How can you check the due date for your motorbike’s MOT?

To check the due date for your motorbike’s MOT status, you can visit gov.uk.

Making sure you’re on top of your MOT is very important, as you can start to plan maintenance around the due date to keep costs to a minimum, or even having your bike pass the test.

How much does a motorbike’s MOT cost?

The maximum costs of a motorbike MOT are as follows:

• Engine size up to 200cc – £29.65
• Engine size up to 200cc (with a sidecar) – £37.80
• Engine size over 200cc – £29.65
• Engine size over 200cc (with a sidecar) – £37.80

What happens if my motorbike fails its MOT?

Any major issues that is flagged in the result of an MOT test will fail immediately. The flagged issue will need to be fixed by a local garage before the motorbike is allowed to be on the road.

A minor issue isn’t flagged a significant risk. This doesn’t mean your vehicle isn’t roadworthy, however, the fix should be seen to as soon as possible.

Final Notes

Maintaining your motorbike’s roadworthiness is not just about passing the MOT; it’s about ensuring your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Regular maintenance, understanding the MOT process, and addressing issues promptly will keep your motorbike in top condition and ready for any ride.

By staying informed and proactive, you can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a smooth, stress-free MOT experience. Ride safe and keep your motorbike road-ready!