Motorcycle and Motorbike MOT Rules Explained

Motorcycle MOT Rules Explained

A motorcycle needs its first MOT three years after it is first registered, then once every year after that. The rules mirror those for cars in their timing, with the main differences being the test classes and the shorter list of items on a bike.

The class of test is set by engine size. A motorcycle up to 200cc is a Class 1 vehicle, while one over 200cc is a Class 2. The maximum fee is the same for both, so engine size decides the class rather than the price. Our overview on What Is an MOT explains what an MOT is and why it is required.

A bike test is shorter than a car test because a motorcycle has fewer systems, yet it still covers everything that affects safety on the road. The tester works through a set list so the same items are checked at every approved centre in the country.

When Your Motorcycle Needs Testing

The schedule follows the age of the bike in the same way as a car. The table below sets out the timing.

Keeping track of the date is your responsibility, since there is no reminder in law beyond the free service you can sign up for. Our guide on First MOT for New Cars explains when a new vehicle of any type needs its first test.

Class 1 and Class 2 Explained

The two motorcycle classes come down to engine size. Both share the same test standard and the same maximum fee. The table below shows the split.

Whichever class applies, the inspection covers the same ground. Our guide on Motorbike MOT Cost sets out the fees for each type of motorcycle.

What a Motorcycle MOT Checks

A bike MOT is a focused safety inspection. The tester works through the parts of the machine that affect whether it is safe to ride, using the same national standard as every approved centre.

The inspection covers the brakes, the tyres and wheels, the steering and suspension, the lights and indicators, the horn, the exhaust, the frame and the registration plate. As with a car, it does not assess the general mechanical health of the engine or gearbox, so it is a roadworthiness check rather than a service. Our guide on What an MOT Checks lists the equivalent checks for a car.

When a Motorcycle Is MOT Exempt

Older motorcycles can be exempt in the same way as older cars. A bike more than 40 years old and not substantially changed is generally exempt on a rolling basis, measured from its first registration. The owner declares this rather than paying for a test.

As with a classic car, exemption removes the test but not the duty to keep the machine safe. A classic bike still has to be roadworthy every time it is ridden, so many owners have it checked voluntarily for peace of mind. Our guide on Motorbike MOT Cost covers the fees and the exemption in more detail.

Simple Checks Before Your Bike MOT

A few minutes of preparation can turn a likely fail into a comfortable pass. Because a bike has fewer parts, the common failure points are easy to check yourself the day before. Look over the lights and indicators, test the horn, check the tyres for tread and condition then make sure the brakes feel firm and the chain is properly adjusted.

Number plate condition and a secure, legible plate are worth a glance too, since these small items can catch a bike out. None of these checks take long or cost anything, yet together they cover a good share of the faults that come up on a motorcycle test. Our guide on What an MOT Checks lists the equivalent pre test checks for a car.

Ride Legally

This guide is part of our full MOT Guides hub, where the testing, cost and rules articles sit together so you can move to the exact detail you need next. When it is time to book, our team offers full MOT testing and repairs from our centre in Ely. You may also find it useful to read Motorbike MOT Cost, What an MOT Checks and First MOT for New Cars.

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