Motorcycle MOT: What Gets Tested, Why Bikes Fail and What Happens Next

A motorcycle MOT is a legal roadworthiness check. It is not a service, and a pass does not guarantee that every part of the bike is healthy for another year. It confirms that the items covered by the test met the required standard at the time of inspection.

When does a motorcycle need its first MOT?

Most motorcycles, scooters and mopeds need their first MOT by the third anniversary of registration and another test every year after that.

Some vehicles are exempt, including certain historic vehicles, but exemption is not the same as permission to use an unsafe bike. The motorcycle must remain roadworthy whenever it is used on the road.

If you are unsure, use the GOV.UK MOT-status service rather than guessing from the bike's age.

What does the motorcycle MOT cover?

The DVSA motorcycle inspection manual groups the test into these main areas:

• •the registration plate and vehicle identification number
• •brakes, including their condition, operation and measured performance
• •steering, handlebars, forks and wheel alignment
• •required lamps, indicators, reflectors and electrical equipment
• •wheels, tyres, wheel bearings and suspension
• •the frame, fuel system, exhaust, seat, footrests and riding controls
• •the horn
• •exhaust noise

The exact requirements depend on the bike's age, type and equipment. For example, not every older motorcycle must have every lamp fitted to a modern one.

Motorcycle mirrors are not a standard section of the Great Britain motorcycle MOT. The test also does not include the same measured exhaust-emissions procedure used for many cars, although excessive smoke, exhaust condition and excessive noise can still cause a problem.

Tyres: the rule riders often misquote

For most motorcycles over 50cc, tread must be at least 1mm deep throughout a continuous band covering at least three-quarters of the tread's breadth and running all the way around the tyre.

Tread depth is only part of the test. A tyre can also fail for serious cuts, bulges, exposed cords, an unsuitable type, incorrect fitment or other dangerous damage.

Mopeds have different tread requirements: the tread pattern must remain visible.

Common problems worth checking before the test

You do not need to dismantle the bike. A careful walk-round can catch many simple problems:

• Confirm the headlamp, tail light, brake light, indicators and registration-plate light work where required.
• Try both brake controls and check that the brake light responds to each one.
• Check the horn.
• Inspect both tyres across their full width and circumference.
• Check that the chain is lubricated, correctly adjusted and not excessively worn.
• Look for leaking fork seals, loose parts and obvious fluid leaks.
• Make sure the registration plate is secure, legible and correctly displayed.
• Check that the exhaust is secure and is not marked "not for road use" or similar.

Do not attempt a repair or adjustment unless you know the correct procedure for your motorcycle.

Passes, minor defects and advisories

A motorcycle passes if it has no major or dangerous defects.

A minor defect is a recorded defect that has no significant effect on safety or the environment. The bike still passes, but the issue should be corrected.

An advisory is different. It records something the tester believes is worth monitoring even though it has not reached the point of failure. Treat it as useful early warning, especially for tyres, brakes and suspension.

What causes a fail?

A major defect may affect safety, harm the environment, put other road users at risk or represent another significant non-compliance.

A dangerous defect presents a direct and immediate risk to road safety or has a serious environmental effect.

Either category results in a failed MOT.

Can I ride after a failed MOT?

The answer depends on the result and whether the bike's existing MOT is still valid.

An MOT is not a service

An MOT tester checks defined safety and legal items. They do not normally change engine oil, inspect valve clearances, replace fluids or carry out the manufacturer's scheduled maintenance.

A bike can pass its MOT and still be overdue a service. It can also be freshly serviced and fail its MOT. They are separate jobs with different purposes.