Motorcycle MOT: What's Checked?

Understanding the Motorcycle MOT Test

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) test is a crucial annual inspection for vehicles over a certain age to ensure they meet road safety and environmental standards. While many associate the MOT with cars, it's also a mandatory requirement for motorcycles. Understanding what the Motorcycle MOT test covers is vital for every rider to ensure their bike is not only legal but, more importantly, safe to ride.

The primary objective of the Motorcycle MOT is to assess the roadworthiness of the vehicle. This means checking that key components are functioning correctly and that the motorcycle adheres to the legal requirements for construction and use. Failure to pass an MOT means you cannot legally drive your motorcycle on public roads. This article will delve into the various aspects of the Motorcycle MOT, providing a comprehensive overview for riders.

Key Areas Inspected During a Motorcycle MOT

The MOT test for motorcycles is thorough, examining a range of critical systems. Here's a breakdown of the main areas that will be scrutinised:

1. Brakes

This is arguably the most critical safety component on any motorcycle. The MOT tester will meticulously check:

• Brake Lever and Pedal Operation: Ensuring they feel firm and responsive, with no excessive travel.
• Brake Fluid: Checking the level and condition of the brake fluid. It should be within the recommended range and not contaminated.
• Brake Lines and Hoses: Inspecting for any signs of cracking, perishing, leaks, or damage.
• Brake Discs/Drums: Assessing for wear, scoring, warping, or corrosion. Minimum thickness requirements are in place.
• Brake Pads: Checking the thickness of the friction material. There's a legal minimum, and worn pads are a common reason for failure.
• Brake Operation: Ensuring both front and rear brakes are functioning effectively and independently.

Properly functioning brakes are paramount for rider safety, and any issues here will result in an MOT failure.

2. Wheels, Tyres, and Suspension

The condition of your wheels, tyres, and suspension directly impacts handling and stability:

• Tyres: This is a major area of inspection. Testers will look for:
• Tread Depth: The legal minimum tread depth is 1mm across 75% of the tyre's width. However, for better grip, especially in adverse weather, more is always recommended.
• Tyre Condition: Checking for cuts, bulges, abrasions, or any signs of damage to the sidewalls or tread.
• Tyre Matching: While not always a failure, mismatched tyres (different brands, types, or wear patterns) can be noted.
• Tyre Pressure: While not directly tested, incorrect pressures can lead to uneven wear and affect handling.
• Wheels: Inspecting for damage, distortion, or corrosion that could compromise structural integrity.
• Wheel Bearings: Checking for excessive play or roughness, which can affect steering and stability.
• Suspension: Assessing the front forks and rear shock absorbers for leaks, damage, or excessive wear. The suspension should operate smoothly and effectively absorb road imperfections.

Worn tyres or damaged suspension can significantly compromise a motorcycle's handling and control.

3. Lights and Electrics

Visibility and the correct functioning of electrical components are essential:

• Headlight: Checking that it operates correctly, is securely fitted, and emits a white light. The aim/alignment of the beam might also be checked.
• Tail Light: Ensuring it's working and emits a red light.
• Brake Lights: Verifying that both the front and rear brake lights illuminate when the respective controls are activated.
• Indicators: Checking that all indicators operate correctly, flash at the appropriate rate, and are the correct colour (amber).
• Horn: Ensuring the horn operates and emits a sound of sufficient volume.
• Wiring: A visual inspection of the wiring for any obvious damage, fraying, or poor connections that could be a fire hazard or cause electrical failure.

Ensuring your lights and electrics are in good order is crucial for both being seen and for the correct operation of the bike's systems. Visibility is key.

4. Frame and Structure

The integrity of the motorcycle's frame is fundamental to its safety:

• Frame: The tester will look for any signs of cracking, corrosion, distortion, or damage that could weaken the frame's structure.
• Swingarm: Checking for excessive play or damage.
• General Construction: Ensuring all parts are securely attached and that there are no sharp edges or projections that could cause injury.

5. Exhaust System

The exhaust system is checked for its condition and security:

• Condition: Looking for excessive corrosion, leaks, or damage that could affect its structural integrity or noise levels.
• Security: Ensuring the exhaust system is securely mounted and not loose.
• Noise: While specific decibel limits aren't usually tested in a standard MOT, excessively loud exhausts due to damage or modification can be failed.

6. Controls

The rider's interface with the motorcycle is also inspected:

• Handlebars: Checking for security and that they are not bent or damaged.
• Twist Grip: Ensuring it operates smoothly and returns to the closed position correctly.
• Levers: Inspecting clutch and brake levers for damage, security, and proper operation.
• Footrests and Foot Controls: Ensuring they are secure and in good condition.

7. Rider's View

The rider's ability to see and be seen is critical:

• Mirrors: Checking for the presence and condition of mirrors. They must be securely fitted and not cracked or damaged in a way that obstructs the view.
• Windscreen/Fairings: If fitted, these will be checked for damage that could impair the rider's view.

8. Other Checks

• Seat: Ensuring the seat is securely fastened and not damaged.
• Chain and Sprockets: While not a primary failure point unless excessively loose or damaged, a severely worn chain or sprockets can be noted.
• Fuel System: A visual check for any leaks from the fuel tank, lines, or carburettors/injectors.

Common Reasons for Motorcycle MOT Failure

Understanding common failure points can help you prepare your motorcycle:

Preparing Your Motorcycle for its MOT

To maximise your chances of a successful MOT, consider these pre-test checks:

• Tyre Pressure and Tread: Ensure tyres are correctly inflated and have adequate tread.
• Brake Performance: Check brake fluid levels and the condition of pads and discs.
• Lights: Test all lights and indicators, and replace any blown bulbs.
• Chain and Sprockets: Check for excessive slack or wear.
• Cleanliness: A clean motorcycle is easier for the tester to inspect.
• Security: Ensure all components, from mirrors to footrests, are securely fastened.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Does the MOT test check the engine's internal condition?

A: No, the MOT test focuses on road safety and emissions. It does not inspect the internal mechanical condition of the engine, gearbox, or clutch beyond what is visible externally and affects roadworthiness.

Q2: What is the minimum tread depth for a motorcycle tyre?

A: The legal minimum tread depth for a motorcycle tyre is 1mm across 75% of the tyre's width.

Q3: Do I need an MOT for a brand new motorcycle?

A: A motorcycle typically requires its first MOT test when it is three years old. This is the same for cars.

Q4: Can my motorcycle fail the MOT for being too loud?

A: While there isn't a specific decibel limit tested in a standard MOT, excessively loud exhausts due to damage, tampering, or missing baffles can lead to a failure if deemed too noisy or if it's a modification that doesn't meet road legality.

Q5: What if my motorcycle has modifications?

A: Modifications must not adversely affect the motorcycle's safety or emissions. For example, suspension or brake modifications need to be robust and properly fitted. Exhaust modifications must not make the bike excessively noisy or illegal.

Conclusion

The Motorcycle MOT test is an essential part of ensuring your bike is safe and legal for the road. By understanding the areas that are inspected and performing regular maintenance, you can significantly increase your chances of passing the test and, more importantly, enjoy your riding with the peace of mind that your motorcycle is in good condition. Regular checks between MOTs are also highly recommended to catch potential issues early.

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