Every motorcycle requires an MOT test when it reaches 3 years old and then every year after that. It is illegal to use your bike on a public highway without a valid MOT certificate so it is a good idea to check when your MOT is due. It has a habit of creeping up on you and before you know it the MOT has run out and you are being pulled over. You can have an MOT test carried out up to one calendar month before it runs out so make sure you book your test in plenty of time.
Listed below are a few examples of what MOT testers are looking for when they are carrying out the MOT test on your bike. These are simple thing that you can check yourself before your MOT test.
LIGHTS: Of the 20% failure rate on bike MOT tests, over half are for defective lights. The tester will check that:
HEADLIGHTS and TAIL LIGHTS: The headlight must work on dip and main beam and the main beam should shine directly ahead and the dip slightly lower and to the left or have a flat beam.
INDICATOR lights must all flash at a steady rate.
REAR REFLECTOR must be fitted to the rear of the bike. This reflector must be red and either fitted separately or included as part of the tail light lens.
BRAKES: Faults found with the braking system are the third highest reason for failure in MOT testing. Scary thought!!
BRAKE DISCS are checked to make sure they are securely mounted and free from cracks and run out.
BRAKE PADS and shoes are checked to ensure that they are not worn beyond limits.
WHEELS and TYRES: Over one quarter of MOT failures are due to worn tyres.
TYRES will be checked for tread depth and condition as well as sidewall condition. Your tyres must be compatible and suitable for road use.
CAST WHEELS should be secure and free from cracks.
SPOKED WHEELS will be checked for broken, corroded, loose or bent spokes.
ALL WHEELS will be checked for run out.
So make sure your honda motorcycle parts are roadworthy!
EXHAUST SYSTEM: The decibel level will be assessed at the discretion of the tester and needs to be as close to the original system as possible. They should not have ‘Not for road use’ stamped on them. The exhaust system must not be holed and should be free from leaks from both joints and box(es). The mountings should be secure and not fouling any part of the rear suspension.
MORE CHECKS
- The horn should be of reasonable volume and a continuous single tone.
- All major components, bodypanels and mudguards should be securely fitted.
- The footrests, handlebar levers and brake pedal must be securely mounted.
- Wheel alignment will be checked.
The checks listed above are just a small example of the work that is carried out during an MOT. Motorcycle MOTs take about an hour to complete including the paperwork so it is a very comprehensive test.
You can book an MOT test here at Honda of Bournemouth for your Honda bikes. We can carry out the test while you wait. You can relax with a complimentary cup of tea or coffee or visit the café next door for one of their legendary bacon butties! Alternatively drop your bike in to us before work and collect it on the way home. The choice is yours. Call Paul, our service manager, on 01202 541226 to book your MOT today.
