Motorbike MOT tests are a legal requirement in the UK and are designed to ensure that your bike is safe to ride on the roads.
A number of different items are checked during a motorbike MOT test, and it is essential to ensure that your bike is in good condition before taking it for its MOT. This means that you should carry out regular checks on your bike and fix any problems that you find.
The following checklist may help you along the way.
1. Brakes
The brakes will be checked thoroughly to ensure that they are working properly and as expected. This includes checking the brake hoses, disc brakes, ABS warning lights, and brake pads and shoes.
2. Clutch Lever
The clutch lever will be checked to make sure it is not bent or damaged. The lever should also open the clutch when it is operated.
3. Drive Chain and Sprocket
The drive chain and sprocket will be checked to see if it needs to be replaced. The chain should not be too tight or too loose. The chain guard must be in the correct position and secure.
4. Exhaust System
The exhaust system of a motorcycle will be checked for safety to make sure it is not leaking and to see if it is too loud.
5. Footrests
During the safety inspection, the footrests will be checked to make sure they are present and properly secured.
6. Frame
The MOT will look at your bike's frame to see if there are any cracks or damage that could affect how well it steers or brakes.
7. Horn
A motorcycle horn should be checked to ensure it is compatible with your motorcycle and is in good working condition.
8. Lights
Your bike's lights will be checked to see if they are in good condition, are working correctly, and are securely fitted. The headlamps on your bike need to be the right colour and aimed correctly.
The MOT will also check your bike's rear lights, indicators, and reflectors. Make sure your bike's indicators and hazard lights are flashing steadily before taking it to the MOT centre.
9. Registration Plates, Vehicle Identification, and Frame Numbers
This means that the authorities will be checking to see if your car's registration plate, vehicle identification number, and frame number are all visible and legible.
10. Seats
The test centre will not only check to see if there is a rider's seat, but they will also check to make sure that the seat is attached securely.
11. Sidecars (If Any)
If you have a sidecar on your motorcycle, it will be checked to see if it is properly attached and aligned. The sidecar's suspension, wheel bearings, wheel alignment, lights, and tires will also be checked.
12. Steering and Suspension
The MOT test is a yearly test required by the government to make sure your bike is safe to ride. The test includes a check of the condition of your bike's steering and suspension, as well as other parts like the forks, handlebars, and shock absorbers.
13. Throttle
The function of your bike's throttle will be checked to make sure it is working properly. This includes making sure the throttle can close or idle correctly.
14. Wheel Alignment
To test if your front and rear wheels are aligned, the mechanic will place a special tool on the wheels and check to see if they are level. If they are not properly levelled, then your wheels are not aligned and will need to be fixed.
15. Wheels and Tyres
The MOT centre will check the condition of your car's wheels and tyres to make sure they are secure and the right size and type for your car.
The depth of the tread on the tires will be checked. For motorcycles that are 50cc and over, there must be at least 1mm of tread across 3/4 of the width of the tire. The wheel bearings must not be worn down, and the valves must be in good condition.
Conclusion
To complete a successful motorbike MOT test, it is important to ensure that your bike is fully prepared and that you have followed the necessary steps. By following the checklist and preparing your bike in advance, you can ensure that your bike is in the best possible condition for the test and that you have the best chance of passing.
If you are looking for a company that deals with motorbike repairs in the UK, look no further than our services here at York Motorbikes. When it comes to our customers, we offer a fast, efficient turnaround whilst maintaining the highest standards. Visit our nearest branch today, and let us ensure that your bike is up to par with the MOT’s standards.