We Want You To PASS Your MOT
Here is our Basic MOT Checklist
Just a few tips for you before submitting your motorcycle for testing
Headlamps and lights
The tester will look at whether they work, their condition and if they're fitted with the correct colour bulbs.
They'll also check to make sure the aim of the headlamps is correct.
They'll also check to make sure the aim of the headlamps is correct.
Steering and suspension
The condition, security and operation of these parts will be examined. The tester will pay particular attention to the forks, handlebars, head bearings, swinging arm and shock absorbers.
We will raise the front wheel off the ground and move the handlebars from lock to lock to ensure they turn freely.
Then grab the forks at the bottom and attempt to push and pull on them - any movement could suggest play in the head bearing.
Move to the rear and bounce the bike to make sure the suspension is working as expected.
Also, grab each swingarm end and try to move it around. If we can, this could be a sign that your swingarm bearings are on the way out.
If you've noticed any difference in the handling of your bike it could be worth getting us to check it over before submitting for the MOT.
We will raise the front wheel off the ground and move the handlebars from lock to lock to ensure they turn freely.
Then grab the forks at the bottom and attempt to push and pull on them - any movement could suggest play in the head bearing.
Move to the rear and bounce the bike to make sure the suspension is working as expected.
Also, grab each swingarm end and try to move it around. If we can, this could be a sign that your swingarm bearings are on the way out.
If you've noticed any difference in the handling of your bike it could be worth getting us to check it over before submitting for the MOT.
Wheels and tyres
The condition of the wheels and tyres will be looked at. This includes whether the right size and type has been fitted to your motorcycle, and of course the tread depth.
For motorbikes over 50cc, you’ll need at least 1mm of tread across ¾ of the width of the tread pattern as a minimum.
There must also be the correct alignment between the front and rear wheels.
For motorbikes over 50cc, you’ll need at least 1mm of tread across ¾ of the width of the tread pattern as a minimum.
There must also be the correct alignment between the front and rear wheels.
The frame
The bike’s frame will also come under scrutiny to ensure that it’s free from cracks, damage, distortion or corrosion.
The purpose of this is to make sure that it isn’t suffering from any conditions that could affect either the steering or braking.
The purpose of this is to make sure that it isn’t suffering from any conditions that could affect either the steering or braking.
Brakes
The brakes themselves must be operational and perform as expected.
Test them yourself by applying the brakes and making sure the wheels can rotate freely when the brake is released.
Also check that the brake pads aren’t worn.
Test them yourself by applying the brakes and making sure the wheels can rotate freely when the brake is released.
Also check that the brake pads aren’t worn.
Exhaust and fuel system
The motorcycle's exhaust system will need to be complete, secure, free from leaks and as quiet as possible (have your baffles installed). The fuel system must not have any leaks.
Important basic checks
Other points include whether the horn and throttle work, that there are legible registration plates, and that the clutch lever isn’t damaged.
In addition, the drive chain must not be too worn and should have a guard for security.
Number plates must have reflectors under them, we stock reflectors so these can be purchased at time of test.
Number plates must be the correct and legal size, if you have a small plate you must replace it for the standard size.
While all this may seem a little daunting, there isn’t much on the examination itself that you can’t get double-checked before test day.
All it takes is a little bit of forward planning, as well as keeping on top of regular maintenance tasks, and you should sail through the test every year.
In addition, the drive chain must not be too worn and should have a guard for security.
Number plates must have reflectors under them, we stock reflectors so these can be purchased at time of test.
Number plates must be the correct and legal size, if you have a small plate you must replace it for the standard size.
While all this may seem a little daunting, there isn’t much on the examination itself that you can’t get double-checked before test day.
All it takes is a little bit of forward planning, as well as keeping on top of regular maintenance tasks, and you should sail through the test every year.
If in any doubt...
Contact us, either message us on Facebook with photos or talk it over with us over the phone.
01626 366155
01626 366155
For a full list of parts checked during the MOT Test click HERE to visits the DVSA website