What is an MOT?
An MOT test is required for every vehicle in Britain that’s more than three years old, ensuring they’re fit for use on our roads. At Graham Watson Motorcycles, we provide thorough MOT tests, checking the major functions of your bike and awarding you an MOT certificate if it passes.
Does my Motorcycle need an MOT?
Yes, any motorcycle over three years old must have a valid MOT certificate. Riding without a valid certificate is illegal, except when heading to a scheduled MOT inspection, and can result in fines of up to £1,000.
Without a valid MOT:
- Your insurance might not be valid, or may only extend to third-party cover.
- You won’t be able to tax your motorbike.
- You won’t be able to legally park it on the road.
How does an MOT test work?
When you bring your motorcycle to our MOT testing centre, we’ll examine it for any defects or issues to ensure it’s safe for UK roads. Each part of the test is graded as follows:
- Dangerous: The motorcycle poses a direct risk to riders or the environment – it isn’t road legal.
- Major: Issues that must be repaired immediately.
- Minor: Issues that need to be repaired soon.
- Advisory: Potential future issues that need monitoring.
- Pass: The motorcycle meets the minimum legal road safety standards.
Contact us today at 07519087260 or email info@gwmcs.co.uk to learn more about how we can help you keep your bike in peak condition.
What is tested in a Motorcycle MOT?
During an MOT test at Graham Watson Motorcycles, we will examine the following components:
- Lights
- Functionality
- Condition
- Secure fitting
- Correct color
- Headlamp alignment
- Steering and Suspension
- Condition of forks, handlebars, grips mountings, head bearings, swinging arm, shock absorbers, and damping effect
- Condition of forks, handlebars, grips mountings, head bearings, swinging arm, shock absorbers, and damping effect
- Wheels and Tyres
- Security of fitting
- Correct size and type
- Tread depth (must be above 1mm for motorbikes over 50cc)
- Condition of valves
- Wheel bearings
- Frame
- Ensuring no damage, distortion, or corrosion that affects steering or braking
- Ensuring no damage, distortion, or corrosion that affects steering or braking
- Braking
- Condition and performance of brake hoses, disc brakes, brake pads and shoes, and ABS warning lights (if applicable)
- Condition and performance of brake hoses, disc brakes, brake pads and shoes, and ABS warning lights (if applicable)
- Exhaust System
- Secure fitting and noise levels
- Secure fitting and noise levels
- Fuel System
- Component security and leak inspection
- Component security and leak inspection
- Seats
- Secure attachment
- Secure attachment
- Wheel Alignment
- Correct alignment of front and rear wheels
- Correct alignment of front and rear wheels
- Sidecars (if fitted)
- Secure attachment and proper alignment
- Suspension functionality
- Wheel bearings and alignment
- Light functionality
- Tyre condition
- Horn
- Proper functionality and suitability for the motorcycle
- Proper functionality and suitability for the motorcycle
- Registration Plates, Vehicle Identification, and Frame Numbers
- Validity and legibility
- Validity and legibility
- Drive Chain and Sprocket
- Checking for wear and proper tension
- Secure chain guard
- Sprocket condition
- Throttle
- Proper functionality
- Proper functionality
- Clutch Lever
- Usability (no bending, damage, or shortening)
- Usability (no bending, damage, or shortening)
- Footrests
- Secure fitting
What isn't checked in a Motorcycle MOT?
An MOT test does not cover the general condition of the motorcycle’s mechanics. This means the following components are not examined:
- Engine
- Clutch
- Gearbox
For a more detailed inspection and maintenance, consider scheduling a full service with us.