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Swain's Driving Centre
Harpur Hill Industrial Estate
Buxton
Derbyshire
SK17 9JL

Telelphone (01298) 71037

info@swains-centre.co.uk

Motor Cycle MOT Station

Call 01298 71037 to book.

There are six parts to the test

1. Lights
Front and rear lamps etc, headlamps, headlamp aim, stop lamps, rear reflectors, direction indicators.

2. Steering and suspension
Steering control, steering mechanism/system, power steering, transmission shafts, wheel bearings, front suspension, rear suspension, shock absorbers.

3. Tyres and wheels
Tyre size/type, tyre condition, road wheels.

4. Brakes
ABS warning system/controls, condition of service brake system, condition of parking brake system, service brake performance.

5. Seat belts (Where applicable)
Mountings, condition, operation, position.

6. General
Rider's view of the road, horn, exhaust system, exhaust emissions, motorcycle condition, mirrors, fuel system registration plates and VIN numbers.

Test procedure
The examination looks in detail at all of the above components. The tester is required to follow a procedure and with an assistant will examine the motorcycle accordingly, noting and detailing any items that fail.
 
The test is not the same for all motorcycles and certain types due to their age and design when produced, may have exemptions from some aspects of the test or a greater tolerance level or failure limit. This mainly applies to Classic and Vintage motorcycles, however proof of first registration year and production may be required. If in doubt check with your local test station prior to an examination.
 
For private motor motorcycles a valid test certificate is required on the third anniversary of its first registration. However, it is now possible to have a motorcycle tested up to one month prior to this date and to have the expiry post-dated to the original registration day.
 

The same also applies to the following years tests, thus enabling owners to have time to rectify any failures which a test might find and to have a retest prior to the expiry date of the current certificate, without any loss of certificate length.
 

Should a motorcycle not have a current MOT it must not be used on the public road. However, to ensure you are legal when re-presenting the motorcycle for an MOT retake you must book an appointment and record your name and motorcycle registration at a local test station, prior to driving the motorcycle there.
 
It is possible to obtain from TSO a copy of the Testing Manual for motorcycles produced by the motorcycle Inspectorate. (TSO Orderline 0870 6005522). The publication is amended regularly and purchased separately . However, for most owners and riders, the usefulness of the manual may be limited, as it requires an understanding of testing procedures.
 
Should the motorcycle fail, you will be issued with a VT3O Certificate stating the items causing failure. Be sure you are clear as to what rectification is required for a pass to be issued. In certain cases expert or special services may be required regarding emissions or welding.
 
Current re-test conditions and fees involved will be posted at the MOT test centre.

 

Pre test checks
A motorcycle that is in good condition, that has been regularly serviced and maintained to manufacturer's specification, should be able to pass the test. However it must be remembered that items can deteriorate between services and tests.
 
The condition of corrosion is not easily checked and is best left to be examined during the test.
 
Items which can be easily checked by the owner or rider such as lights, windscreen washers, wipers, horn, mirrors, seatbelts, fuel and tyres (including pressures) should be done so regularly and just prior to the test. It can be very frustrating to receive a failure for one empty washer bottle, a torn wiper blade and stop lamp bulb not working, not least illegal.
 
Get someone to stand outside the car while all lights front, rear and hazard are checked. Replace or repair if broken or faulty.
 
Ensure that the number plates and the motorcycle Identification Number (VIN) plate is clean and legible.
 
Remember to check indicators.
 
Check suspension by applying your weight to each corner of the car then release. The car should settle down quickly.
 
Check the operation of footbrakes and handbrakes. Also check Anti Lock breaking systems (ABS) light operation if fitted.


 

 


 PAUL CARVILL 2003 ©