MOTORCYCLE MOT TEST

Extracts reproduced from the MOT Inspection Manual
by kind permission of THE VEHICLE INSPECTORATE.

MOT Manual for Bikes (Detailed Version)

1.1 Front & Rear position lamps 2.1 Steering Control 3.1 Brake Controls 5.1 Security
1.2 Headlights 2.2 Steering System 3.2 Brake Systems 5.2 Suspension & Wheel Bearings
1.3 Stop Lamps 2.3 Front Suspension & Wheel Bearings 3.3 Brake Performance 5.3 Wheel Alignment
1.4 Rear Reflectors 2.4 Rear Suspension & Wheel bearings   6.1 Horn (Audible Warning)
1.5 Direction Indicators 2.5 Wheel Alignment (Solo machine) 4.1 Tyres  
1.6 Headlamp Aim   4.2 Wheels  
1.3 Stop Lamps
Information Method of Inspection Reason for rejection
This inspection applies to; all machines except those which have neither front nor rear position lamps, or has such lamps permanently disconnected, painted over or masked that are (see 1.1).

Exemptions
For this test if a stop lamp is fitted, it must meet the requirements of this inspection, but need not be fitted to a machine which:

a. cannot exceed 25mph, or
b. was first used before 1 January I936.or
c. was first used before 1 April 1986 and which has an engine capacity of less than 50cc.

Operation
Stop lamps may operate in conjunction with either the front or the rear brake, or both. On machines first used on or after 1 April 1986, the stop lamps must operate by the application of each system.

On machines without a battery or with an insufficiently charged battery, it will be necessary to run the engine.

1. Apply each of the brakes in turn and check the colour and functioning of the stop lamp. (see information column).

2. Check that the illumination of the lamp is not affected by the operation of any other lamp or the horn.

3. Check the condition and security of the stop lamp (see information column),
1. A stop lamp

a. does not illuminate immediately a brake applies

b. emits other than a steady red light

c. that is obscured

d- flickers when tapped lightly by hand

e. remains on when the brake is released.

2. The illumination of the stop lamp is
affected by the operation of another lamp or the horn.

3. A stop lamp
a. missing or so damaged or deteriorated that its function is impaired

b. insecure.
Issue Date July 2001