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

5.2 Suspension & Wheel Bearings

Information	Method of Inspection	Reason for rejection
	1. Using body weight, depress the suspension as far as possible and check for freedom of movement and security of the suspension unit. 2. Check for evidence of fouling between fixed and moving parts. 3. With the side car wheel raised check that the wheel is secure and that the wheel bearings are not excessively tight or do not have excessive free play. Spin the wheel and listen for roughness in the bearings. 4. Check shock absorbers for oil leakage due to seal failure	1. Excessive stiffness of movement such as might be caused by partial seizure of the suspension units. 2. Fouling between fixed and moving parts which affects the movement of the suspension. 3. a. an insecure suspension unit. b, a loose wheel spindle or securing nuts or locking device loose or missing. c. excessive tightness or free play in the wheel bearings. d. excessive roughness in a wheel bearing whilst the wheel is rotating indicating early failure likely, 4. Oil leakage indicating failure of the seal.
Issue Date July 2001