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Motorcycle MOT Soon? Simple Checks Before Test Day

An MOT failure is frustrating — especially when it’s down to something small that could have been spotted and fixed beforehand. The good news is that most common fails are easy to check for yourself in ten minutes with the bike on level ground. Here’s our simple pre-MOT checklist to help you go into test day with confidence.

1. Lights and Indicators

Lighting faults are one of the most common reasons bikes fail their MOT, and they’re also one of the quickest to check and fix.

  • Check your headlight on both dip and main beam
  • Test your brake light, both from the front and rear brake lever/pedal
  • Check all four indicators are working and flashing at a normal rate
  • Don’t forget the number plate light — it’s easy to overlook but it’s tested too

If a bulb’s blown, replace it before your test. If a light works but flickers or looks dim, it could be a wiring or earth issue worth having looked at.

2. Tyres

Tyres are checked for tread depth, damage, and correct pressure, and they’re another common fail point.

  • Check tread depth is above the legal minimum of 1mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre width, all the way round
  • Look for cuts, bulges, cracking, or embedded objects like stones or nails
  • Check tyre pressures are correct when cold
  • Make sure the right tyre is fitted for the wheel size and speed rating

3. Brakes

Testers check brake operation, brake fluid, and pad or shoe wear.

  • Squeeze the front brake lever and press the rear pedal — both should feel firm, not spongy or soft
  • Check brake fluid is between the minimum and maximum markers on the reservoir
  • Look at pad wear where visible through the caliper — if pads look thin, it’s worth having them checked before test day
  • Listen for any grinding or scraping when braking at low speed

4. Chain and Sprockets

A worn or badly adjusted chain isn’t just an MOT fail risk — it’s a safety issue too.

  • Check chain tension is within the manufacturer’s recommended range
  • Look for excessive rust, dryness, or visible wear on the chain
  • Check sprocket teeth aren’t hooked or excessively worn
  • Make sure the chain guard is present and secure, if your bike has one

5. Horn and Mirrors

Easy to forget, easy to fail on.

  • Test the horn — it should sound clearly, not weak or intermittent
  • Check both mirrors are fitted, secure, and not cracked
  • Make sure mirrors can be adjusted and held in position

6. Exhaust and Emissions

The exhaust is checked for security, condition, and noise, as well as emissions on applicable bikes.

  • Check the exhaust is securely mounted and free from obvious holes or excessive corrosion
  • Listen for unusually loud exhaust noise, which could indicate a leak or an aftermarket system that doesn’t meet noise limits
  • If you’ve fitted an aftermarket exhaust, make sure it’s road legal and doesn’t affect emissions compliance

7. Frame, Fluids, and General Condition

Testers will also look over the bike for structural and general safety issues.

  • Check for any visible fluid leaks — oil, fuel, or coolant — around the engine and underneath the bike
  • Look for cracks, damage, or corrosion on the frame and swingarm
  • Make sure the number plate is clean, secure, and correctly displayed
  • Check the fuel cap seals properly and isn’t damaged
  • Give the seat and any panels a wiggle to make sure nothing’s loose

8. Steering and Suspension

With the bike on its stand, check the basics:

  • Turn the handlebars lock to lock, checking for smooth movement with no notchiness or excessive resistance
  • Push down on the front forks and check they rebound smoothly without excessive bounce or noise
  • Check for any play in the headstock bearings by gently rocking the forks front to back with the front brake applied

Not Sure What to Look For? We’ve Got You Covered

If any of this sounds daunting, or you’d simply rather leave it to the professionals, Taylor Motorcycles offers on-site MOTs at Haughton Garage. Our experienced team can carry out a quick pre-test check, sort any issues on the spot where possible, and get your bike through first time with the minimum of fuss.

Book your MOT with us today and ride away knowing your bike’s road-ready — not just for test day, but for every day after it.

BwarTayl
Sam
Author