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MOT prep checklist

Run through these before the test. They follow the DVSA's list of motorbike parts checked at an MOT, so a quick look at home can save a fail and a retest.

Last checked: 2 November 2026

Tick the boxes on screen, or print it and take it to the garage.

Lights and electrics

Headlight works on dipped and main beam, isn't cracked, and points down the road, not up at the sky
Rear light and brake light work, and the brake light comes on from both the lever and the pedal
Indicators flash on both sides, front and rear, and the warning light on the dash works
Rear reflector is fitted and not broken
Number plate light works

Steering and suspension

Bars turn smoothly lock to lock with no notchy or loose head bearings
Grips and bar mountings are secure
Fork legs aren't leaking oil and the chrome isn't pitted where the seals run
Rear shock isn't leaking, and the swinging arm has no play when you rock the wheel side to side
Front and rear wheels line up (the chain adjuster marks match on both sides)

Wheels and tyres

Tread: at least 1mm deep in a band across three-quarters of the tread, all the way round (bikes over 50cc; 50cc and under need visible tread across the whole width)
No cuts, bulges or cords showing, and the right size and type for the bike
Valves are in good condition
Wheels aren't cracked or buckled, spokes are tight, and the wheel bearings have no play

Brakes

Front and rear brakes work and hold the bike
Pads aren't worn down to the limit, and discs aren't scored, cracked or below their minimum thickness
Brake lever and pedal aren't bent or damaged, and the hoses aren't leaking or chafed
Brake fluid is between the marks

Frame, fuel and exhaust

No cracks, damage or heavy rust on the frame, especially near the steering head and suspension mountings
No fuel leaks, and the fuel cap seals
Exhaust is secure, complete, not blowing and not too loud

Chain, controls and fittings

Drive chain isn't too loose, too tight or worn, the sprockets aren't hooked, and the chain guard is secure
Throttle works smoothly and snaps shut on its own, with the bars at both locks
Clutch lever isn't bent, damaged or shortened so it's hard to use
Footrests are all there and secure
Seats: the rider's seat is fitted and every seat is secure
Horn works and is loud enough
Sidecar, if fitted: securely attached and lined up, with working lights and good tyres

Registration and ID

Number plate is fitted, clean, legible and in the right characters and spacing
Frame number (VIN) is there and readable

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Sources

General guidance, not a substitute for your bike's handbook or a mechanic's inspection. Tickover is independent and not affiliated with the DVLA or DVSA.

Printed from roadlegal.roadlegalapp.workers.dev/checklists/mot-prep