New analysis has revealed the commonest causes for bike MOT failure, with defective electrical gear topping the listing.
The examine, carried out by Vertu Bikes, analysed bike MOT testing information for Nice Britain over the past 12 months, shedding gentle on the prevalent points for these autos.
Lamps, reflectors, and electrical gear have been the commonest points in bikes, accounting for a big 41% of MOT defects within the final yr.
The information additionally revealed that MOT exams steadily discovered fault with bike brakes (19%), construction and attachments (11%) and suspension (10%).
To assist motorcyclists keep away from expensive repairs, and crucially keep protected on the street, an skilled from Vertu Bikes has shared their important checks and fixes for the 5 most typical MOT failures.
1. Verify the lights
Earlier than your MOT, take a second to examine your automobile’s lights, together with its brake and reverse lights. Luckily, this examine may be so simple as switching them on and off.
If the bulb seems dim or glints, it may be nearing the tip of its life or there may very well be a problem with {the electrical} connections. In both case, change the bulb with a brand new one, guaranteeing you choose the proper kind and wattage specified by your bike’s producer.
You must also examine your headlamp’s alignment. To do that, park your bike on a degree floor dealing with a wall and swap on the headlamp. The beam ought to be centred on the wall. If it’s misaligned, you’ll need to regulate the screws on the again of the meeting to right the orientation.
2. Look at the brakes
Brakes are a key security characteristic of any automobile, which is why it is best to examine them repeatedly, no matter whether or not you may have an upcoming MOT or not. To take action totally, it is best to comply with the brake strains main from the grasp cylinder, checking for kinks, put on, or improper routing as you achieve this.
Then, if you get to the brake pads, examine its thickness. If the pad is lower than 1 / 4 of an inch thick, it’s seemingly time for a substitute. Many brake pads have a put on indicator groove, and if this groove is now not seen, it means the pad is worn out.
3. Take a look at the suspension
Whereas testing the suspension of your motorcycle is barely extra concerned than different exams, equivalent to checking your lights, it’s an vital one to incorporate pre-MOT.
Begin by on the lookout for any indicators of oil or grease on the fork tubes or shock absorbers, as this may point out a leak. Ensuring the fork tubes and shock absorbers are clear and evenly lubricated will preserve your bike working longer. To do that, drip some lubricant onto the damper physique, look forward to the lubricant to take in the filth, after which gently wipe it away with a fabric. Repeat this course of till the lubricant comes up clear. Doing this repeatedly will forestall filth buildup and rust.
Additionally, search for any apparent put on or injury to the seals, bushings, and mounting bolts, as it is best to search replacements for any elements that look worn out.
4. Set your chain stress accurately
Inspecting the construction and attachments of your bike is important for sustaining its efficiency and security. Luckily, you may carry out a number of easy checks at house.
Make sure the chain stress is accurately set in line with your person guide. The chain ought to transfer easily, be well-lubricated, and freed from rust. If in case you have changed the chain utilizing a cut up hyperlink, be sure that the open finish of the hyperlink faces backward when it’s on prime of the rear sprocket. This backward dealing with place minimises the danger of the hyperlink catching on objects whereas driving.
5. Keep tyre security to keep away from fines
If you’re caught utilizing defective or worn tyres, you would be fined as much as £2,500, disqualified from driving, or get factors in your licence for every defective tyre. To keep away from this, and assist keep protected on the street, there are a couple of fast tyre checks you are able to do.
Firstly, assessment your present tyre strain in opposition to your automobile handbook. If you should alter accordingly, then head to your native petrol station to both inflate or deflate the tyres your self.
You must also take the chance to examine your tyre tread depth. All you should do for that is place a 20p coin in the primary tread channels of your tyre – for those who can see any a part of the coin’s outer band, your tread is simply too shallow and your entire tyre wants changing.
