Although motorbike roadworthiness testing is not yet compulsory, it will soon become useful. France is the only EU country that has not yet agreed to make roadworthiness testing for motorbikes mandatory. In Belgium, motorbikes, scooters and quads will have to pass the test from 1 January 2022. Motorbike accidents are often fatal, and motorcyclists are not likely to escape. This is why it is important to check that the vehicle is in good working order. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things you need to know about the new motorbike roadworthiness test in 2023.
What is a roadworthiness test?
Roadworthiness testing is a mandatory test for vehicles weighing less than 3.5 tonnes. Its purpose is to ensure the optimal functioning of the motorised vehicle, whether it has two or four wheels, as any defects in the latter can lead to a road accident. In addition to the maintenance of the motorbike, a periodic check of its operation is essential. Brakes, lighting, frame, tyres, steering, noise pollution and CO2 emissions, the technical inspection consists of checking the correct functioning of the vehicle in general.
Why should I have a roadworthiness test?
The debate is focused on the accident rate of two-wheelers. In order to reduce the number of road accidents caused by motorcyclists, the government has recently launched a number of action plans. In addition to the compulsory wearing of gloves, the reform of the motorbike licence has also been introduced to make the test more complicated to obtain. Soon, technical inspection will also be part of these obligations. However, this has not quite reduced the number of accidents involving two-wheelers. Motorcyclists are well aware that they do not have bodywork to protect them. Indeed, they take more safety measures and do not ride without checking their vehicle. This way, they are able to detect any defects or malfunctions themselves. However, this does not neglect the need for a technical inspection, as it includes all the checks required to ensure road safety and reduce the risk of pollution.
How is the technical inspection carried out?
There are three main stages to the forthcoming roadworthiness test. A visual check will suffice for the purely technical part. This is the same check that the motorcyclist makes before each departure. In addition, the sound check will also be an integral part of the steps to follow. Similarly, pollution control must, among other things, comply with the standards in force imposed by the European Commission. However, a Council of State will be held to prepare the motorbike roadworthiness test, to establish the principles and to specify more concrete procedures.
What is the cost of the technical inspection?
At present, the cost of the motorbike roadworthiness test and its frequency are not yet defined. In any case, the price will be the same as for cars, and the frequency will also be similar, after four years for new motorbikes and scooters, and then every two years.
The idea of imposing roadworthiness tests on motorbikes has been around since 2017. But the position of motorcyclists and motorcycle associations has not changed either. The French Federation of Angry Motorcyclists (FFMC) points out that road accidents caused by motorcyclists are not related to technical problems due to the fact that two-wheelers are well-maintained. According to the FFMC, technical problems on two-wheelers only account for 0.7% of accidents. It, therefore, considers that the technical inspection of motorbikes is not a safety measure.
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