Motorbike Check

Purchasing a new motorbike can be a very exciting event! Whether it is your first bike, or if you are upgrading, the most important factor remains the same – Is this a safe motorbike? We all know the extra risks that come along with riding a motorbike, as opposed to being in a car. You are much more exposed, there is less protection, and your visibility to other drivers is lessened. However, if you are a safe driver, it is a very convenient method of transportation. Much like cars however, it is so important to know the history of the motorbike, prior to making a purchase.

We get all our information from the DVLA, so you can have peace of mind, knowing that we can access all of the information that your motorbike was listed as when it was first registered. If you require any further insurance information outside of our initial reports, you can easily do this here, all you need is the registration number!

What does the motorbike check include?

* Make and model
* DVLA registration details
* Full MOT history
* Tax history
* Age
* Fuel type
* Insurance group
* Current owners timeline of ownership and V5C issue date
* Engine size
* Emissions
* If the bike is registered as being stolen

Original guide plus bike checks

Motorbike checks need identity, theft and write-off evidence

A bike can carry the same finance, stolen, mileage and damage risks as a car, with extra attention needed around identity, modifications and security.

Before viewing a bike

Run the registration check, then compare frame/VIN details, MOT mileage and seller paperwork. Cheap private bikes deserve the same diligence as expensive cars.

• Check stolen and write-off markers.
• Review MOT mileage and advisories.
• Compare frame/VIN and V5C details.
• Ask about modifications, keys and service evidence.

At the viewing

Look for matching identifiers, signs of damage repair, security evidence and paperwork consistency. A rushed cash sale with weak documents is high risk.

Bike-specific questions

Ask about keys, immobilisers, alarms, modifications, track use, storage and ownership history. These details affect insurance, value and whether the bike has been cared for properly.

• Check both keys are present where expected.
• Ask whether modifications are declared.
• Review tyres, chain, sprockets and brake wear.
• Compare service evidence with mileage and age.

Internal checks to run next

• Motorbike history check
• Stolen car check
• Insurance write-off check
• Mileage check
• VIN check

Official references to verify alongside this guide

Use Car Check Experts for buyer-focused history checks, then compare key legal and road-use details with official services where they apply.

• GOV.UK MOT statusOfficial MOT status and expiry lookup.
• GOV.UK vehicle tax and SORNOfficial vehicle tax, SORN and tax-rate service.
• DVLA keeper change serviceOfficial DVLA sold, transferred or bought vehicle service.
• TfL vehicle checkerOfficial ULEZ and London charging-zone checker.
• askMID insurance lookupOfficial Motor Insurance Database vehicle enquiry.

Quick answers

Should I check a cheap motorbike?

Yes. Low price does not protect against stolen, finance or write-off history.

Is bike mileage important?

Yes. Compare MOT mileage with condition, service evidence and seller story.