Can a Motorcycle Stored for 6 Years Be Licensed?
2 Answers
If you purchased a motorcycle six years ago, it definitely meets the China III emission standards and cannot be licensed now. Below are the relevant regulations for motorcycle licensing: Production Regulations: According to the rules, starting from July 2019, all motorcycles that do not meet the China IV emission standards have ceased production, sales, and licensing. Currently, only motorcycles that meet the China IV emission standards can be licensed. A motorcycle purchased six years ago, i.e., in 2015, certainly cannot meet the China IV standards (the China IV standards were implemented starting July 2019). Therefore, even with complete documentation, it cannot be licensed now.
As a veteran owner sharing my experience, trying to register a motorcycle that's been sitting for 6 years is possible but depends on the situation. First, consider where it was stored—if kept indoors in a garage, there might be less rust, but if left outside exposed to rain and sun, severe paint peeling and chassis rust could make it unsalvageable. You'll need to check if it can start—the battery is likely dead and will need recharging or replacement; the engine might be seized, so inspect if the oil has degraded. If it starts and runs, thoroughly examine the brakes, tires, and lights, as these are critical for inspection. The DMV checks strictly—for example, failing emissions means instant rejection. I recommend taking it to a repair shop first for maintenance: changing the oil, cleaning the fuel system, which might cost around a thousand yuan. If the bike is in decent condition, passing inspection will allow registration, but don’t expect it to be easy—6 years of aging brings many issues. Even after repairs, be cautious about road safety.
