
Motorcycles must undergo inspection once every 2 years within the first 4 years after purchase, and once every year after exceeding 4 years. Relevant information about motorcycle inspections is as follows: Legal basis: According to Article 16 of the "Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People's Republic of China": Motor vehicles shall undergo safety technical inspections according to the following periods from the date of registration: Motorcycles must be inspected once every 2 years within the first 4 years; and once every year after exceeding 4 years. Inspection items: Compulsory traffic insurance (CTPL). One of the preparations for the annual vehicle inspection is to check the validity date of the CTPL, which includes the vehicle and vessel tax. If the insurance has expired or will expire within three months after the inspection date, it is recommended to renew it in advance to avoid delaying the inspection. Generally, when purchasing new commercial insurance for the year, insurance companies will also provide quotes for the CTPL and vehicle and vessel tax, and they will handle the purchase on behalf of the owner.

When I first started riding a motorcycle last year, I thought new bikes didn’t require inspections. However, a friend told me that while new motorcycles are exempt from inspection in the first year, they must undergo an annual inspection starting from the second year. Now that I’ve been riding for almost two years, I indeed have to visit the vehicle management office every year. The process isn’t complicated: wash the bike beforehand, bring the vehicle registration, ID card, and compulsory insurance policy, and the staff will check basic items like lights, brakes, and tires. If the bike has modifications, such as an aftermarket exhaust, it might fail. Once, I didn’t notice a broken bulb and failed the inspection, which led to hours of hassle getting it fixed. So, I think it’s important to check the bike’s condition a week or two in advance—it saves a lot of time and trouble. Overall, the annual motorcycle inspection ensures riding safety. Don’t delay it, as it could disrupt your daily commute.

As a seasoned motorcyclist with over a decade of experience, I have considerable expertise. Regarding the frequency of annual inspections, motorcycles generally require an annual check, but new vehicles enjoy a grace period in the first few years. For example, when I first bought my bike, it wasn't inspected for the first two years, and from the third year onwards, it became a fixed annual routine. The rules are largely consistent now, though there might be slight regional variations, with stricter enforcement in larger cities. For the inspection, I usually do some basic preparations: checking brake responsiveness, whether the lights work, and if the horn sounds. Neglecting these small details can easily lead to failure. I've found that maintaining the bike well in daily use, such as regular oil changes and chain cleaning, makes passing the inspection easier. Honestly, an annual inspection isn't too bothersome—it's crucial for ensuring road safety and preventing unexpected issues. Missing the inspection can result in fines and the need for a make-up inspection, so I've made it a habit to get it done as soon as it's due.

I work at an auto repair shop and often help fellow riders with annual inspection issues. Motorcycles generally require an annual inspection, except for brand-new ones which might be exempt for the first year or two. A common situation is when owners assume everything is fine, only to find out during the inspection that a bulb is burnt out or the brake pads are excessively worn, leading to a failed test. I recommend doing a self-check beforehand—like testing all lights and checking brake responsiveness—as these small steps can save a lot of hassle. The inspection process includes emissions testing and safety checks, and older vehicles are more prone to issues, such as failing emissions or having faulty turn signals. My advice is to find a familiar inspection station, bring all required documents, and it usually takes about half an hour. If problems keep recurring, it’s a sign of poor maintenance, and it might be time to replace parts or get a full checkup. Staying on top of inspections is about responsibility—for yourself and others—so don’t procrastinate.

I place great emphasis on safe riding, and the annual motorcycle inspection is definitely a major event for me. New motorcycles may not require inspection for the first two years, but from the third year onward, they must be inspected annually. I plan a month in advance to ensure my bike is in optimal condition: checking tire pressure, brake fluid levels, and whether the lighting system is functioning properly. Although this process takes some time, it helps prevent accidents. For example, last year, my colleague failed the inspection due to brake issues and nearly had an accident. Different motorcycle models don’t make much of a difference, but older bikes require more careful preparation. The inspection also includes an emissions test, so keeping the exhaust clean is crucial. I believe this is not just a legal requirement but also a reflection of personal responsibility. Every time I pass the inspection, I feel more at ease riding on the road.


