What are the new regulations for National IV motorcycles in 2021?
4 Answers
The new policies for National IV motorcycles in 2021 mainly include four aspects of regulations: relaxing the age restrictions for applying for a driver's license; adjusting the annual inspection time for motorcycles between 6-10 years; modifying the inspection procedures for vehicles with 7-9 seats; and making new plans for vehicles not covered by the new policies (vehicles involved in major traffic accidents and modified vehicles will still follow the regulation of annual inspections). Additional details are as follows: 1. Nationwide inspection for motorcycles: Motorcycles registered within 6 years are exempt from on-site inspections, and motorcycle inspections can be conducted nationwide. Motorcycles exempt from inspection within 6 years are also exempt from environmental inspections. For applicants who need inspections in provinces (or autonomous regions/municipalities) other than where the motorcycle is registered, the requirement for an inter-provincial inspection authorization letter is abolished. For those who have already obtained such a letter but have not yet undergone inspection, the new regulations will apply, and no further authorization letter will be required. For motorcycles exempt from inspection within 6 years, the inspection exemption mark can be applied for across different provinces (or autonomous regions/municipalities). 2. Clarification of inspection exemption periods: Vehicles registered after June 1, 2017, can enjoy the policy of three inspection exemptions. Vehicles registered between June 1, 2015, and May 31, 2017, having undergone one inspection, can enjoy two inspection exemptions. Vehicles registered between June 1, 2014, and May 31, 2015, having undergone two inspections, can enjoy one inspection exemption. Vehicles registered before May 31, 2014, will still follow the original regulations, requiring annual inspections. Note: Inspection exemption does not mean no inspection. When the annual inspection is due, motorcycle owners still need to go to the vehicle management office or its service agents to apply for the annual inspection compliance mark.
When I bought a new motorcycle in 2021, I finally understood the China IV regulations. Simply put, it’s a mandatory national fourth-stage emission standard requiring all new vehicles to be equipped with high-efficiency catalytic converters and electronic fuel injection systems to keep pollutants like CO and HC at very low levels before they can be registered and sold. This directly affects buyers’ choices—older models that don’t meet the standard can no longer be sold, and while prices may have risen slightly, the bikes are now more eco-friendly. As an average rider, I had to specifically check for the China IV certification label to ensure the bike was road-legal. Riding in the city, I noticed the exhaust fumes were much lighter, which is definitely better for health. I heard the policy took effect on July 1st, and older motorcycles in the used market depreciated quickly, so it’s wise to upgrade in time to avoid issues. Choosing a bike with OBD monitoring is even better—if there’s a problem, the warning light comes on, and you can get it fixed promptly.
Having repaired vehicles for over a decade, the 2021 regulations significantly raised the technical threshold for China IV motorcycles, with the core focus on enhanced emission control. For instance, they must now be equipped with OBD diagnostic systems to automatically detect faults. Owners should be aware that if the warning light comes on, it could indicate issues with the exhaust pipe or fuel injector, necessitating prompt maintenance. Costs may be higher as filter replacements become more frequent. I've encountered many customers complaining about the high price of original parts, but in the long run, reducing pollution is beneficial. It's advisable to regularly check the exhaust pipe connections for leaks to avoid being stopped on the road. When changing vehicles, it's also wise to remind buyers to choose certified models, as finding parts for older vehicles can be challenging.
From an environmental perspective, the 2021 China IV emission standard marked significant progress by mandating over 90% pollution reduction in new motorcycles, particularly alleviating smog in major cities. Data reveals that reducing nitrogen oxide emissions below 1 gram per kilometer benefits riders' and pedestrians' health. This policy drives manufacturers to innovate, promoting clean technologies like electronic fuel injection systems and encouraging consumers to prioritize eco-certified vehicles. Simple individual actions—such as supporting low-emission riding—can collectively safeguard blue skies.
