
Motorcycles must be inspected every two years for the first four years, and annually thereafter. Here are some important notes regarding motorcycle inspections: 1. The annual inspection validity period expires at the end of the month corresponding to the registration month. 2. Vehicles should undergo inspection within three months before the expiration of the inspection validity period. 3. Before applying for vehicle inspection, the owner must settle all traffic violations and accidents related to the vehicle. 4. Failing to undergo the annual inspection on time may result in a fine of 200 yuan and 3 penalty points. 5. The vehicle owner must provide the vehicle license, compulsory traffic accident liability insurance certificate, vehicle and vessel tax payment or tax exemption certificate, and motor vehicle safety technical inspection certificate.

Last time I rode my bike to the inspection station, the old mechanic nagged at me for ages. The first six years with a motorcycle are indeed hassle-free - just apply for the exemption mark online via the Traffic Management 12123 app with a few taps. But starting from the sixth year, you better make the annual pilgrimage to the inspection line honestly. They'll check everything from emissions to brakes and headlights. For bikes over ten years old like my 1998 Changjiang 750, it's even more frequent - every six months. Oil leaks and burning oil are just part of the charm with vintage bikes, barely passing inspections with constant patching up. Modified bikes need special attention - aftermarket exhausts usually mean reinstalling stock parts. Don't forget your insurance documents, and replacing front brake pads beforehand is always a safe bet.

Speaking of inspection cycles, many people actually stumble over the procedures during the exemption period. New cars don't need to undergo on-site testing within the first 6 years, but remember to apply for the exemption decal in the second and fourth years. Just last week, someone in my social circle posted a traffic ticket, thinking the exemption meant no action was required. Starting from the sixth year, annual inspections become mandatory, and emissions testing is particularly strict now. For vehicles over ten years old, their condition deteriorates quickly, making semi-annual inspections truly necessary. Inspection station technicians often frown at older cars, with insufficient headlight brightness being the most common issue—replacing bulbs in advance can save trouble. Recently, with the hot weather, waiting times have been especially long. It's recommended to arrive right at 8 a.m. and bring a bottle of ice water to wait it out.

The inspection cycle is divided into three stages. For the first 6 years, you only need to collect the inspection-exempt sticker at the 2nd and 4th year, with an on-site emission and brake test at the 6th year. From the 7th to the 10th year, annual inspections are required, focusing on brake pad thickness and chain wear. Vehicles over 10 years old undergo inspections every six months, mainly to prevent aging and oil leaks. My 12-year-old Honda CG125 failed last time due to excessive oil stains on the chassis. Remember to book the inspection station in advance, and all aftermarket parts must be reverted to factory condition. Bring the original ID card and a copy of the insurance policy, and avoid modifying the exhaust to a straight pipe as it will result in immediate rejection.


