Mandatory technical inspection for motorcycles in France in 2023: what changes for motorcyclists?

It is resolutely clear that the technical inspection of motor vehicles has always been a concern for road users, including motorcyclists. However, this issue has garnered even more interest since a new regulation concerning motorized two-wheelers comes into effect in 2023. What implications and impacts will this system have on motorcyclists? In this article, we will examine the different aspects of this new regulation, including the process, expected benefits, and challenges related to its implementation.

The context of the implementation of the motorcycle technical inspection

For the record, the introduction of technical inspection for motorcycles is not a new idea. Indeed, this measure follows the recommendations of the European Union, which has been advocating for several years to strengthen standards for road safety and environmental protection. Thus, France is gradually aligning with European directives to improve the overall condition of motorized two-wheelers and, consequently, to positively contribute to the reduction of road accidents.

A decision long postponed

Even though the idea of a mandatory technical inspection for motorcycles dates back a few years, its implementation has faced successive delays. Nevertheless, in light of the increasing number of accidents involving motorized two-wheelers and growing environmental issues, the French authorities have decided to make this system effective starting in 2023.

The process of the new motorcycle technical inspection

To gain a better understanding of this unprecedented regulation, it is necessary to study in depth the process behind the establishment of this technical inspection for motorcycles.

The vehicles concerned

First of all, it should be noted that not all motorized two-wheelers will be treated the same when it comes to the technical inspection. Indeed, this procedure will exclusively concern:

• motorcycles with a displacement exceeding 125 cm3;
• tricycles with a power exceeding 15 kW;
• motorized quadricycles according to certain technical specifications.

The implementation schedule

The application of this regulation will gradually begin in 2023, with the possibility of voluntarily undergoing the technical inspection when selling a used motorcycle. Then, starting in January 2024, the inspection will become mandatory from the fifth anniversary of the vehicle's registration. Finally, from January 2025 onwards, the inspection will need to be conducted every two years.

The inspection points

The motorcycle technical inspection will focus on several essential components of the vehicle and will notably cover:

• lighting and signaling;
• steering and suspension;
• braking system;
• wheels, chassis, and limits;
• protection equipment;
• pollutant emissions;
• etc.

A hundred inspection points will thus be examined to ensure an appropriate technical condition for each motorcycle affected by this procedure.

Why is this inspection now mandatory?

Several reasons justify the introduction of this system.

Enhancing road safety

One of the major challenges of implementing this technical inspection lies in the aim of significantly improving road safety. Indeed, motorized two-wheelers are often involved in traffic accidents. It is therefore imperative to ensure that their condition allows for safe use, both for their riders and for other road users.

Improving the environment

Additionally, with this new system, the government also aims to remain in line with the objectives of reducing pollutant emissions. The inspection of motorized two-wheelers could thus help detect and correct issues related to gas emissions, which are harmful to the environment.

How to prepare for this new system?

To anticipate this new legal obligation, motorcyclists have several options:

• to conduct regular checks of their vehicle;
• to limit non-compliant modifications on their motorcycle;
• to regularly consult the list of inspection points on the official government website;

In summary, this decision to establish a mandatory technical inspection for motorcycles in 2023 undoubtedly represents a significant turning point in French policy regarding road safety and the environment. Motorcyclists, some of whom remain skeptical about this measure, will need to adapt in order to ensure a safer use of their vehicles, benefiting all road users.