Pennsylvania Motorcycle Inspection

Just like an automobile, a motorcycle owner is required to have his bike inspected by an authorized mechanic annually. The inspector will be looking for very specific things to make sure the vehicle is safe to take to the road.

In general, the mechanic will be looking for the following items when inspecting a motorcycle.

The following areas must be in safe operating condition: Suspension, Steering, Braking systems, Tires and wheels, Lighting and electrical systems, Glazing (Windshields), Mirrors, Fuel systems, Speedometers, Odometers, Exhaust systems, Horn and warning systems, Body, Chassis.

An annual system of inspections in accordance with section 4702 (relating to requirement for periodic inspection of vehicles) shall be established for motorcycles according to the following schedule:

1. Motorcycles whose registrations expire in the months of January and July shall be inspected in the months of May, June or July.
2. Motorcycles whose registrations expire in the months of February and August shall be inspected in the months of June, July or August.
3. Motorcycles whose registrations expire in the months of March and September shall be inspected in the months of July, August or September.
4. Motorcycles whose registrations expire in the months of April and October shall be inspected in the months of August, September or October.
5. Motorcycles whose registrations expire in the months of May and November shall be inspected in the months of March, April or May.
6. Motorcycles whose registrations expire in the months of June and December shall be inspected in the months of April, May or June.

Pennsylvania law also outlines a specific inspection procedure to make the evaluation legally valid. The procedure is too lengthy to list here, but, as a general rule, mechanics are not to certify a bike for road use if it does not meet the standards in any of the above areas. Pennsylvania law does acknowledge a motorcycle endorsement from another state.

When purchasing a motorcycle, research what dealers and repair centers are certified to carry out motorcycle inspections. It is imperative to keep your bike in top condition and to have it serviced on a routine maintenance schedule by a reputable shop. Considering the number of hazards on the road that you cannot control, you would not want to add a poorly maintained bike to the list.

If you are the unfortunate victim of a motorcycle crash, the attorneys of O’Connor Law will provide a free consultation to discuss your situation. Insurance companies will look for any reason to deny or reduce the value of your claim. They may try to point to an equipment failure on your bike as the reason for a crash that results in injury, hospitalization, missed work, lost wages and pain and suffering.

Do not face the situation alone. Let us fight for your rights.

By Michael O'Connor