Perhaps youâ??ve just got a great deal by winning a motorbike off eBay or through Autotrader, the only downside being that it is located on the other side of the country. Or perhaps the motorbike is a non-runner and you need to get it from A-B ready for repairs or scrap? Whatever your reasons, getting your motorcycle delivered by a motorbike transporter is a fairly straightforward process.Â

Service Type

There are a few different service options available when looking to move a motorcycle.

a) Motorcycle transported inside commercial vehicles on specially built brackets
b) Motorcycle transported on open trailer
c) Motorcycle transported in enclosed trailer

Quite often, the cheapest option will be for your motorcycle to be transported as a part-load with other goods in a commercial vehicle (van or HGV). However, be sure that the transport provider has experience with moving motorcycles and that they are using industry standard brackets/securing mechanisms to help prevent damage in transit.

Custom-built motorcycle trailers do tend to result in a slightly higher cost, however this will help ensure that your motorcycle is clear of other goods. Open trailers are more susceptible to damage and theft as the bike is clearly visible (in particular when parked). Enclosed trailers on the other hand offer a more secure solution and do not carry the risk of stone chips or damage from debris on the road.

Getting Quotes / Prices

Just like any service, you wouldnâ??t just accept the first price you receive. It pays to shop around, so aim to get at least 5 quotes.

Insurance

Without a doubt the most important thing when choosing a motorcycle transporter is to check their insurance documentation. If they are not adequately insured, you run the risk of not only not being able to file a claim in the event of damage but even losing your motorcycle altogether if their transporter is impounded by the police.Â

Policies do vary from company to company, but the key areas you will want to check are the value of the level of cover and cover for both theft and damage.
Your own motorcycle insurance policy may provide some cover for â??vehicles in transitâ?, so it is worth checking this for extra peace of mind.

Establishing the trustworthiness of motorcycle transport companies

Right, youâ??re happy with the insurance document and you like the price, but how can you be sure that they are reliable & have the necessary experience to take care of your motorbike? First off, you should do some background checks on the company. A simple search of the company name on Google should bring up some impartial reviews. The company themselves should also be able to offer you testimonials and references. It is up to them to prove to you that they are trustworthy. If they find it hard to do that, then they probably arenâ??t worth the risk.

Payment terms

General practice is that the motorbike delivery firm will take a deposit (definitely no more than 25%) upon booking their services, with the rest payable on delivery. Usually cash or check is accepted but it is advised to use credit card where possible as you will be able to dispute these charges later should a problem occur.

Go through contract

Verbal promises mean nothing, insist upon a written contract for the services to be carried out. If you are uncertain about any clauses, ask the firm and get them to re-draft it if necessary. There should be a clause whereby you are compensated if they fail to deliver within the specified timeframe.

Preparing the motorcycle for transport

Now that you have agreed dates and signed on the dotted line, you will need to ensure that you spend adequate time preparing your motorcycle for transit. 99% of problems on delivery are down to poor preparation. So, donâ??t leave this to the last minute. The transport firm will no doubt offer you tips as well, but be sure to do the following:

1) Wash the motorcycle thoroughly
2) Make a written note of any pre-existing damage (chips, dents etc)
3) Take photos of the bike from several angles and close-ups of any pre-existing damage
4) Date the photos and written record
5) If your motorbike is being moved as freight along with other goods, be sure that you remove the battery and drain all fluids and fuel.

Remove any accessories and loose items from your bike, the transporter is not responsible for these items if they go missing or are damaged.

If the motorcycle is being trailered, although not always necessary, it is helpful if the bike is in working order in the case that it needs to be driven a short distance between transporters.

So, you should:

1) Inflate tyres
2) Charge battery
3) Fill petrol tank to ¼ – ½ full
4) Check and fix any fluid leaks

What to expect from the motorbike transport company on pickup / delivery
Before you release your motorbike to the transporter, be sure to record the current mileage, although you bike may be ridden a very short distance to get on/off trailers there should be no major increases in mileage between pickup and delivery.

Make sure that you have the driverâ??s contact details and that they have yours.
Upon delivery, you need to inspect your motorbike thoroughly. Do not rush this step or sign anything until this is complete. Check for any new damage or increase in mileage. Only once you are happy should you sign any documents, there is generally no come-back once the papers are signed.

In the unlikely event that new damage has been caused in transit, you should file a claim with the transport company and follow their usual procedures. You should also file a claim with your own insurance company within 24 hours.

Post Delivery

The vast majority of motorbike transport transactions go smoothly, however if there were any problems, first try to iron these out with the firm directly. They usually work on a referral basis and so really do want to resolve any issues that have arisen. If you had tried but feel you are not getting anywhere, you may want to file a complaint with agencies such as trading standards.

Shopping for a Sat Nav can be an overwhelming experience especially when there are so many to choose from. If you are a biker on the other hand, your choices are less abundant, but nonetheless, you still have some great options. Having the right information on the handy little devices can save you big, so make sure to read on.

If you’re an adventurous type of biker, one that likes to hop off the bike and explore by foot, you may want to look into purchasing a navigation that is light weight and easy to carry, and most importantly portable. Many Sat Navs don’t leave you with this option so think ahead and ask questions before you make the investment. It’s also important to pay attention to how the Sat Nav will attach to your bike and what type of vibration proof mounts come available. Being on a bike, doesn’t always allow for a smooth ride, so you want to make sure your device will be secure.

Text to Speech seems to be more of a necessity than an option these days, especially when on a motorbike. This “option” means that instead of having to take your eyes off the road, the biker, will simply be able to listen to the navigations directions and hear, “Turn left at Regent St.” This feature is much safer for you and for the others on the road.

Other featured options include real time traffic alerts to avoid congested areas and even speed camera detection to avoid traffic violations. Imagine the money you could save on traffic tickets.

Battery life is also an important aspect of picking out a Sat Nav when you opt for a portable one, but less so when you can hook it up to your bike’s battery. If you plan on exploring off of the bike, make sure to choose a navigation that can last for as long as you’ll need it to.
With touchscreen Sat Navs, be sure to pick out a screen large enough to navigate through while wearing the gloves you wear on your bike. If you’re interested in the top of the line Sat Nav for motorbikes, check out the TomTom Rider and get exploring.

After the first three years of your bike’s life, it is required by law that your vehicle undergoes an MOT every year. This is check that your vehicle is up to the required standards and is safe on the road. Motorcycles are required by law to undergo an MOT, as well as cars, vans, limousines and other vehicles.

MOT test centers will test various components of the motorcycle, which are deemed to effect health and safety. Like any other vehicle, the main body of the examined as well as the mechanics, however, there are a number of different components to a motorcycle, which also need to be tested.

An MOT test centre will examine the following criteria in the manual (for motorcycles):

The Frame: a MOT tester will make sure there is no potentially harmful damage, such as cracks or natural corrosion. This is because a damaged frame may consequently cause damages to the steering or braking.

Steering and Suspension: In this part of the test, quite a few components need to be tested for their functionality and their security, for instance, the handlebars, the forks, the swinging arm, grip mountings, head bearings and the shock absorbers, as well as the dampening effect.

Wheels and Tyres: Once again tested for their level of performance, condition and safety. An MOT valeter will particularly examine that the correct size of tyre is in place, that the tread depth is adequate and that the valve is in good condition. He or she will also test that the wheels are aligned correctly.

Brakes: Are also tested for performance, efficiency, condition and safety on the road. The brake controls are also monitored to make sure they function correctly.

Exhaust System: The MOT will make sure that every component is in place, is secure and is not making too much noise.

Fuel System: To pass this aspect, your fuel system needs to have no leaks and be fully secure.

Lights: First the condition of the lights will be examined to make sure they operate correctly and are securely fitted. An MOT valeter will also check that the correct colour of light is used for headlamps, rear lights, indicators and reflectors. Positioning and aim of the headlamps is also inspected, as it needs to be within a certain critical range to function correctly.

Seat: This must be present and securely in position.

The Horn: This must also be in working order and be an approved type of horn.

Correct Vehicle Details: All must be correct, visible and securely fixed onto the vehicle; this includes the registrations plate, the vehicle identification number and the frame number.

Drive Chain and Sprocket: An MOT valeter will examine the chain, including, how worn out it is and if it’s too tight or loose. The security of the chain guard will also be checked, as well as the sprockets condition.

The Throttle: This is checked in order to establish that it operates at an adequate level.

Footrests: They will establish that these are in place and are securely fitted.

Clutch Lever: An MOT will establish that the clutch lever is not too twisted, short, or even damaged.

If you have a sidecar, this will also be examined. This includes its attachment, wheel alignment and alignment in accordance with vehicle, lights, wheel bearings, suspension and tyres.

An MOT tests the components of your car to determine how roadworthy your car is, without taking your car apart. However, it does not the engine, clutch or gearbox, nor does it guarantee that your vehicle is roadworthy for the full duration of the certificate. Having regular checkups as well may also be a good way to make sure your vehicle is safe on the road.