2024: Will the circulation of your two-wheeled vehicle be prohibited? Find out why (and avoid the mistake)

France is about to make a crucial turn in the safety of its road users, especially for those who, like me, have a passion for the world of two wheels. Starting in 2024, technical inspection will be mandatory for this category of vehicles, according to a European directive from 2014. But what does this really mean for motorcyclists and scooter enthusiasts? Let’s dive into the details that will define this decisive change.

Indispensable checks ahead

I admit, I’m not an expert in mechanics, but I know enough to understand the importance of a well-maintained vehicle (which does not necessarily relate to technical inspection). Starting this year, a “detailed” technical check of the key elements of our bikes is inevitable. Lights, steering, tires, suspensions, not to mention the environmental impact, both noise and atmospheric: everything will be thoroughly examined. And, you know what? Sometimes you’ll even have to be present to help maneuver the bike during the inspection. I think that’s fine… actually, I’m joking, it’s ridiculous…

I remember a ride through the Pyrenees where my trial bike started making a strange noise in the suspension. That directly reminded me of the importance of regular oversight, but would the technical inspection have detected it? I don’t think so.

Furthermore, this inspection will evaluate possible fluid leaks. It may seem trivial, but such an anomaly can really endanger your safety and that of other road users. OK, but every self-respecting motorcyclist checks and maintains their bike regularly.

Inspection results: what you need to know

The implementation of this technical inspection is a big step towards greater safety in theory (we agree it’s more of a pretext to raise money). But in practice, what are the possible outcomes after an inspection? If your bike is in perfect condition, you will leave with a vehicle certified as compliant. That means its state has been considered satisfactory and a stamp will be placed on the registration certificate.

If a major defect is found, but it is not critical, you will be asked for a follow-up check in two months. But beware, in the case of a critical defect, indicating a potential danger to “safety,” your vehicle will be prohibited from circulating from midnight on the day of the inspection. And I don’t have to tell you that driving a non-compliant vehicle or without having passed the technical inspection can be very expensive: up to 135 euros in fines.

Gradual application

I can already hear you complaining about the organization and deadlines. Don’t worry, the implementation of this new measure will be carried out gradually to give us time to adapt. Starting April 15, 2024, motorcycles and scooters registered before January 1, 2017, will be the first affected. The inspection period will run until December 31, 2024, with a deadline for the oldest ones set between April 15 and August 14, 2024. Then, it will be the turn of those registered between April 2017 and late 2019 in 2025, and those registered between 2020 and 2021 in 2026.

As part of a plan for a gradual transition, here’s a small summary table of these dates:

This approach aims to ensure that everyone can prepare to comply with the regulations without rush or stress.

Preparing your bike for the technical inspection

As I mentioned, I’m not an expert in mechanics. But that doesn’t mean I neglect the condition of my trial or trail bike. To avoid surprises on inspection day, there are some preventive actions you can take. First, regularly check the condition of your vehicle, especially if you have a long trip planned. Then, don’t wait until the last minute to make necessary repairs. Sometimes, a simple adjustment can make the difference between passing the inspection and having a major defect.

Anyway, for me and many others, we don’t wait for the technical inspection to take care of our bikes. On the other hand, some users (scooters?) will really need it.