You have to be more careful about the paperwork while buying a secondhand motorcycle than a new motorcycle. However, there are some must-have documents about which every second-hand motorcycle buyer has to be responsible and careful.
1. Registration certificate (RC)
The very first step is to make sure about the motorcycle registration certificate. Every motorcycle rider needs a registration certificate to drive legally. With the appropriate motor vehicle authority the buyer should register the motorcycle in their name. If your motorcycle is not registered yet or has expired, take immediate action to register or renew the date by submitting the necessary paperwork with the required fees. Here are a few things that a motorcycle registration certificate contains: The manufacturing date of the motorcycle, Engine type, and number, Registration number and date, Chassis number, Model number Colour, Fuel type, and Name and address of the motorcycle owner.
2. Motorcycle license
Make sure that the motorcycle you have purchased holds a valid license. Without a motorcycle license, it’s illegal to drive on the road. Driving on the highway without a motorcycle licence your motorcycle will be confined by the authorities.
3. Insurance
Make sure your motorcycle has insurance before taking it to the highway. Driving a motorcycle without insurance is illegal. Driving without insurance and if you are caught by traffic police and guess what? you get a fine ticket for that. Insurance gives damage protection for your physical and motorcycle damage. Before putting your motorcycle on the road you must have at least a third party cover. Make sure about your insurance restriction. Some insurance policies will not permit you to do business with your motorcycle and not even take any competition or racing. Make sure about the policies and use the insurance wisely.
4. Sales Receipt
A bill of sale is a document to prove the authenticity of the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. A bill of sale contains details of both parties, motorcycle selling date, price, color, model, engine and chassis number, VIN, etc.
5. Title transfer
An ownership transfer title document is mandatory to prove the legal ownership to the buyer. The seller has to sign the title to the buyer and after that, with a relevant motor vehicle department or agency the title is required to transfer into their name.
6. Tax evidence
Though it is a pre-purchase process of the motorcycle, you have to ensure that the tax on the motorcycle is paid on time and properly. This matter should be checked before buying the motorcycle. Moreover, you will be accused of tax evasion.
7. MOT test certificate
The motorcycle you have bought must have a MOT test certificate if it is older than three years. Every year you have to renew the certificate. The MOT test determines if your motorcycle is fit for driving on the road and not affecting the environment.
8. Service and maintenance history
Last but not least. Though it’s not a legal requirement, it’s still very important to get a rough idea about the durability and performance of the motorcycle you are buying. The services and maintenance history will give you an idea.
Be aware and prepare all the documents required for driving a motorcycle on the road and if necessary contract with your motor vehicle department to get more detailed information about the papers and the process.