Numberplate

All number plates must comply with The Road Vehicles (Display of Registration Marks) Regulations 2001, although different rules apply to plates fixed to vehicles before 2001 than after.

Illegal number plates are like a target on your back. As soon as the police spot a motorcycle with an illegal number plate they are entitled to ask to see the rider's MOT and insurance certificates along with their driving licence. It also gives them free rein to crawl all over the motorbike trying to find other offences.

The registration plate must be fixed vertically to the rear of the motorcycle, be distinguishable in normal daylight and be properly lit. The registration cannot be on a single line and character height must be at least 64mm.

What am I looking at?

Offences carry a fine of up to £1,000, but no points. There is 6 months to bring a prosecution and no requirement for an NIP beforehand. Persistent offending can lead to your registration plate being confiscated and you getting a "Q" plate for your vehicle.

Failing to display a number plate also carries a fine. However, if you try to obscure or change your number plate to avoid being caught for speeding then you are looking at an offence of "attempting to pervert the course of justice". If you are convicted of this then pack your toothbrush because you are probably going to jail. 

What effect does this have on liability?

The only situation where we have found a numberplate to be relevant to an accident is when it fell off a car and the motorcyclist lost control when the front wheel hit it. It will come as no surprise to hear that the other side challenged us to prove it came off their car.