How can you tell if a second hand motor cycle is a uk model or a foreign import?
Answers:
With an import in the UK you will initially find that the speedometer reads in Km's.
however, this always needs to be changed to our MpH for the MOT test.
However, after this has been done, the only tell tale sign that isnt altered is the head lights being permanently ON when riding.
UK bikes need to switch on the lights with a control.
All imports are wired so that they are on regardless of whether you want them on or not!
Its very unlikely a UK owner would bother to alter this.
Also, the logbook / V5 states that the motorcycle was originally declared new overseas.
Personally, I never ride without dipped beam.
Those people in cages need to see us!
Check the speedo - If it's in Km/h then it's an import.
Your local franchised dealer should be able to check the frame number.
look on the log book it tells you
The log book (V5) will state the year of manufacture and / or first year of registration in the UK, providing it is genuine.
Best thing to do when buying any vehicle is have a HPI check done on it, they don't cost much, but will tell you if there is any outstanding finance on it, if it was an insurance write off that has been repaired / cloned, if it is an Import or Grey Vehicle, if it has been clocked.
Speedo's dont HAVE to be changed to mph for an MOT, you can simply get a sticker that goes over the plastic window for the speedo with markers for 30, 40, 50 and 70mph to pass an MOT. (although it should have 60 also, for single lane country roads where the speed limit is national, therefore 60mph)
As for the headlights, i've had a brand new CBR900RR exported from Japan (making it an Import here), it came straight from the factory, full Jap specs, and the headlight wasn't permanantly on, it might be a European feature, or just a very common feature on certain imports.
A complete Vehicle Inspection from a company like HPI will tell you everything you need to know before buying, all you will need is Registration number, and Chasis number.
Also, an RAC or qualified mechanic's inspection is always wise when buying vehicles, better to be safe then sorry, especially for the £100 or so it will cost.
give frame and engine no to dealer ie. honda yamaha
First: "UK bikes need to switch on the lights with a control." This is totally incorrect. All European MC's have to have the headlight on all the time since it became law a couple of years ago. Sorry to say you should ignore that advice.
What you're talking about is spotting a parallel import from an official import. Some dealers will change a "parallel" bikes speedo or headlight to dip the correct way. The tell tale after this is to check the indicator lenses. They'll normally have an E for UK models or ED for other European marked on the lenses. its easy to spot.
The answers post by the user, for information only, UKQnA.com does not guarantee the right.