This year marks exactly forty years since the MOT for cars was introduced in the Netherlands. This obligation still does not apply to motorcycles — and this is partly due to earlier opposition from the Motorcyclists Action Group (MAG). In 2012, the MAG organized a massive protest ride to Brussels, now that the obligation is again threatened, the MAG is taking to the highway again.
Exceptional position of the Netherlands under fire
The current European directive requires member states to carry out periodic technical inspections of both cars and motorcycles. The Netherlands, Finland, Ireland and Portugal have been an exception to this for years: they do not have to make motorcycles subject to an MOT as long as they can demonstrate that they contribute sufficiently to the road safety of motorcyclists through alternative measures.
However, in a new proposal from the European Commission, this exception disappears completely. This would also oblige the Netherlands to introduce a motorcycle MOT — something that both the government and organizations within the motorcycle industry are strongly against.
The Dutch position is clear. In a letter to Parliament dated May 2025, the cabinet states: *“There is no reason to introduce MOT for motorcycles and there are better ways to ensure road safety.”*
MAG: time for action
The MAG has been opposing what it sees as an unnecessary and inefficient measure for years. Now that the exceptional position is in danger of disappearing, the organization believes the time has come for serious counteraction. That is why a massive protest ride to Brussels is being organized again.
The MAG will make it clear – on behalf of all motorcyclists present and the national and international organizations that support the protest – that they are categorically against a mandatory motorcycle inspection.
Why the MAG is against the motorcycle MOT
The MAG mentions a series of arguments why, in its opinion, a mandatory inspection is of no use:
* The number of motorcycle accidents caused by a technical defect is negligible.
* Motorcyclists who maintain their motorcycles themselves do not drive unsafe vehicles.
* Anyone who has their maintenance carried out by a dealer or garage will be told in a timely manner when parts need to be replaced.
* Lighting problems are a common reason for rejection — but look how many cars drive around with defective lighting despite forty years of MOT.
* The total emissions from motorcycles are low: older motorcycles are rarely driven, newer ones meet strict standards.
* An MOT does not solve noise pollution: a loud exhaust can easily be replaced by a standard silencer prior to the inspection.
* There is already an acute shortage of technical personnel – technicians prefer to tinker rather than inspect.
When does the procession leave?
The European Commission will vote on the new proposal at the end of April. The protest ride to Brussels will therefore take place in the weeks leading up to that vote. The exact date and practical information will be announced soon.
Whatever happens: for the second time in more than ten years, an impressive ribbon of motorcycles will head towards Brussels — ready to make the voices of thousands of motorcyclists heard.
– Thanks for information from Motorfreaks.