So my Vsepa failed it's MOT....

[OneFootInTheGravy]

But then passed it minutes later! (phew)

This is the 4th MOT the old girl has had in my ownership (I think this will be its 12th in total) and it was failed for not having a rear reflector. The bizarre thing is, to my knowledge it's never had a rear reflector and has passed every other MOT with a clean sheet. Also, it was the same chap at the same centre who MOT'd it last time with no issue. I know that this isn't a new rule either because my old Yamaha Vity was picked up for this issue too when I had that. I even went and check old photos of my Vespa to make use I wasn't going mad (did there used to be a reflector that has since fallen off?).

Anyway, my Vespa now has a pimple on her arse, but then again she is a teenager now so I guess it's only befitting!

[Data]

Is it the GTS250?

[MrGrumpy]

I can only assume your MOT tester was awake this time, and asleep previously! Very odd..

[OneFootInTheGravy]

Is it the GTS250?

Ha ha, I get asked that a lot (by people who know their Vespas that is)

No, it is definitely the 300. It must have been a pre-reg or something because I know they didn't hit the UK roads until the 09 plate.

[SuperGordini]

my beverly has a rear reflector... i was gonna take it off, never knew it would be an MOT failure without it... thanks for the heads up

[newscooter]

Reflectors used to be built into the rear light cluster, perhaps they have to be separate now ?

[StephenC]

Apparently there should be TWO rear reflectors.

4.8.1. Presence, condition and operation
You must inspect the 2 mandatory red rear reflectors that must be fitted.
Rear reflectors are not required on vehicles not fitted with front and rear position lamps, or have such lamps permanently disconnected, painted over or masked that are: only used during daylight hours, and not used at times of seriously reduced visibility.
Reflective tape is not an acceptable substitute for a rear reflector.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mot-inspect ... tion-4-8-1

According to How Many Left there 242 Vespa 300GTS Super registered in 2008 and still on the road (none SORN'd)

[iansoady]

That's for cars. This is for bikes: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mot-inspect ... -equipment - note 4.8.1.

[StephenC]

That's for cars. This is for bikes: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/mot-inspect ... -equipment - note 4.8.1.

[OneFootInTheGravy]

Reflectors used to be built into the rear light cluster, perhaps they have to be separate now ?

it has got said reflector in the centre of the light cluster but the MOT guy said that it didn't count?