FAQ

What is NOVA?

NOVA stands for Notification of Vehicle Arrivals. Whenever a road-going vehicle is imported to the UK, the NOVA department of HMRC has to be given data about it – VIN, mileage, import date and so on. Once that has been provided and they are happy that import duty and VAT have been paid, they issue a NOVA number. When you register the vehicle with the DVLA, the DVLA checks the NOVA database to make sure it has a NOVA number: no imported vehicle can be registered without one. We put all our vehicles through the NOVA system within a fortnight of the ship docking in the UK.

Can I get parts for my vehicle?

This somewhat depends on the vehicle in question, but in general the answer is yes if you have bought it from us. If there are parts that are not available in the UK but are in Japan, we can source them. We have a staff of about 45 people in three locations in Japan, so we are usually able to find the part and either fly it in or send it in a container. Please note we are primarily a vehicle importer, not a parts importer, so we are not able to supply parts to the general public.

Do you deliver?

For motorcycles in the UK we usually deliver ourselves or use a specialist motorcycle delivery firm. For overseas shipping, the method depends on the country, but we can get bikes anywhere in the world.

How long does registration take and how much does it cost?

Our bikes are sold unregistered, but we offer a registration service and register about 90% of them on behalf of customers. To do this we need to obtain a dating certificate from a DVLA-accredited dating office, an MOT, registration with the DVLA and a plate. All this comes to £165 and usually takes about 6 weeks. (We have no influence over the DVLA, so this time frame is only a guideline.)

Do you offer a warranty?

All our motorcycles come with a three-month warranty. The only exceptions are project bikes, bikes sold “as is” and bikes over 30 years old. If you are unsure of a bike’s warranty status, please ask.

Can I ride a moped on my car licence?

You do not need to take compulsory basic training (CBT) to ride a moped if you passed your car driving test before 1 February 2001. You will still need to complete CBT to ride a motorbike, however. For more details please see the DVLA guidelines on GOV.UK.

Do you offer finance?

We don’t offer finance ourselves, but we’re happy to suggest some options. Get in touch and we will point you in the right direction.

How can I insure my vehicle?

There are a number of options for insuring a motorcycle. Many of our customers have existing policies to which new bikes can be added.

Many of our motorcycle customers use Bikesure.co.uk – our dealer reference number is G4217. Other insurers are available.

Still have a question?

Get in touch – we are always happy to help.