All You Need to Know About Buying a Road Legal Quad

Often called a 4-wheel motorcycle, the quad is used for both recreational and work purposes, with many farmers taking advantage of the clever design that allows them to carry out many tasks that would otherwise be very difficult. The vehicle’s design would be different for a working machine, as it needs to be able to carry objects, whereas a recreational quad would either be for one or two people, depending on its capabilities, and if you are thinking of buying a road legal quad, here are some important things to bear in mind.

Licence Requirements

If you happen to be in the UK, contrary to popular belief, you cannot drive a quad on the roads with a motorcycle licence, and must be in possession of a valid, full car driving licence. One can drive a quad on the roads if one has a B1 entitlement on a motorcycle licence, but otherwise, you must have a full UK car driving licence. If you do not intend to ride the machine on the public roads, then no licence is required, but bear in mind that even a short ride on public roads in order to reach private land means you must be licensed.

Do Quads need an MOT?

If you are planning to ride a quad on the roads, the vehicle will need an MOT, just like any other roadworthy vehicle, with the exception of a quad that is registered for agricultural or forestry use. If you would like to browse online, you can find a high quality road legal quad at Quadbikes R Us, the UK’s leading supplier of quality vehicles. Any quad that is less than three years old does not require an MOT certificate.

Vehicle Registration

If the vehicle is to be used on the public roads, it will need to have a V5C registration book (also known as a logbook), along with registration plates on both the front and rear of the vehicle. This can be obtained from the DVLA centre, and if you are only going to use the quad on private land, the vehicle does not need to be registered. If you would like to know more about the legality of quads in the UK, you can refer to the government website.

Vehicle Insurance

A quad must be insured (minimum of 3rd party) if you intend to use it on the roads, and this includes green lanes. Again, riding on private land does not require insurance, but you must have permission from the landowner.

Rider Training

Although by law you do not need to have any additional training other than passing a car driving licence, there are some handling issues when riding a quad. It is possible to rent a quad, and should you plan to buy one, it is recommended to try one out first, and any quad retailer would be able to tell you where you can rent one.

Of course, one must have common sense when riding a quad (whether on or off road) and although you are not required by law to wear a crash helmet, it is strongly advised at all times. You should also consider the type of clothing you wear, which should offer you adequate protection.