Newbie Trike Questions

[eric1884]

Hi there

New to the forum and thinking of getting a trike, probably a project as budget is limited. Ridden bikes in the past and also built a kit car a few years ago so, although not an expert, I know my way around a spanner …. I think.

Anyway. I’m in conversation with someone about their trike, brief details as follows:

- 1300cc VW back end, Japanese front end. Built from scratch, not a kit. V5 still shows as Beetle car, first reg 1973. Never changed to a trike.

- However, MOT history shows as a VW trike, last MOT expired 2014. Don’t think it’s ever been used on a public road.

Q - What hoops would I have to navigate to get the thing on the road and legal?

I’ve read on Gov website about MSVA but that seems to suggest the trike needs to be under 10 years old, so not sure that’s an option. Unless I’m being thick on vehicle age & dates.

Q - Is it all too much trouble?

Any thoughts would be appreciated. TIA.

[Kawazuki]

As an MSVA test is required to re-register a vehicle / change its classification, I don't see what difference its age makes! Whenever it was built / assembled, its the date it is tested that matters. Whether it makes sense to do it only for you to answer, but not being registered as a trike should be a negotiation chip to lower the price as a test does involve money, time and travel to testing centre (which aren't too common)

[Deep Diver]

Walk away from it

[eric1884]

Thanks both for your thoughts.

Re’ age I was confused by the MSVA Eligibility criteria, as taken directly from the Gov website:

Eligibility for MSVA

You can use the MSVA scheme for vehicles that:

- are under 10 years old
- have not been registered before in the UK
- do not have ECWVTA or provisional UK vehicle type approval

As you say Deep Diver, maybe it’s best to walk away ….

[lepchaun]

if its dont say tricycle on v5 its a project it will need msva testing

[Deep Diver]

Here are some of the crap you need to look out for.







Its posted as
Good project for someone.

Reliant Custom trike
Honda CX500 front end, Reliant chassis, 850cc Metro engine.

Check the reg number with Gov.uk site and its

RELIANT 3 wheels not been Mot since Oct 2012

That chassis is not Reliant but one somebody has built in a shed

[Kawazuki]

That is the sort of 'shite' that the DVLA should be jumping all over! I'd love to see what of the complete 'ensemble' is actually Reliant to retain its plate! Plus the angle of those driveshafts means they'll be a annual service replacement item LOL!

[AngeloftheAbyss]

Looks great

[eric1884]

Bloody hell! That’s one good looking machine

Thanks all for the additional info. Some food for thought before I jump in and part with cash.