The new Historical Vehicle Regulationswhich we already told you about at the time and which came into force on October 1, 2024, modernizes a regulation that had been without significant changes for more than 30 years. Its main objective is to preserve automotive cultural heritage, including cars, motorcycles and other classic vehicles, through stricter originality requirements, better classification processes and specific rules for their use and maintenance.
According to the normal itself: “Historical vehicles will be considered those manufactured or registered for the first time at least 30 years ago. They will also be those included in the General Inventory of Movable Property of the Spanish Historical Heritage, or declared of cultural interest and those that are of special interest.”.
Among the main novelties are the obligation to preserve the original state of the vehicle, a simplified procedure for motorcycles and cars registered in Spain, and changes in the frequency and requirements of the ITV. In addition, the aim is to limit the daily use of these vehicles to protect their historical value, encouraging their enjoyment at special events or exhibitions.
As a matter of fact, according to figures from the Observatory of the DGTuntil the end of 2021 there were 44,435 vehicles registered as historic in Spain. Currently, the average annual registrations are around 1,163 vehicles. However, with the implementation of the new Regulation, a significant increase is expected, exceeding 5,000 new registrations per year. This could lead to reaching 100,000 historic vehicles registered in the first year of the regulations.
Classifying a car or motorcycle as a historic vehicle offers various tax and practical advantages, which motivates many owners of classic motorcycles to carry out this procedure. However, until now, this process was complex, expensive and slow due to the requirements of the 1995 Regulation, which represented a significant barrier for many interested parties.
Requirements to classify a motorcycle as historic
Motorcycles must meet similar conditions to other historical vehicles, with some specific nuances:
- Minimum age: 30 years from its manufacture or first registration.
- Originality: The motorcycle must retain its initial configuration, without relevant modifications to the engine, chassis, suspension system or original aesthetics.
- Cessation of production: The model must have been discontinued.
- State of conservation: It must be in good mechanical and aesthetic condition, without alterations that compromise its historical value. A certain margin is allowed for modern spare parts, as long as they do not alter significant technical data.
Administrative classification
As with cars, the regulations establish two procedures for motorcycles:
- Abbreviated procedure: For motorcycles registered in Spain with proper documentation.
- Ordinary procedure: For imported motorcycles, without documentation or out of circulation, which must obtain a historical registration after a detailed technical examination.
Changes in the MOT for historic motorcycles
Historic motorcycles have a special regime regarding technical inspections:
Reduced frequency: Motorcycles between 30 and 45 years old are required to undergo an MOT every four years. On the other hand, machines over 45 years old are exempt from MOT, except for a voluntary inspection.
Adapted tests: No brake test test required, nor standard tire limits. In addition, the use of old lighting and braking systems is permitted as long as they are in working order.
Restrictions on use of the new Historic Vehicle Regulations
The regulation limits the use of historic motorcycles to preserve their condition:
- Maximum speed: 80 km/h if they lack modern safety systems.
- Restricted use: They can circulate at events, concentrations, or sporadic trips, but they are not intended for daily use.
Benefits and opportunities of the new Historic Vehicle Regulations
This regulation benefits owners and enthusiasts, facilitating the conservation of classic motorcycles and promoting their appreciation as heritage assets. In addition, it seeks to promote a more active market in restaurants and exhibitions, resembling Spanish standards with those of other European countries.
In conclusion, the new regulation represents a significant advance in the regulation of historic motorcycles, balancing technical requirements, safety and respect for their legacy. This ensures that classic motorcycles can continue to be admired and used responsibly, protecting their cultural value.
