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Can We Use a Bike After 15 Years? Here’s What Every Rider in India Should Know

Ever wondered if you can keep riding your bike after it turns 15? With new two-wheeler prices climbing every year, many Bengaluru riders want to get the most out of their machines-whether it’s a daily commuter or a prized Royal Enfield Classic 350. But what actually happens when your bike crosses that 15-year mark? Is it legal, practical, or even worth it? Let’s break it down.

What Happens to Your Bike After 15 Years in India?

By law, every private two-wheeler in India is registered for 15 years from the date of purchase. After that, you can’t just keep riding as usual. You must renew your Registration Certificate (RC) and get a Fitness Certificate (FC) from the RTO to prove your bike is still roadworthy.

  • Apply for re-registration at your local RTO before your RC expires.
  • Submit your bike for a fitness test (emissions, safety, and mechanical checks).
  • If your bike passes, you get a renewed RC and FC for another 5 years.
  • You must have valid insurance and a Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate for renewal

Can You Really Use a Bike After 15 Years?

Yes, you can use your bike after 15 years-but only if you complete the re-registration and fitness certification process. Skipping this means riding an unregistered vehicle, which is illegal and can lead to heavy fines or even your bike being seized.

  • Valid insurance (mandatory for re-registration)
  • PUC certificate
  • All taxes and fees paid up (including any green tax)

What Does It Cost to Renew a 15-Year-Old Bike in Bangalore?

Let’s say you own a KTM 390 Duke or a Royal Enfield Classic 350 that’s now 15 years old and registered in Bangalore. Here’s what you can expect at renewal time:

  • 1. RC Renewal Fee:
  • For motorcycles: ₹300 (as per latest RTO fee schedule)
  • 2. Green Tax:
  • Currently, Karnataka charges a flat green tax of ₹500 for two-wheelers at the time of re-registration, regardless of the bike’s value.
  • In some other states, the green tax can be as high as 50% of your original road tax, which could mean paying ₹17,500–₹20,000 for high-end bikes if policies change.
  • 3. Fitness Certificate & Inspection Fees:
  • Fitness Certificate: ₹500
  • Inspection/Test Fee: ₹200–₹500
  • 4. Total Renewal Cost (Bangalore, 2025 Estimate):
  • RC Renewal Fee: ₹300
  • Green Tax: ₹500
  • Fitness Certificate: ₹500
  • Inspection/Test Fee: ₹500
  • Total: ₹1,800 (approximate; actual costs may vary by RTO and year)

Why does this matter?

If your KTM or Royal Enfield isn’t in top shape, you might need additional repairs at a bike repair shop near you just to pass the fitness test-adding to your renewal costs. For many, these expenses are a tipping point to upgrade to a newer, certified used bike from BeepKart.

Why Keeping a 15-Year-Old Bike Roadworthy Gets Tough

1. Passing the Fitness Test

Older bikes often struggle to meet emission and safety standards. Common issues include:

  • Failing emission tests
  • Engine leaks or excessive noise
  • Worn brakes, tires, or suspension
  • Faulty lights or electricals

2. Paperwork and Process

Re-registration means paperwork, RTO visits, and fees. Missing documents or lapsed insurance can make things complicated.

3. Higher Running Costs

With age, bikes need more frequent repairs and maintenance. Insurance premiums may also be higher for older vehicles.

Can I Sell or Repair My Bike After 15 Years?

You can still get your bike fixed at a bike repair shop near me or a bike repair store near me to keep it roadworthy after 15 years. However, if your bike can’t pass the fitness test, you may have to scrap it or sell it for parts.

  • The new owner will also need to renew the RC and FC.
  • Most buyers prefer bikes with a valid fitness certificate and up-to-date paperwork.

How to Keep Your Bike Fit for the Fitness Test

  • Regular servicing: Stick to the maintenance schedule and use trusted service centers.
  • Timely repairs: Don’t ignore small issues-fix them before they become big problems.
  • Keep documents updated: Always have valid insurance, PUC, and RC.
  • Pre-inspection: Before the RTO fitness test, get your bike checked at a reputable bike repair shop near you.

Should You Renew or Upgrade?

For many riders, the costs and hassle of keeping a 15-year-old bike on the road just aren’t worth it-especially with frequent repairs and stricter RTO checks. That’s why a lot of Bangaloreans are choosing to upgrade to a newer, certified used bike from BeepKart. You get:

  • A professionally inspected bike
  • Warranty on engine and transmission
  • Hassle-free RC transfer
  • 3-day return window for peace of mind

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