ABS on
motorcycles mandatory
If you are a rider or importer you need to know about the changes to the
Land Transport Rule: Light-vehicle Brakes 2002
From 1 April 2020
All new model new motorcycles over 125cc must have an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
All new model new motorcycles up to and including 125cc must have either an Anti-lock Braking
System (ABS) or a Combined Braking System (CBS).
From 1 November 2021
All current model new motorcycles and imported used motorcycles over 125cc must have an
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
All current model new motorcycles and imported used motorcycles up to and including 125cc must
have either an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) or a Combined Braking System (CBS).
What about existing motorcycles?
Previous and currently registered motorcycles are not required to be retrofitted with ABS.
How can I check if my motorcycle is compliant?
MOTORCYCLE TYPE FROM 1 APR 2020 FROM 1 NOV 2021
New model, new motorcycle larger than 125cc
New model, new motorcycle up to and including 125cc
Current model, new motorcycle larger than 125cc
Current model, new motorcycle up to and including 125cc
Must have ABS
Must have ABS or CBS
Must have ABS
Must have ABS or CBS
Registered existing model, existing motorcycle larger than 125cc No action required No action required
Registered existing model, existing motorcycle up to and including 125cc No action required No action required
Imported used larger than 125cc
Imported used up to and including 125cc
Must have ABS
Must have ABS or CBS
Trial and Enduro motorcycles primarily used off-road or at events are exempt No action required No action required
For more information
Visit: www.nzta.govt.nz/abs-changes