🏍️ Motorcycle VRT Calculator

Engine size-based rates with age reduction factors

Enter 0 for electric motorcycles
For electric bikes or high-performance bikes
For reference - VRT is engine size based
Additional Options

Based on official Revenue.ie VRT rates and calculation methods.

Motorcycle VRT Rates in Ireland

Motorcycle VRT is calculated differently from cars - it's based on engine size rather than purchase price or emissions, with age reduction factors applied.

Motorcycle VRT Rates by Engine Size

Engine Size VRT Rate (New) Example Amount
≤ 50cc €51 €51
51-125cc €102 €102
126-350cc €204 €204
351-500cc €408 €408
501-650cc €612 €612
> 650cc €816 €816

Age Reduction Factors

  • New (0-1 years): Full VRT rate
  • 1-2 years: 10% reduction
  • 3-5 years: 20% reduction
  • 6-10 years: 30% reduction
  • Over 10 years: 40% reduction

Example Calculations

Honda CBR600 (600cc, 3 years old)

  • Base VRT: €612 (501-650cc band)
  • Age reduction: 20%
  • Final VRT: €490

Yamaha MT-09 (900cc, new)

  • Base VRT: €816 (>650cc band)
  • Age reduction: 0% (new)
  • Final VRT: €816

Electric Motorcycles and E-bikes

Electric motorcycles have special VRT rules and may qualify for relief depending on their power and classification.

Electric Motorcycle Categories

  • E-bikes (≤4kW): Often VRT exempt
  • Electric scooters (4-11kW): Reduced VRT rates
  • Electric motorcycles (>11kW): Standard rates may apply

Popular Motorcycle Types

🏍️ Sport Bikes

Usually 600cc+ with high VRT rates. Examples: CBR, R6, Ninja

🛵 Scooters

Typically 50-250cc with lower VRT. Examples: Vespa, PCX

⚡ Electric

Zero emissions, may qualify for relief. Examples: Zero SR, Energica

🏁 Touring

Large engines 800cc+ with highest VRT. Examples: GS, Africa Twin

Motorcycle Import Tips

Documentation Needed

  • Certificate of Conformity or individual type approval
  • Original registration documents
  • Proof of purchase and payment
  • Valid insurance certificate
  • NCT certificate (if over 4 years old)

Common Import Scenarios

  • UK imports: Popular due to right-hand traffic compatibility
  • European imports: Good selection of models not sold in Ireland
  • Classic bikes: May qualify for reduced rates if over 30 years
  • Race bikes: Special rules may apply for track-only vehicles

Cost Considerations

  • VRT is much lower than cars (fixed rates vs. percentage)
  • Transport costs can be significant relative to bike value
  • Insurance and NCT still required
  • Consider total landing cost vs. Irish retail prices

Motorcycle VRT FAQs

How is motorcycle VRT different from car VRT?

Motorcycle VRT is based on engine size (cc), not purchase price or emissions. Rates are fixed amounts that reduce with age, making it simpler and usually cheaper than car VRT.

Do electric motorcycles pay VRT?

It depends on power and classification. Low-power e-bikes may be exempt, while high-power electric motorcycles may pay reduced rates or qualify for relief.

Can I get age reductions on motorcycle VRT?

Yes, age reductions apply: 10% for 1-2 years, 20% for 3-5 years, 30% for 6-10 years, and 40% for bikes over 10 years old.

Is VRT worth paying vs buying in Ireland?

For motorcycles, VRT is relatively low compared to cars. The decision often comes down to model availability and total import costs including transport.