87113000
VEHICLES OTHER THAN RAILWAY OR TRAMWAY ROLLING STOCK, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES THEREOF›Motorcycles (including mopeds) and cycles fitted with an auxiliary motor, with or without side-cars; side-cars
With internal combustion piston engine of a cylinder capacity exceeding 250 cm³ but not exceeding 500 cm³
Subcodes (2)
Classification of motorcycles 250-500 cc CN 871130
CN code 871130 covers motorcycles with reciprocating piston engines with a cylinder capacity exceeding 250 cc but not exceeding 500 cc. This segment includes mid-range sport, touring, naked, and adventure motorcycles. An A2 (from 18 years, power up to 35 kW) or A (from 24 years or 20 years with A2 experience) driving licence is required in the EU. Motorcycles in this capacity range offer a good balance between performance and running costs, making them a popular choice among riders. Import follows standard customs procedures, and duty rates should be verified in the TARIC or ISZTAR system. Vehicles must hold valid EU type approval and meet the Euro 5 emission standard.
Import and type-approval requirements
Motorcycles with 250-500 cc engines imported into the EU must meet the full requirements of EU Regulation 168/2013. Mandatory ABS, Euro 5 emission standard, OBD on-board diagnostics, and compliance with UNECE safety regulations are required. Importing motorcycles from third countries requires type approval - either EU type approval issued by an approval authority, or individual approval in the country of registration. The customs value includes the purchase price, sea or overland transport costs, and insurance to the EU border. Motorcycles imported as used vehicles follow the same customs procedures as new ones, but their customs value reflects technical condition and mileage. Racing motorcycle imports not intended for road use may be subject to different approval requirements.
Mid-range motorcycle market in Europe
The 250-500 cc motorcycle segment is growing in Europe, driven by increasing popularity of adventure and naked motorcycles. Models such as KTM 390 Duke, Honda CB500F, Kawasaki Ninja 400, and Yamaha MT-03 are popular choices. Japanese imports still dominate, but manufacturers from India (Royal Enfield, Bajaj) and China offering competitively priced motorcycles are gaining market share. European manufacturers - KTM, Husqvarna - compete strongly in this segment with technologically advanced motorcycles. The trend towards power restriction to 35 kW (A2 licence requirement) influences vehicle design in this segment. The used motorcycle market is very active, particularly for training motorcycles.
Motorcycles 250-500 cc - mid-range segment
Importing motorcycles 250-500 cc (CN 8711 30) into the EU requires two/three-wheel vehicle type-approval (EU) 168/2013. The MFN rate for motorcycles is 6% or 8% depending on engine size. Customs clearance requires an EORI number and a correct declaration. Preferential rates may apply under FTAs such as EU-Korea, EU-Japan EPA, or CETA. National import VAT is charged at the destination Member State rate.
Frequently asked questions
What licence is required for a 400 cc motorcycle?
An A2 category licence (from 18 years, power up to 35 kW / 0.2 kW/kg) or A category licence (from 24 years or from 20 years after 2 years of A2 experience) is required for a 400 cc motorcycle. If the motorcycle exceeds 35 kW, category A is necessary. Many manufacturers offer motorcycles in power-restricted versions limited to 35 kW, enabling A2 licence holders to ride with the option to derestrict later when the full A licence is obtained.
Does importing a racing motorcycle require type approval?
A racing motorcycle not intended for road use does not require road vehicle type approval. However, it must be imported as goods not suitable for road registration. If the racing motorcycle is to be registered for road use, it must undergo full individual type approval meeting all safety and emission requirements. The tariff classification remains the same - CN code 871130 applies regardless of the vehicle's intended use.
Is ABS mandatory for 250-500 cc motorcycles?
Yes, all new motorcycles with engine capacity exceeding 125 cc, including 250-500 cc motorcycles, must be equipped with ABS under EU Regulation 168/2013. The requirement has applied since 2017 for new vehicles. Importing motorcycles without ABS is non-compliant with EU regulations for new vehicle types. Enduro and trial motorcycles intended for off-road use may be subject to exemptions under specific conditions defined in the regulation.
What requirements apply when importing motorcycles 250-500 cc CN 8711 30?
Importing motorcycles 250-500 cc (CN 8711 30) requires two/three-wheel vehicle type-approval (EU) 168/2013, an EORI number and customs declaration. The MFN rate for motorcycles is 6% or 8% depending on engine size. Import VAT applies.
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