Facing £100 fine over uninsured motorbike - can I appeal?

I received a letter from the DVLA dated 4 September when I returned form holiday on the 11 September. It stated that I had failed to insure my motorbike, although it was taxed.

I immediately insured the bike the next day, as my understanding is that as long as the bike wasn't on the road, I was complying with the law. I have now received another letter stating that because it wasn't insured I will have to pay a fine of £100.

On looking back I see that I was supposed to pay £50 and insure the bike, however I wasn't in the country at the time of this letter and thought I only had to insure the bike. This letter was also the 1st I'd heard of this and I can't say I understand what I'm being fined for as the bike has never been on the road this year due to ill health.

I would like to dispute this, can you please advise. I immediately insured the bike the next day, as my understanding is that as long as the bike wasn't on the road, I was complying with the law.

Asked on 25 October 2014 by Lolarat

Answered by Honest John
Your understanding was wrong. This explains: www.gov.uk/vehicle-insurance/uninsured-vehicles/

A vehicle either has to be on a SORN, or has to be taxed and continuously insured. Just pay the fine.
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