Lot 67: 1974 DEMM at the Mathewsons December 2026 auction

What to check on any DEMM moped

• Find the frame number and engine number. Photograph both, and check that they look original, not re-stamped or ground. A small museum record of a 1963 DEMM shows the engine casing cast with the company name and Milan, and a separate engine plate, which gives an idea of what to expect.
• Ask what Italian paperwork came with the moped. Older Italian mopeds often carried a moped certificate rather than a full registration document; a buyer should ask for whatever original Italian document exists.
• Check engine capacity. GOV.UK says vehicles with an engine of 48cc or less can be registered without telling HMRC first. A 49 or 50cc moped will need a NOVA notification within 14 days of arrival, and DVLA will not register it until that is done.
• To register a used import, DVLA wants the original foreign registration document. If that is not available, it may accept a dating letter from the manufacturer or an enthusiast club. The VMCC notes that a European registration document is usable if it shows the make, the date and the frame number.
• An age-related UK number is issued where the machine can be dated. The VMCC's guidance for restored originals expects original frame, engine, gearbox, wheels and forks, although an engine change is allowed. A machine built up from mixed new and used parts is likely to receive a Q number and require an MSVA test.
• Note that DVLA's historic tax guidance says club dating certificates are not accepted to change an age already on the DVLA record; a manufacturer record or Glass's extract is required in that case.

Full DEMM moped buyer's guide →

Checks for this car

• Check its registration status in the UK.
• Check parts availability.