Full Breakdown
James May Settles Legal Issue Over Motorcycle Insurance
3/26/2026, 11:13:42 PM
Legal Proceedings Against James May
Former Top Gear presenter James May faced legal action from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) regarding his vintage Suzuki GT750 motorcycle, which allegedly did not meet insurance requirements. The charge stemmed from an incident on July 17, 2022, when May was accused of keeping the motorcycle without proper insurance coverage. On Thursday morning, May arrived at Lavender Hill Magistrates' Court in South London by bicycle, dressed in an orange shirt and coat that matched his motorcycle. However, he did not appear before magistrates, as the case was settled out of court before reaching trial.
Details of the Settlement
The settlement concluded the legal matter without a formal court hearing. Prosecutors confirmed that May resolved the issue outside of court, allowing him to avoid a trial. The specifics of the settlement have not been disclosed, and the DVLA has not provided further information regarding the case.
Background on James May
James May, 63, is best known for his role on the BBC's Top Gear, where he co-hosted alongside Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond from 2003 until 2015. The trio later reunited for The Grand Tour on Amazon Prime Video, which aired from 2016 to 2024. May has expressed that 2025 will be a busy year for him, as he transitions to new projects, including speaking engagements and television series. He also co-owns The Royal Oak pub in Swallowcliffe, Wiltshire, which he has struggled to make profitable.
Criticism & Opposition
While May has enjoyed a successful career in television, he has faced challenges in his business ventures. He remarked on the difficulties of running his pub, stating, “I have a pub, which is very nice, but it doesn’t make me any money and it never has.” This sentiment reflects the broader struggles many in the hospitality industry face, particularly in a challenging economic environment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He added: “I have a pub, which is very nice, but it doesn’t make me any money and it never has.” — James May, Presenter
What's Next for James May?
Following the resolution of this legal issue, May is expected to focus on his upcoming projects, including two television series and a live show tour in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. Additionally, there has been speculation about a potential reunion of the Top Gear trio, as producer Andy Wilman hinted at the possibility of collaboration in the future.
