The freedom of the open road – on two wheels!
Introduction: the benefits of motorcycling
People come to motorcycling for many different reasons. Maybe you’re fed up of car commuting and you feel the need to turn a humdrum daily slog into something more enjoyable. Perhaps you’re looking to improve your car driving skills. Perhaps you are the chap who suddenly realises that all his friends are going on a weekend motorcycle trip and you’re the one missing out because you don’t ride. Or you might have been a passenger for years on your husband’s bike and you have decided that the time is right to ride one of your own. Maybe you have decided to re-live your youth because you spotted a teenager on a dirt bike? Or, on nothing but an impulse, you have seen a glistening new sports bike in the shop window and you decide, with no warning, that you simply must have it!
These are all fairly typical examples of what brings people to motorcycling. But, whatever your reasons for getting involved, there are certain hurdles you’ll have to jump in order to gain the freedom a licence is sure to bring.
Basic Training
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) was introduced in 1990 in an attempt to help reduce the high collision rate among inexperienced motorcyclists. You must complete CBT before you are allowed to ride on the road with L-plates (or D-plates in Wales).
If you obtained your car licence before 1 February 2001, you do not need to complete a CBT to ride a moped.
The CBT course involves five elements, including a classroom introduction, practical on-site and on-road training, on-site riding and a minimum of two hours’ practical on-road riding. The five elements have to be completed in a specific sequence, although the order of the exercises within the element can be varied. You will only move on to the next element when your instructor is satisfied you have learnt the necessary theory and demonstrated the practical skills to a safe basic level.
The Theory Test
Once you have a provisional licence, you will need to think about taking the theory test. Having a car licence no longer exempts you from the requirement to take a motorcycle theory test. The Driving Standards Agency has web pages dedicated to practice theory tests (www.theory-tests.co.uk). Registering costs £6.99. Other motorcycling sites have free practice tests. Once you have passed the theory test, you have up to two years to complete the practical test.
The direct route to a full licence
Direct access is a scheme which allows you to avoid the two year/25 kW restriction by taking a test on a machine of at least 35 kW (46.6 bhp). You must be at least 21 years old to take part in this scheme. A pass allows you to ride any size of bike. Any instruction given on a machine that exceeds the normal learner motorcycle specification must be supervised at all times by a certified motorcycle instructor who should be in radio contact. You should also wear fluorescent or reflective clothing and follow all other provisional licence restrictions.
The restricted route to a licence
This is the only course option if you are aged under 21. You would typically learn to ride and take a test on a 125cc machines. Once you pass your test, your licence allows you to ride any size of bike provided it is limited to 33bhp for the first two years after passing. After the two years have elapsed, you can ride any power machine without taking a further test, or even sending your licence off.
Mopeds
If you want to ride a moped you can take your theory test when you are 16, but again you must make sure you have a valid provisional licence.
If you are 16 and already have a provisional licence for an agricultural vehicle or a moped, this will give you provisional entitlement to drive a car when you are 17.
Safety tips
Invest in the best protective gear and helmet you can afford. Wearing tough clothing is always a smart move, as there’s very little between you and the tarmac.
Pick a high-quality helmet that fits well.
Remember that bright colours will help other road users see you more easily.
Think: most everyday riders reach their skill limits long before their bikes do. Know your own limits, and never put yourself under pressure to ride faster or harder than you’re comfortable with. Too many crashes occur because a rider has run out of time, space or talent!
Frequently asked questions
The test has changed recently, hasn’t it. So what’s involved?
The new test, which went ‘live’ in April 2009, is completed in two modules. Specified manoeuvres, conducted at specific speeds, are tested in Module 1 on safe off-road sites.
Module 2 of the test is made up of the eyesight test, road safety questions and typically takes between 30 to 40 minutes of road riding. This covers a variety of road and traffic conditions and also including normal stops, hill and angle starts.
I already have a car licence. Doesn’t that exempt me from the theory test?
No. You will need to pass the motorcycle theory test before you complete your practical training.
What’s involved with the theory test?
For motorcycles (as for cars), you'll be asked 50 questions in 57 minutes and the pass mark is 43 out of 50.
How can I prepare for the theory test?
To prepare for the theory test, the Driving Standards Agency (DSA) recommends that all candidates study the Highway Code, Know Your Traffic Signs and the relevant book from DSA's Driving Skills series. Regardless of driving experience, you should make full use of the available study material to prepare for the multiple choice and hazard perception elements of the theory test.
Motorbike clothing seems very expensive. Would jeans do, by and large, for protection?
The only piece of safety equipment that is required by law is a suitable helmet. For any other equipment there are no specific requirements, but you would foolish to make do with jeans. Proper suits (one-piece or two-piece) and gloves will help protect your skin if you fall.
What is the definition of a moped?
A moped has a maximum design speed not exceeding 50km/h (approx 31 mph). It has an engine capacity no greater than 50cc. If first used before 1 August 1977, it can be moved by pedals.
My son is 19 and has ridden a moped for two years. Does this now mean he can ride a motorbike of any size?
No. He is too young. A rider under 21 can only pass the test on a category ‘A’ bike (between 121-125cc and capable of 100kmph), and will be restricted to bikes up to 25kW with a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.16kW/kg for two full years.
DISCLAIMER
The information on this Site is provided on the understanding that GEM Motoring Assist is not rendering legal or other advice. You should consult your own professional advisers as to legal or other advice relevant to any action you wish to take in connection with this website.