The new motorcycle test
The new motorcycle test aims to improve the standard of
road safety for motorcycle and moped riders. This user
group has been identified as having a high risk of injury or
death, this is particularly the case for young and
inexperienced riders.
The new test will be completed in two modules. The specified
manoeuvres conducted at specific speeds will be tested in
Module 1 on safe off-road sites and take on average 11
minutes.
These specified manoeuvres are:
- Pushing the Bike backwards into a parking Bay
- A Slalom Exercise.
- A Figure of Eight Exercise.
- A swerve exercise avoiding an obstacle at a minimum speed of 50 km/h (approx. 32 mph)
- A 'U' turn exercise. ( Approx - 7.5 metres)
- A slow control riding exercise for approx 17.5 metres
- An emergency braking exercise at a minimum speed of 50 km/h (approx. 32 mph)
On the day of the Module 1 test, candidates will be asked
by the examiner to demonstrate their riding ability on
either the left-hand or right-hand circuit. Please note
that the standard off-road layout may change due to local
conditions on the casual sites.
Those candidates who have passed Module 1 will receive a
Test Pass Certificate which they must bring with them when
they take Module 2.
Module 2 of the test will be about 35 - 40 minutes in length and
will consist of the eyesight test, road safety questions and
a road ride. consisting of a variety of road and traffic conditions and
will also include normal stops, hill and angled starts.
The practical moped riding test
The practical moped riding test (which does not
include the high-speed requirements) will also be carried
out in two modules. The obstacle avoidance and
emergency braking exercises will be carried out in Module 1
at 30 km/h (approx. 19 mph).
The practical Test must be
taken on a Bike of between 121cc & 125cc and must be capable of at least
100 kph. After passing your Test by this ‘Standard’ route, you will be
restricted for 2 years to riding a bike of no more than 33bhp. This does
not mean you are restricted to a 125, in effect you can ride any Bike you
like but it must be restricted to 33bhp. On completion of your 2 years,
you will automatically be entitled to ride a bike of any capacity. If you
are aged between 17 – 20 this is the only Test option for you. If you are
aged 21 or over, you may opt for the Direct Access scheme (DAS).