Motorbike Test

[admarlow]

I am 24 and have had a full driving licence for 6 years. What tests do I have to do to ride a motorbike, and then what size engine am I allowed?

[SaxyJag]

Some really useful info here:

http://www.mcia.co.uk/S_Public/passtest.asp

Also, these people are the bee's knees for general bike advice:

http://www.bmf.co.uk/rts/index1.html

[essexbiker]

You need to do a Direct Access Scheme, you will take your test on a 500cc bike and then you can ride any bike you like.

[carfurn]

you will need to pass a dsa theory test. www.carfurn.co.uk

[johngraham]

All learner motorcycle and moped riders must complete a compulsory basic training (CBT) course before riding on the road.
If you want to ride a motorcycle you must apply for a provisional motorcycle licence and then complete a CBT course.

Full motorcycle licence

The practical test must be taken on a bike of between 75 cc and 125 cc. There are two types of full motorcycle licence:
a light motorcycle licence (A1), which restricts riders to any bike up to 125 cc and a power output of 11 kw
a standard motorcycle licence (A), is obtained if the practical test is taken on a bike of over 120 cc but not more than 125 cc and capable of at least 100 kilometres per hour (km/h)
After passing the standard motorcycle practical test, you will be restricted for two years to riding a bike of up to 25 kw and a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.16 kw/kg. After this you may ride any size of bike.

Direct access

After taking Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) and the theory test, the practical test may be taken on a motorcycle with a power output of at least 35 kw. A pass allows you to ride any size of bike. All or part of the CBT course may be taken on either a learner bike or a large bike. To practice for the practical test on bikes larger than the learner bike specification you must:
be accompanied at all times by an approved instructor on another bike and in radio contact
wear fluorescent or reflective clothing
follow all other provisional licence restrictions

Accelerated access

Riders who reach the age of 21, while still within the two year period where they are restricted to maximum 25 kw machines, but who wish to ride larger bikes need to pass a further test on a motorcycle of at least 35 kw. They may practice on bikes over 25 kw under the same practice conditions for direct access riders. You will revert to learner status while practicing (on a motorcycle greater than 25 kw) although test failure will not affect your existing licence.


Sources: http://www.theory-tes...le_practical_test.asp