Starting over

[Hagar]

I first rode bikes in the late 60's when a learner bike was a 250cc. I had a T250 suzuki super six, good for about 90mph which I rode on learner plates. I also had a 1959 650cc triumph thunderbird which I rode illegally not having passed a motorcycle test although I had a full car licence.
In about 1975 I gave up biking as I was working away and driving long distances.

I had a ride on a nephews 125 Aprilia and it was as if I had never stopped riding (like a duck to water). I was up to speed in the first few yards, hand eye foot coordination all good. Since then I have had a bit of practice.

I want to buy a mid sized 28 - 30bhp 500-650cc old brit bike and need to pass a motorcycle test for it the simplest way. Preferably without the need to buy a 125 learner. I understand I need to do the CBT, but what is the next step, I am 58 and have had a full car licence since 1970.

cheers, andy.

 

[Morbius]

Once you have done the CBT you can ride a 125 on L plates. Although it sounds like you'd be looking at going straight on to getting ready for the test. Regardless, the next thing you'll need to sort out is passing the theory test. There 50 multiple choice questions and a hazard perception test; the hazard perception is a series of video clips where you have to click the screen when you notice a hazard. The best way to prepare is to get a DVD for your computer with the practice questions and practice hazard perception clips.

Once you have a CBT certificate and a theory test pass, you can go on to the first of two practical modules. Module 1 consists of slow speed and emergency manouevers and this takes place in a test centre. This consists of a slalom, figure of eight, emergency stop, u turn, slow ride and the avoidance/swerve test.

When you pass module 1, you can take module 2, which is the familiar on-the-road test. Pass this and you can take the L plates off!

As you are over 19 you can do what is known as "direct access", where you can take the test on a bike with at least a 500cc engine and you'll be able to ride any bike you fancy afterwards. Learners under 19, or those who aren't confident about using the bigger bikes, can opt to do the tests on a 125, which restricts them to a bike of 25kW (33hp) afterwards.

I hope I've managed to give a reasonable outline of the test.

 

[Hagar]

Superb, Much clearer that the gov.uk website, thanks. Can start looking for a 500cc midweight.

CBT on a test centre 125cc
Theory test
Module 1
Module 2
Both on a 500cc bike.

If the bike is older, will I still be able to use hand signalling on a test as it may not be equipped with flashing indicators etc?

 

[Mucky_Pup]

I'd get your theory test booked and done first personally, lots of places will included CBT in if you buy a DAS course, then when you rock up at the training place they can get your CBT done, and you might be able to get you straight on for a Mod 1 test, if you don't have your theory you'll have to go away and come back when you do.

And it'll be highly unlikely you'd do your tests on an old bike, most places you'll be doing it on the likes of Honda CBF500's etc.