What does the practical motorcycle test involve?
FAQ >>

The motorcycle test is now a 2 part (modules) test, carried out at seperate times. The module 1 test must be passed before you can sit the module 2 test. A video of the tests can be seen online by clicking Motorcycle test video

The Module 1 test.

The examiner will introduce himself and perform a licence and identification check, when you must produce your valid licence (both parts), theory test certificate and CBT certificate.

You will then be asked to go to your bike, and then to ride it onto the MMA (motorcycle manoeuvring area). The manoeuvring area is set up as 2 circuits, a left and right circuit. You can see a diagram of the circuits by clicking MMA Circuit Diagram please note the avoidance swerve is not anywhere as severe as shown on the diagram. The only way to properly prepare for this test is under the guidance of an experienced instructor.

You will then perform the following manoeuvres;

• Park your bike on it's stand.
• Manual handle the bike, pushing it into another parking bay.
• Ride a slalom and then 2 complete figures of eight.
• Ride a bend, avoid at speed and then controlled stop.
• Ride a U-Turn.
• A slow (walking) pace ride.
• An emergency stop.

The avoidance manoeuvre and emergency stop must both be carried out at least 50 Kph (aprox 32 mph). If you fail to reach the speed on either of these, but have otherwise carried it out satisfactorily, you will get one more attempt at it. Failure to reach the required speed twice is an automatic failure.

The test lasts about 10 - 15 minutes, and upon successful completion you will be given a Module 1 Pass Certificate.

The Module 2 test

The examiner will introduce himself and perform a licence and identification check, then help the candidate with the fitting of the radio and earpiece.

While accompanying the candidate to the machine there will be an eyesight check.

The candidate will be asked 2 machine safety check questions, and a question on carrying a passenger, then the examiner will explain how the test will be conducted and how the radio equipment works.

The examiner will then ask the candidate to get ready while he goes to his own vehicle, which may be a car or motorcycle. He will do a radio test, and then ask you to move away, while he will follow.

During the test specific manoeuvres may be carried which include;

• A Hill Start.
• An angled start, where you you be stopped close to an obstruction, such as a parked car, and asked to proceed going safely around the obstruction.
• Pulling into the side of the road, and rejoining traffic

The test will have lasted about 45 minutes, of which 35 - 40 will have been on the road. If you pass and have a photocard licence, the examiner will ask if you want him to send your licence away. Most people are happy with that, and the new licence should arrive within a couple of weeks. If you have the old style licence, you will be given it back, with the pass certificate, and the forms for applying for the new licence.