Route To Riding

A guide to help you get on two wheels

A guide to help you get on two wheels - We give an explanation of the various types of license and the steps and modules required to obtain it. If you would like help please do not hesitate to contact us

Provisional Licence

You need a provisional Category A licence, either included in your full car licence or as part of a provisional licence.

Never Ridden Before?

We offer a 1 HOUR taster lesson for just £25.00.
Please Call 01324620111 (option 4) To Book. 

CBT

You must complete Compulsory Basic Training before you ride any moped, scooter or motorcycle on the road. If you have a full car licence issued before 1st February 2001 you may ride a restricted 50cc moped on the road without L plates (and carry a passenger), but you still need to pass your CBT Course to ride any motorcycle over 50cc.

Theory Test

You must pass a motorcycle theory test before taking any practical motorcycle test, even if you have a full car licence. But if you have passed a two part moped test or a lower category motorcycle test since 1st July 1996 you need not take the theory test. The Theory Test Pass Certificate is valid for 2 years.

A1 Licence

This course can be taken from the age of 17 on a 125cc motorcycle. On passing the test your licence would limit you to a 125cc motorcycle.

A2 Licence

 

This course can be taken from the age of 19. The training and tests must be taken on a machine of at least 245cc and have between 27 to 47bhp.

Upon passing your licence would restrict you to a bike of up to 47bhp.

A Licence Direct Access Scheme (DAS)

 

This course can be taken from the age of 24. The training and tests are taken on a motorcycle of at least 598cc and 53bhp. On passing, you gain full licence entitlement and can ride any motorcycle.

Progressive Access

 

Upgrading sub-category licence (A1 to A2 and A2 to A) courses are available.

Please call us to discuss your requirements.

Motorcycle candidates must always have a valid theory test certificate before taking their first practical motorcycle test. Unless they take the progressive access route, they must have a valid theory test certificate before taking any further practical motorcycle tests. A three-wheeled moped or motorcycle is only suitable for test if the distance measured between the centre of the area of contact with the road surface of the two wheels is less than 460mm (46cm). It’s likely that these vehicles won’t be suitable for test from 19 January 2013.

Q- Identify where you would check the engine oil level and tell me how you would check that the engine has sufficient oil. A- Identify where to check level, i.e. dipstick or sight glass. Explain that level should be between max and min marks. For dipstick remove dipstick and wipe clean, return and remove again to check oil level against max/min marks. For sight glass, ensure glass is clean when checking.
Q- Show me how you would check that the horn is working on this machine (off road only). A- Check is carried out by using control (turn on ignition if necessary).
Q- Identify where the brake fluid reservoir is and tell me how you would check that you have a safe level of hydraulic fluid. A- Identify reservoir, check level against high/low markings.
Q- Tell me how you would check that the lights and reflectors are clean and working. A- Explanation only: Operate switch (turn on ignition if necessary), identify reflectors. Check visually for cleanliness and operation.
Q- Show me how you would check that the brake lights are working. A- Operate brake, place hand over light or make use of reflections in windows, garage doors, etc, or ask someone to help.
Q- Tell me how you would check the condition of the chain on this machine. A- Check for chain wear, correct tension and rear wheel alignment. Tension should be adjusted as specified in the machine handbook. Drive chain should be lubricated to ensure that excessive wear does not take place.
Q- Show me what checks you would make on the steering movement before using the machine. A- Handlebars should be free to move smoothly from full left lock to full right lock without any control cables being stretched, trapped or pinched and without any snagging between moving and fixed parts.
Q- Tell me how you would check your tyres to ensure that they are correctly inflated, have sufficient tread depth and that their general condition is safe to use on the road. A- Correct tyre pressure settings can be found in the owner’s manual. Pressures should be checked using a reliable gauge. Tread depth must be at least 1mm deep, forming a continuous band at least ¾ of the breadth of the tread and all the way around. There should be no lumps, bulges or tears.
Q- Show me how you would check the operation of the front brake on this machine. A- Wheel the machine forward and apply the front brake.
Q- Show me how you would check the operation of the brakes on this machine. A- Check for excessive travel on the brake lever and the brake pedal and for unusual play or sponginess.
Q- Show me how you would check the operation of the engine cut out switch. A- Operate switch, without the engine being started.
Q- Show me how you would switch on the rear fog light and explain when you would use it (if fitted). A- Operate switch (turn on ignition and dipped headlights if necessary). Check warning light is on. Explain use.
Q- Show me how you switch your headlight from dipped to main beam. A- Operate switch (with ignition or engine on if necessary), check with main beam warning light.

Pillion Questions

Make sure they are wearing the correct clothing including an approved safety helmet. Make sure they sit on the bike astride, facing forwards with their feet on the foot pegs at all times. Tell them to only get on or off the bike when you instruct them to do so. Tell them were to hold - either to the rider or the grab rail. Lean with the rider and the bike into the corners. Don’t give any signals to other road users. Don’t fidget about.
Fold the foot pegs down. Adjust the mirrors up, as the back will squat down. Increase the tyre pressures according to the manufacturer’s advice (owner’s manual). Adjust the suspension according to the manufacturer’s advice (owner’s manual). Adjust the headlights according to the manufacturer’s advice (owner’s manual).
Acceleration is going to be affecting. On a more powerful bike the front could go light. Front wheel is going to be lighter. Therefore it will feel a little bit vague. Deceleration is affected. Stopping distances are going to increase. Cornering is going to be affected. Centre of gravity is higher therefore it is wise to go into corners slower. Get pillions to dismount before performing slow manoeuvres.

Further Training

Passing your test should not be the end of your training. Further training will help you ride more safely and enjoy being in control of your motorcycle. You can arrange a meeting with our instructors to discuss the various advanced riding options available.

CBT Compulsory Basic Training (Including bike hire/Insurance) £160

CBT Using your own bike £130

If you're buying a new or used bike from us you'll get a discounted CBT!

(BOTH Parts of Your Licence MUST be produced on the day)

There is also a Starter Pack available from selected clothing ranges in the shop for £249.99. This includes Helmet, jacket, trousers, boots and gloves.

Training Costs (per hour)

  • Intermediate Training including bike hire £50
  • Intermediate Training using your own bike £45

Advanced Riding

Tuition with RoSPA Gold Qualified instructor covering all aspects of advanced riding to consolidate and enhance your riding skills.

  • Half day (using your own bike) £150
  • Full day (using your own bike) £225

Training For Presentation to IAM or RoSPA Gold Test standard by arrangement.

Intensive Training Courses

This can be discussed and arranged once we have assessed your riding ability.

Instructor Training*

Interested in becoming an Instructor? We can train you at your own pace or you can opt for a 6 day course which will prepare you for presentation to the DSA's CBT Instructor Assessment at Cardington.

  • Cost of Instructor Training Course £950
  • (Use of own motorcycle and own fuel required)
*Instructor Training does NOT guarantee a Job at Jim Allan Motorcycles.
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