Completing motorcycle training to gain your motorcycle licence in Bournemouth can often seem like a complicated process, but we’re here to make completing your motorcycle training as easy as possible. We have a number of training schools in Bournemouth and the surrounding areas that will see you gain your full motorcycle licence in no time.
The path to gaining your full motorcycle licence can seem complicated, and depending on your age you may have to take several tests over several years. Here’s how it breaks down.
Age 16
This is the earliest you can ride a motorcycle or scooter in the UK. At the very least you can complete the CBT (Compulsory Basic Training). This will allow you to ride a bike with an engine capacity no greater than 50cc, and a top speed of 28mph. Your CBT test in Bournemouth will only take a day and you don’t need any prior riding experience. You’ll have to display L-plates on the front and rear of your machine, and you won’t be allowed to carry passengers or ride on motorways.
You can also pass your theory test and take a two module practical test (off-road and on-road), which will permit you to shed the L-plates, carry a passenger and ride on motorways. This is the AM licence.
Age 17-18
Once again the quickest way to two wheels is via the CBT, except you can ride bikes upto 125cc, with a maximum power output of 11kW. There is no speed restriction. Much like the AM licence, you can choose to shed the L-plates, passenger and motorway restrictions by completing your theory test and two-part practical test to gain the A1 license.
Age 19-23
This is where it starts to get a little more exciting. From the age of 19 you’ll be able to take your motorcycle test for the A2 licence. As with the other tests, this is comprised of your theory test (which lasts two years) and a two-part practical test spread over two days. Once you complete those you will be allowed to ride a bike with any engine capacity. However, the bike must produce no more than 35kW for the two years following your test. Once you’ve completed those two years, you will be free to ride any bike with any power output.
Direct Access Scheme
The Direct Access Scheme, commonly known as DAS, is the motorcycle test which can be taken by those 24 and older. The Direct Access test must be completed on a motorcycle with a minimum power output of 40kW. If you pass your motorcycle test before the age of 24, the bikes you will be allowed to ride will be restricted depending on your age, but with the Direct Access you will be allowed to ride any bike upon completion. No engine capacity or power restrictions.