To gain your motorcycle licence in Northampton you’ll want to undergo motorcycle training at one of our training centres in either Northampton or Milton Keynes.
How the Motorcycle Test in Northampton Works
Once you’ve passed your theory test and hazard perception you will have two years to complete your practical test. The only time you don’t need to pass your theory test is when you are doing a CBT Training.
The practical test itself is split into two parts; Module 1, and Module 2. You’ll normally complete these on seperate days, as you cannot progress to Module 2 without first successfully completing Module 1.
Module 1 is completed on a purpose-built off-road training area, and usually takes around 20 minutes to complete. You’ll be asked to complete several different maneuvers during this part of the test. You’ll have to push the motorcycle around while off the bike and show you can use the stand correctly and safely. After that, you’ll need to perform a series of maneuvers while riding; a slalom and figure of eight, a slow, controlled ride, a U-turn, cornering and controlled stop, cornering and emergency stop, and the cornering and hazard avoidance maneuver. All these maneuvers will be covered extensively during your motorcycle training with your instructor.
Module 2 usually about 50 minutes. You’ll head out onto the road with of the examiner, who will give you directions through a one-way radio as he follows you and observes your riding. The road ride will include stopping, pulling away at an angle from behind a parked car, and a hill start if possible. For a short while you will have to ride independently. This means the instructor will give you a destination that you must reach following road signs.
Which Motorcycle Should I Choose?
If you’re under 19 then you’ll only be allowed to ride a 50cc machine (at the age of 16), or a 125cc machine (17 and over) so your choice is narrowed down somewhat. But once you turn 19 and pass your motorcycle test to gain your A2 licence you will be able to choose whatever motorcycle or scooter you like - as long as it has a maximum power output of 35kW. You can buy a motorcycle that produces this much power as standard, or you can opt to buy a more powerful motorcycle and have a restrictor fitted. You will only be restricted to 35kW for two years, after that you can ride a bike with any power output.
There are many different things to consider when it comes to buying a motorcycle; What’s your budget? WIll it be for fun or commuting? What engine size do you want? Of course it’s down to you, but we’d recommend staying away from larger and heavier bikes if you’re inexperienced. We’d also recommend staying away from bikes with unnatural riding positions, such as sportsbikes. They may look cool, but the riding position can make them tricky to handle, especially at lower speeds. Take your time, do your research, and shop around.