If you’re looking to gain your motorcycle licence in Nottingham it may often seem like a complicated process, but we’re here to make completing your motorcycle training as easy as possible, and we are sure you’ll find everything a lot easier than it might first seem. We can also assure you that you’re here at the right place, because at RideTo, we have a number of training schools in Nottingham and the surrounding area that will see you gain your full motorcycle license in no time.
Most of the requirements for how and when you can take your motorcycle test depend upon your age - and you may have to take several tests over several years.
Here’s how it breaks down.
Age 16
A lot of people think that the youngest age for legally riding within the UK is 17, but if you’re 16 years old, this is the earliest you can ride a motorcycle or scooter in the UK. In order to ride legally, at the very least you will have to have completed 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 training in Nottingham will only take you a day and you don’t need any prior riding experience. And the best part about it all is that once you’re done, you can be out and riding on the road immediately. You’ll have to display L-plates on the front and rear of your machine though, 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 license.
Age 17-18
Not a lot changes for anyone 17 or older, and - once again - the quickest way to two wheels is via the CBT… The difference this time however is that you can now ride bikes upto 125cc, with a maximum power output of 11kW. This also means that there is no speed restriction. And, just as with the AM license, you can choose to drop the L-plates, carry passengers and lose the motorway restrictions by completing your theory test and two-part practical test to gain your full, A1 license.
Age 19-23
Now, this is where it starts to get a little more exciting because from the age of 19 you’ll be able to take your motorcycle test for the A2 license. 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 and is probably the most popular way to gain your motorcycle license in Nottingham. The Direct Access test must be completed on a motorcycle with a minimum power output of 40kW but if you pass your motorcycle test before the age of 24, the bikes you will be allowed to ride must be restricted to 35kW. However, if you’ve completed your direct access and are 24 or over, you will be allowed to ride any bike upon completion with no engine capacity or power restrictions.
Choosing a Motorcycle or Scooter
Ultimately the choice of bike to ride is a personal preference, but as you will have read above, there are licence restrictions with regards to power output and speed for certain ages/types of licence. We always recommend that your first motorcycle be one that’s suited for your needs but also your riding abilities - there’s no need in buying that super fast sportsbike if all your going to do is be riding to and from the Nottingham University campus!