Changes to motorcycle test from 2005

The motorcycle test will change in 2005 to bring it in line with European legislation.

Member states have until October 11, 2005 to implement the changes, which focus on ‘special manoeuvres’ which will have to be included in every practical motorcycle test.

A consultation paper is available from the Driving Standards Agency website (www.dsa.gov.uk) entitled Delivering New Motorcycle test Summary.

The additional parts include:

At least two manoeuvres executed at slow speed, including a slalom. At least two manoeuvres executed at higher speed, one in second or third gear at a speed of at least 18.75mph, and one avoiding an obstacle above 31.25mph. At least two braking exercises, including an emergency brake at a minimum speed of 31.25mph.

This has caused concern among motorcycle training groups. It has been suggested that the additional tasks should be conducted away from the roads. This could mean training companies without suitable sites would face problems. It could also lead to increased costs, with essentially two tests to complete.

” This could result in a two-part motorcycle test with an additional off-highway training requirement, ” said Matthew Carrington, Chief Executive of the Retail Motor Industry Federation, ” When allied with the increased cost of training, it becomes potentially the biggest issue the industry has faced in years, and the implications for the future growth of the motorcycle market are equally serious. ”

The RMI are holding a conference today, Thursday February 13, in London to allow the industry to address the situation. Problems facing training groups include space, cost, extra tuition for instructors and public liability and professional indemnity issues for companies.

The training companies we contacted are looking to take the changes in their stride. ” It doesn’t worry us. It will worry the customer for a while, the same as the CBT did, but then things will pick up again. All the schools will be chock-a-block in 2005 before it comes in, ” said Chaz Lee-Eldrid of The Cambridge School of Motorcycling. ” The avoiding the obstacle manoeuvre looks to be going through a slalom of three or four cones, and basically handling a change of direction at speed. ”

Dou you think more motorcycle training is a good idea? Or will it put people off the idea of riding? Are you wondering what extra manoeuvres other road users might need? Post your comments and thoughts on the News board by following the link on the right.