What Can I Ride?
A moped has a maximum design speed not exceeding 50 km/h (approx. 31 mph). It has an engine capacity no greater than 50 cc and can be moved by pedals, if first used before 1 August 1977. A learner motorcycle has an engine up to 125 cc and a power output not exceeding 11 kW
Full Motorcycle Licence
There are three types of full motorcycle licence:
- Age 17 -18 a light motorcycle licence (A1), which restricts riders to any bike up to 125 cc and a power output of 11 kW. The practical test must be taken on a bike of between 120cc and 125 cc no more than 11kw and capable of at least 55mph
- Age 19+ a medium motorcycle licence (A2), is obtained if the practical test is taken on a bike of over 395 cc with power output between 25 and 35kW (33bhp and 46.6bhp). No upper engine size limit, but the power to weight ratio must not exceed 0.2kW/kg and it must not be derived from motorcycle of more than double its power.
- Age 24+ – full motorcycle licence (A), the practical test may be taken on a motorcycle at least 595cc with a power output of at least 40kW (53.6bhp)
Direct and Accelerated Access
Direct Access
After taking CBT and the theory test, the practical test may be taken on a motorcycle with a power output of at least 40kW. A pass allows you to ride any size of bike. All or part of the CBT course may be taken on either a learner bike or a large bike. You may practice for the practical test on bikes larger than the learner bike specification provided:
- You are accompanied at all times by an approved instructor on another bike and in radio contact.
- You wear fluorescent or reflective clothing and follow all other provisional licence restrictions.
Accelerated Access
Sidecars
Learners who wish to ride with a sidecar can practice on a combination with a power/weight ratio not exceeding 0.16 kW/kg. On obtaining a standard licence, you will be restricted to a combination with the same power/weight ratio for two years. At age 21 learners may, only within direct or accelerated access, practice on a larger combination, but the test must be taken on a solo bike (although physically disabled riders can use a combination).