FURTHER MOTORCYCLE TRAINING

Preparatory On Road Training Course

When you have satisfactorily completed you CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) you will be allowed to ride on public roads where you'll gain the experience needed to pass your practical motorcycle test. To give yourself the best chance of passing you can take this further course designed to help get you through the test.

Accelerated Access Scheme

If you have already obtained a full standard category A licence and you reach the age of 21 before the two year qualifying period is complete you may opt to take a further test on a motorcycle with a power output of at least 35kW (46.6bhp) to gain immediate access to all motorcycles. This is called Accelerated Access. You can practice for this test on motorcycles above 25kW only if you are accompanied by a certified motorcycle instructor on another motorcycle and you are displaying `L' plates. You do not need to complete CBT again, or pass another theory test.

Direct Access Scheme

Again for riders over 21, but with this scheme you need take (and pass) only ONE test to give you direct access to any size of motorcycle. This test must also be taken on a motorcycle with a power output of at least 35kW ( 46.6 bhp ). Before taking the DAS course you will still have to satisfactorily complete CBT and also pass the Theory Test even if you have a full car licence.

Training for Direct Access or Accelerated Access

So that learners aged 21 or over may practice for the large motorcycle test they may ride, on public roads, a motorcycle that exceeds the UK learner specification, but only under the supervision of a certified Direct Access instructor. When learning on a large motorcycle the usual learner restrictions will apply (`L' plates, no pillion passengers and motorway prohibition).

Enhanced Rider Scheme (ERS)

The Driving Standards Agency, in conjunction with the motorcycle industry, have devised a new package of training known as the Enhanced Rider Scheme (ERS).

The scheme is intended to benefit all bike riders who have a full motorcycle licence, irrespective to the size of bike, or the experience level of the rider. You will not need to take a test or even any training if your skills are assessed as satisfactory. You will also earn discounts on your insurance as a result.

Any rider who shows the required level of competency on training delivered by a registered post-test motorcycle trainer (RPMT) will receive a DSA Certificate of Competence – Enhanced Rider Bonus. They can present this certificate to major insurers to be in line for possible discounts. Further, they will also be eligible for continued discounts by receiving additional developmental training in future years. This applies to ALL riders taking RPMT training such as new riders, experienced riders and those returning to riding after a break.

The insurers sponsoring the scheme are: AA Insurance, Bennett's Insurance, Bikesure, Carole Nash, Chandler Direct, CIA Ins, Devitt, E Bike, MCE Ins, Motorcycle Direct, Norwich Union Direct and Lexham.

Don’t take any unnecessary risks. Get yourself assessed by your local DSA accredited trainer today. You can find your nearest trainer by calling DSA on 0115 936 6546 or click HERE

Register of Post-test Motorcycle Trainers (RPMT)

The “Register of Post Test Motorcycle Trainers” (RPMT) has been developed as part of the Governments Motorcycling Strategy. Its objective is to improve the skills of motorcycle riders and to help reduce the number of bike related accidents in Britain which currently stands sixteen times higher than that of car drivers.

RPMT has been developed to deliver an enhanced rider training scheme. The scheme is designed to ensure that the training delivered is of an agreed national standard. In order to qualify to be on the register, instructors will have demonstrated a high level of skill and competence in riding and instructional ability. To remain on the register, trainers will be subject to ongoing quality assurance. You can see the register, which is sorted in postcode order, HERE

The syllabus is designed to reduce risk and improve an individual rider’s skills and we would like you to help us deliver this structured training, to those who do not have all of the required skills.

The scheme also provides insurance discounts for both riders and trainers who take part.

To find out more simply request a starter pack or give DSA a call on 0115 936 6546 and ask for information on the Register for Post-Test Motorcycle Trainers.

Advanced Training

Once you've passed your test you may want to improve your riding skills. For information on various advanced courses and advanced instructors nationwide please visit www.ukadvanced.co.uk

If you'd like to see some movie clips, with commentary, of advanced motorcycle training take a look at Nigel Bowers' website and his collection of clips on Youtube