Hi,
I am 26 and have had a full UK driving licence since I was 17. I'd like to know which bikes I can / cant ride and what further training I might need. In particular I'm interested in a 125cc, 33bhp bike (Aprillia rs125) but am also considering a 50cc scooter in the short term. I have read lots of conflicting info from different sites and would be grateful for an accurate answer.
Thanks! At the moment on your licence (Providing you didn't specifically tick the box not to have the additional provisional categories) you can ride a 50cc moped without L plates or a CBT (However a CBT is recommended).
On a 50cc moped (Which has a lot less power than 14.6BHP as stated above) you won't be allowed to carry pillions (Passengers) or go on the Motorway.
Once you have done a CBT you can ride anything upto a 125cc with power output not exceeding 14.6BHP (So your idea of a 33BHP Aprilla won't work) with L Plates.
Whilst on L Plates with your CBT, as above you won't be able to go on the Motorway or carry pillions.
You then have a few options open to you (You must have completed your CBT and passed a motorbike theory test before you can do any of these).
1. Take a practical test on a motorbike not exceeding 125cc and 14.6BHP (A2 Test) - A pass on this would allow you to ride any bike, but for the first 2 years it would have to be restricted to 33BHP.
2. Take a practical test on a big bike with power of at least 46Kw (Can't remember the BHP) - (A Test) - this will allow you to ride any size bike without any restriction.
Training is available for both options although most places would advise (Because of your age) that you opt for DAS training (Option 2 above). up to 125cc you need to pass a cbt test before riding a motercycle on the road. follow this link
http://www.motorcycle-training.f2s.com/ To ride a 33bhp bike you'll need your CBT - about 拢100 with training and the test fee.
Then you could either do a direct access course to get up to a full license or just enjoy your 125. But you'd need to renew your CBT every two years.
Also consider the Cagiva Mito btw :) I've just found this on the DVLA website..
Full category B driving licence (cars) holders riding mopeds:
Since 1 February 2001, a person passing a car driving test is required to undertake a moped riding course before they can ride a moped on the road.
Persons who already hold a full car licence, or who passed a car test before 1 February 2001, are not required to take training before riding a moped, but they are encouraged to do so.
So, since you've passed your test some 9 years ago, you'd not need to take another test to ride a moped that doesn't exceed 14.6bhp. However, to ride anything larger, you'd need a full CBT.
Having said that, I'd try calling the DSA on 0115 901 2500 and ask for the CBT section to go through it to see what you can and can't do with a full driving licence. | 