Learner Riding Techniques

Training | Motorcycle Training Courses | Advanced Riding Techniques
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ART's Aims
If its your first experience of motorcycle training or your first time on two wheels, at ART we are keen to ensure that the experience is enjoyable, enlightening and confidence building. All of the courses are specifically designed to increase your confidence and riding skills as you progress through each stage. We aim to give a lasting impression that will keep you coming back to us, from Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) through your test and onwards into advanced courses.

Where do I start?
As of February 2001, anyone wanting to pass their motorcycle test will need to pass the theory test. This normally applies to all types of licence, full or provisional. As of September 2000, no one is exempt from taking the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. But don't worry, whatever your previous experience, you'll still gain important knowledge in the course of the day. We train with a maximum of 2 trainees to 1 instructor. You will begin the course with a briefing with the other students and instructors. You will then be taken out to the motorcycle and begin the off-road training. When you are capable, you will then go out on the road to complete your training.

Why a theory test?
The motorcycle theory test has been introduced since 1st February 2001, for everyone wanting a motorcycle licence (A2 or DAS). It is sat independently, at the 'official theory Test Centre.

It lasts approximately 45 minutes and involves all aspects of motorcycle road use. There are 35 multiple-choice questions, with 4 possible answers, which are shown on a computer screen. You will need to answer at least 30 questions correctly to pass and you are able to receive the results on the same day. The certificate is valid for 2 yrs, however you do not need to take a theory test if you already hold a full motorcycle licence for another category of motorcycle or if you have passed a moped test since July 1st 1996. You are advised to revise in order to answer the questions correctly.

Some good revision tools include:

Official Theory Test For Car Driver's & Motorcyclist's (Your Licence to Drive)

• Double CD-ROM. Priced at £22.84
• Single CD-ROM. Priced at £11.49
• The Book. Priced at £14.99

The above can be purchased from the DSA.
Telephone: 0161 868 3906 (Prices are correct as at 1/5/01. Prices may vary).

What type of Licence?
Well, this depends on your age and what motorcycle you intend to ride.

Compulsory Basic Training Courses

This will allow you to ride a moped if you are aged 16, or if you are 17 or over, up to a 125cc on 'L' plates, and is valid for 2 years. The Compulsory Basic Training course starts at 9am with an explanation of the course format and what is involved. This includes advice and a discussion on the correct type of clothing and helmets to wear and how to carry out basic maintenance checks on your machine. The bulk of the day is spent learning how to pull away and stop correctly. You will be asked to control the machine at low speeds and demonstrate emergency stops, gear changing and cornering. The practical elements of the course are structured to re-enforce and expand your newly acquired skills as you progress through each level. Prior to going on the road on an accompanied ride, you will ride simulated left and right turns and there will be instruction on roadcraft and highway code. Provided that you ride safely and competently on the road you will then receive your CBT Certificate
(DL196). The course ends between 4pm and 5pm - depending on the number of people attending. We cannot guarantee that everyone will reach CBT level by the end of the day. Further training may be required to reach the standards set by the Government - see our price list.

A2 Licence
The A2 licence is taken on a machine of between 120cc and 125cc (capable of 100kph). Once you have passed, you can ride a motorcycle any capacity, but are restricted to 33bhp. You can carry a pillion passenger and use national motorways. The 33bhp restriction is valid for a 2 year period, after which you may ride a machine of any capacity and bhp with no further testing.

Direct Access (DAS)
If you are over 21 years you may take a Direct Access (DAS) test. This must be carried out on a motorcycle with a minimum of 46.6bhp. When you have passed, you may ride a machine of unlimited bhp.

Which course should I choose?

• The 3 day course is for those with previous experience, who have good co-ordination and machine control. Day 1 is spent improving existing skills on the CBT site and includes an on-road session to attain the Compulsory Basic Training certificate. Day 2 is on the road covering U-turns, emergency stops, roundabouts, left and right turn, emerging at T-junctions, dual carriageways and overtaking. The emphasis is on forward planning and making progress through traffic. You will be mock tested on day 3, to highlight any problem areas. Your test will be on the following day, DSA test availability permitting.
• The 6-day course is for those who have had little or no experience, or who would like to take a more relaxed approach to their training. A totally structured course including: Day 1 - the CBT test on a 125cc; a further two days on the 125cc learning the basics. From day 4 onwards, training moves onto the 500cc motorbike. More control is needed, so more care is taken with knowing the power of the motorcycle - out of town and dual carriageways. You will be mock tested on day 5, the test is on day 6.

Refresher Courses
These courses are for candidates that are re-testing.

Return Courses
Return Courses are for those former pupils who would like to top up their existing skills after they have passed their test. Also these courses are ideal for those returning to biking after a long break, enabling the rider to concentrate on any problem areas such as cornering or overtaking, thus providing a perfect stepping stone towards taking their advanced course.

These courses are available in half or whole days.

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Advanced Riding Techniques
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