Frequently Asked Questions




Q. Can I take my practical test at my local bike training school?


A. No, Im afraid it must be taken at a DSA testing station. On the face of it this seems reasonable for most people but has, for some, caused concern over the past few years.

Since the introduction of the pursuit test in 1989 the number of test stations carrying out bike tests has been severely reduced. This has led to a number of, mostly elderly, riders of mopeds who live a long way from their nearest station becoming fearful of attempting long runs to strange towns and they feel forced to keep re-doing CBT, (often at high cost) as an alternative to taking the test.



Q. How much should I spend on a helmet and other protective clothing?


A. The more you can afford, the more choice you will get. This is a very important aspect of safety and not to be skimped on. However, even on a low budget you can get good protection if you take advice. Ask someone you trust to go with you when you buy.



Q. What is the quickest way for me to get my licence?


A. The quickest way to get an unrestricted licence for people over 21 is to complete a short DAS course with a training scheme. Training bodies usually book your test and sell it along with the training package. This is okay as long as they teach the full training syllabus and dont simply offer courses which consist of little more than running round well-known test routes. Hopefully, the recent changes to the rules will end the spectacle of a whole string of trainees on up to 125cc bikes following along behind one so called instructor who doesnt even have to be qualified!



Q. How do I choose which scheme to train with?


A. With so many schemes now operating this can be problem. However, all ATBs are subject to strict scrutiny by the DSA, who have no compunction in closing down sites that do not come up to the mark. Also if you have a look at the directory on this website you can see from the information displayed most of what is on offer at the various schemes near you.

Even so, I suggest you ask the following questions when enquiring about training:

• Does the price quoted for training cover everything, including VAT, insurance, petrol, use of bike, helmet, equipment etc. You may be surprised to find that the true cost of the so-called cheaper courses can actually be very high indeed!
  
  
• Am I liable for damage to the hire bike if I drop it? Many schemes cover damage in their running costs, others cut prices but charge for damage caused. If you are a novice this can be a substantial addition to your expense!
  
  
• Is the price of CBT the total price (including use of bike etc.) irrespective of the length of the course? For a beginner it can easily take a few visits to get the certificate. Remember, CBT doesnt have to be completed in one day!
  
  
• Does the scheme operate the type of bike I want to learn on? E.g. small people may need a lower seating position or you may want a geared moped etc. It is better to ask than find out later that you have to use an unsuitable machine.
  
  
• Do trainees have to share bikes? Good schemes always have enough machines to go round plus one or two in reserve.
  
  
• Is there a classroom and a toilet on the site?
  
  
• Can I get my money back for unused training if I quit the course before it concludes? Good schemes will have no problem with this because so few people will ever want to quit!
  
  
  

Q. What sort of bike should I get to start with?


A. The most often asked question of them all! This is the one only you can answer! The best way to do that is to ask yourself what you want to do with the bike. Is it for commuting? Or is it touring? Or, perhaps, Sunday afternoon recreation and posing! Horses for courses, good trainers will give good advice.


One thing I will say is that peoples garages up and down the country are housing bent and scratched, low mileage, sports replica bikes that their owners will probably never venture out on again. Some certainly wont because they have been killed or have crippled themselves!


High performance machines need skill and experience to handle properly, especially in an emergency. A 3-day DAS course and a couple of months experience on the road is simply not enough.


The best advice I can give is to start off with a mid-range medium powered bike and take further training to develop your skill level. When you have mastered the techniques and are reaching the full power potential of this bike you can start to consider moving up a grade. Dont rush things, life is too precious to throw away and my insurance premiums are high enough already!


(THE HELP LINE IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO E MAIL US FOR PROFESSIONAL, IMPARTIAL ADVICE ON ANY TRAINING MATTER)



Please note. Whereas, every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the above, at the time of writing. This piece has been written as a general guide only and no liability can be accepted for errors that may exist or misunderstandings that may arise from reading the contents.


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