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If you intend to learn to ride a motorcycle, then it is perhaps useful to consider gaining experience on a moped first. Most mopeds cannot surpass around 30mph in speed, and they have an engine size of around 50cc or less. Depending on if and when an individual has passed a car-driving test, they may be able to begin riding a moped with learner plates on immediately – and this can provide invaluable exposure to motor vehicles before making the step up to more powerful bikes.
‘Learner Motorcycles’ are regarded as bikes with an engine equal to, but not exceeding, 125cc. At the age of 17, riders are no longer tied down to mopeds, and once gaining a provisional motorcycle license and passing the Compulsory Basic Training (which will be discussed later), a ‘learner motorcycle’ can be rode, however, youngsters must still attach ‘L-plates’. In order to then ride ‘full size’ bikes, one must then pass a theory test (on top of the Compulsory Basic Training), and a practical road test, therefore by firstly gaining experience on mopeds and learner motorcycles, individuals can dramatically approve their chances of being successful in the later tests.
50cc mopeds can be purchased brand new for around £500, yet with good advice and recommendations, learners also have the option of purchasing second hand. Used mopeds are widely available online and in motorcycle magazines, as bikers are keen to make money back once they move onto vehicles with larger engines.
Similarly, 125cc motorcycles can cost around £700 brand new, yet, again, by checking in specialist magazines, local newspapers, and on internet auction sites, these costs can sizably drop, and again, there is always the potential to purchase used vehicles.
It is also crucial to understand that once riders begin to use anything from a moped upwards on the road, they will require at least third party insurance – however, an independent guide to safety equipment and insurance can be found on this site. |
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