A new practical motorcycle test came into force at the end of April 2009, and in addition to the existing accompanied on-road element (now called Module 2) there will now be a shorter off-road test around cones (Module 1). This will allow the examiner to be sure that the candidate has a very high level of machine control before being allowed on the on-road element.

This new test has been going for over a year now,  we have found that most students manage Module 1 with no significant problems although we do need to spend more time practicing the slow speed manoeuvres. On the plus side we have found that the Module 2 road ride is now much less of a worry because there are no special manoeuvres. All but a couple of students have passed the module 2 test 1st time.

On the day of the Module 1 test, candidates will be asked by the examiner to demonstrate their riding ability on either the left-hand or right-hand circuit, according to how the circuit has been laid out on that day for that test centre.

We have made a couple of videos to help you better visualize what's involved in Module One of the test. The first is an overview of the right-hand circuit. Watch the video whilst keeping an eye on the right-hand circuit diagram (above right):

The second is a more detailed view of the above 50 km/h (32mph) swerve and of the emergency stop:

There has been some debate about the difficulty of getting to the minimum 32mph for the swerve and emergency stop on a 125 in the space provided (you get a second go at each if you fail to get the min speed the first time). The third video illustrates how this achievable (this time on a left-hand circuit):

If you pass Module 1 you'll given a Pass Certificate that you must present when you take Module 2 (the on-road element) back at the local test centre in Bury St Edmunds.

Module 2 takes about an hour to complete and includes the eyesight test, road safety questions and a minimum of 30 minutes of on-road riding. The on-road riding will include a variety of road and traffic conditions (in town and on the open road) and will also include normal stops, hill and angle starts.

More details of the new 2009 motorcycle test are available from the DSA where you can also see their offical Module One & Two Videos.