How do I get an A class motorcycle license in the UK without having to pay an instructor?

Question

I currently ride a 125cc scooter with L plates and its not capable of going over 62mph. Therefore if I use it for my practical I will have to settle for an A1 license and since its automatic I will be stuck with 125cc automatic bikes as my only option. Is my only option to buy a 125cc capable of going over 62mph just for the practical test (and then sell it after I pass)? I don't want to ultimately get a massive bike. I just want to be able to ride that bikes that are available to A class licenses like a 500cc.

Answer 1

It looks like it is rent one or lend one. Probably cheaper taking in to account rental and insurance costs if you went with an instructor. I never realised that there was an automatic grade of motobike licence,

Answer 2

well  you know the options, if you need a bigger bike, you have to borrow, rent , buy or pay to use a instructors bike.

Answer 3

Unfortunately you do need a manual bike to do the test in order to get a manual licence.

I have heard of people renting a bike from a riding school in order to do their test. It is pricey, but at the very least you will get the licence you want and then you can drive any bike (be it manual or automatic). I would advise getting a few lessons so you are used to changing gears if you aren't used to it and going over a few test routes.

If you borrow a 125 from a friend then you have problems with insurance. Although if you rind your insurance company I am sure they could arrange cover.

You don't need to go that fast for the test. The bike I did the test on (less than 2 years ago) was a 125cc bike which had a top speed of 65mph (when it was brand new about 8 years before) and I passed without a problem. I did do the test in Northern Ireland so perhaps things are slightly different here (we do not have the direct access test and in addition to being restricted to 33 bhp for two years we are also restricted to wearing "R" plates and have to drive less than 45mph and forbidden from travelling on motorways for 1 year after passing)

Answer 4

Its got nothing to do with how fast your bike will go. You need to take a test on a bike with more than 33 bhp. Ask around local training places and see if you can just take one or two lessons on a bigger bike then go for your test. If your not used to gear changes though you may well need more lessons. The training school will set up your test and rent you the bike and take you on a pre-test run all for one price.