Practical Motorcycle Test

Since April 2009, the motorcycle test will consist of two modules, Module 1 is the off-road manoeuvring test and Module 2 is the On-road Test. It is no more difficult to pass this test than the one that preceded it, providing that you have been taught how to ride a motorcycle safely. This is what we do from day 1 of learning at VMT.

Both parts of the test can be conducted on a single day at one of the Driving Standards Agency’s new M.P.T.C. (Multi-Purpose Test Centres) but if you fail Module 1, you will not be allowed to take Module 2 on the same day. We will only book both parts of the test on the same day if we are very confident that you will pass.

Ultimately, the choice will be yours but the second option is to take both modules separately, allowing you to progress at your own rate rather than the pressure of an “intensive” course. Once module one has been passed, this can be “banked” for up to two years, running alongside the theory test. Module two can then be taken when you are ready but before your theory test expires.

Module 1 will take approximately 15 minutes to complete on the MMA (Motorcycle Manoeuvring Area) and 55 minutes for Module 2 (on road). The MMA is a flat level tarmac area of 125 metres long by 40 metres wide (5000 sq metres).

There will be both a Left and Right circuit available on the MMA and the examiners will change between the two on a regular basis.

Circuit Layout

Module 1 comprises the series of manoeuvres listed below:

  1. On and off the stand - either main or side stand.
  2. Wheel the machine - push machine backwards in reverse U-Turn.
  3. Slalom - ride through 5 cones (4.5m apart).
  4. Figure of eight - ride figure of eight twice (6 meters apart).
  5. Slow ride - ride 17 meters at walking pace without putting feet down.
  6. U-Turn - complete U-Turn between lines 7.5 metres apart.
  7. 30kph circuit ride - ride radius at one end (not timed).
  8. Controlled stop - stop with front wheel between four blue cones.
  9. 50kph stop - emergency stop exercise at minimum 50kph.
  10. 50kph avoidance - off-road avoidance manoeuvre.
  11. MMA Circuit layout (Left & Right) - minimum speed reduced to 48kph for emergency/avoidance.

Once Module 1 has been passed, Module 2 is taken out on the public road where the examiner will check your documents, eyesight and kit you out with one of their radios (very similar to the one your instructor uses).

You are then asked safety questions and practical maintenance questions before the road ride.

The examiner will give you directions using a radio and follow on motorcycle. You ride in various road/traffic conditions and are allowed 10 rider error marks. You’ll be asked to carry out:

  • Normal stops
  • Angled start
  • Hill start
  • Junctions
  • Roundabouts
  • One-way systems
  • Dual Carriageways
Independent riding

Approximately ten minutes of independent riding to assess safe decision-making.

Clothing rules
  • Motorcycle helmet meeting British standards (turban exception)
  • Motorcycle boots or sturdy footwear
  • Textile or leather trousers / heavy denim trousers
  • Textile or leather jacket / heavy denim jacket with layers
  • Motorcycle gloves

Your test will be cancelled if standards are not met!