Bike Licence
27 March 2002, 10:12 AM
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Right, I love the scooby, and I love driving it, but ever since I rode a silly little bike in a field many, many, many 
years ago, I've always wanted to get my bike licence, but I've never got round to it, cos I'm lazy, plus other reasons as well. What with fuel and insurance costs rising, getting a bike for the, albeit short commute to work, does kind of appeal to me, plus it seems that quite a few of the other subaru chaps have bikes as well, so could be a laff.
So, the question is, how do I go about getting my bike licence?
Ideally, I don't want to have to poodle around on a 250 for a few years before getting a 'big' bike, so is there anyway to fast track to getting a big bike licence. I'm not silly, so won't pass and then go out and get an R1, no matter how much that does appeal, so I'd probably, if I were to get a bike, get a CBR or something, though would appreciate advice on the best 'big' or 'bigish' bike for a newbie biker, when/if I become one.
I know you can go on a course type thing, you know one of those 'you don't pass you don't pay' type things. Do these exist to get you up to big bike status, or is it a case of you have to pass the small one then toddle around for a while before getting a bigger bike.
As you can probably tell, I know next to nothing about this.
years ago, I've always wanted to get my bike licence, but I've never got round to it, cos I'm lazy, plus other reasons as well. What with fuel and insurance costs rising, getting a bike for the, albeit short commute to work, does kind of appeal to me, plus it seems that quite a few of the other subaru chaps have bikes as well, so could be a laff.So, the question is, how do I go about getting my bike licence?
Ideally, I don't want to have to poodle around on a 250 for a few years before getting a 'big' bike, so is there anyway to fast track to getting a big bike licence. I'm not silly, so won't pass and then go out and get an R1, no matter how much that does appeal, so I'd probably, if I were to get a bike, get a CBR or something, though would appreciate advice on the best 'big' or 'bigish'
bike for a newbie biker, when/if I become one.I know you can go on a course type thing, you know one of those 'you don't pass you don't pay' type things. Do these exist to get you up to big bike status, or is it a case of you have to pass the small one then toddle around for a while before getting a bigger bike.
As you can probably tell, I know next to nothing about this.
27 March 2002, 10:26 AM
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looking at DVLA site, could this be what I'm after?
Riders aged 21 or over may opt to take a test on a large motorcycle. On passing the test they are immediately qualified to ride any motorcycle without restrictions. This option is called Direct Access. You must complete CBT, and if necessary, a motorcycle theory test and a practical test on a motorcycle of at least 35kW (46.6bhp).
Riders aged 21 or over may opt to take a test on a large motorcycle. On passing the test they are immediately qualified to ride any motorcycle without restrictions. This option is called Direct Access. You must complete CBT, and if necessary, a motorcycle theory test and a practical test on a motorcycle of at least 35kW (46.6bhp).
27 March 2002, 10:27 AM
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the words you are looking for are 'Direct Access'. Lets you ride a whatever from the day you pass your test. Check the link for some more info.
www.doningtonpark.co.uk/direct_access.htm
I wouldn't dis 250's though. You can learn a lot about handling and corner speed. It would probably make you a more complete rider in the long term. Any 600 sportsbike is mental. 60 in under 4 seconds and 170ish flat out, but still reasonably controlable. If you go down the R1, Blade, 1300 Gixer route as a first bike you will probably hurt yourself.
www.doningtonpark.co.uk/direct_access.htm
I wouldn't dis 250's though. You can learn a lot about handling and corner speed. It would probably make you a more complete rider in the long term. Any 600 sportsbike is mental. 60 in under 4 seconds and 170ish flat out, but still reasonably controlable. If you go down the R1, Blade, 1300 Gixer route as a first bike you will probably hurt yourself.
- Just do a search for direct access
27 March 2002, 10:30 AM
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Thanks FB, going to do some reading. Direct Access looks like the right term indeed.
Not dissing 250's probably just what I'll get, though the 'man' in me will say go for a CBR or something.
I know full well that if I went straight for an R1 or similar then I'd be in the nearest hedge quicker than you can say "look at that fat kit on a bike!" joking apart I know how dangerous bikes can be, and more to the point, how other road users disregard the needs of bikers, so I'd be very careful.
Not dissing 250's probably just what I'll get, though the 'man' in me will say go for a CBR or something.
I know full well that if I went straight for an R1 or similar then I'd be in the nearest hedge quicker than you can say "look at that fat kit on a bike!" joking apart I know how dangerous bikes can be, and more to the point, how other road users disregard the needs of bikers, so I'd be very careful.
27 March 2002, 10:35 AM
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just having a quick read of http://motobykz.co.uk/Motorbiketraining.htm
so, is it correct that I'd not need to do the theory test because I have a full car driving license? cool!
so, is it correct that I'd not need to do the theory test because I have a full car driving license? cool!
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27 March 2002, 10:40 AM
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Hi Markus
Before I tell you, I have to apologise for not saying hello to you as I was next to you in the Shell garage in TWells Sunday morning! I was on the green Kawasaki on the pump next to you but was in a real rush so couldn't stop and intoduce myself. Hopefully will make it to the next scoobysnacks meet tho.
Right in terms of getting your license there is a 3 day course you can do. This is the route I went down as I didn't want a pot pot to bomb about on. I got my license and then waited a year to get my first bike. Look up a company called Kent and Sussex Motorcycle Training or similar (based in TWells), its who I learnt with 7 years ago and I believe they are still going. The owner, Dave, used to run the company as part of CSM before going it alone if I remember correctly. He was always fully booked up and I can recomend him as a very good trainer, before my course I had never even sat on a motorbike, let alone ridden one.
As for getting your first bike I would suggest looking at a sports 400 like cbr/vfr as they are fantastic to learn your skills on, very lite, handle like no other bike (was constantly congratulated by fireblade owners who couldn't shake me on twisty roads and couldn't believe it was a stock 400cc apart from full race exhaust)and they go like stink, top end approx 140 mph when fully derestricted. Very cheap to insure and run in comparison to other sports bikes, ie 600's and above. If you are determined to get a 600 then definately a cbr again or zx6-r. Let me know how u get on, and if you have any more questions just ask!
Looking forward to playing with my toys now summer is coming
Bob
Before I tell you, I have to apologise for not saying hello to you as I was next to you in the Shell garage in TWells Sunday morning! I was on the green Kawasaki on the pump next to you but was in a real rush so couldn't stop and intoduce myself. Hopefully will make it to the next scoobysnacks meet tho.
Right in terms of getting your license there is a 3 day course you can do. This is the route I went down as I didn't want a pot pot to bomb about on. I got my license and then waited a year to get my first bike. Look up a company called Kent and Sussex Motorcycle Training or similar (based in TWells), its who I learnt with 7 years ago and I believe they are still going. The owner, Dave, used to run the company as part of CSM before going it alone if I remember correctly. He was always fully booked up and I can recomend him as a very good trainer, before my course I had never even sat on a motorbike, let alone ridden one.
As for getting your first bike I would suggest looking at a sports 400 like cbr/vfr as they are fantastic to learn your skills on, very lite, handle like no other bike (was constantly congratulated by fireblade owners who couldn't shake me on twisty roads and couldn't believe it was a stock 400cc apart from full race exhaust
)and they go like stink, top end approx 140 mph when fully derestricted. Very cheap to insure and run in comparison to other sports bikes, ie 600's and above. If you are determined to get a 600 then definately a cbr again or zx6-r. Let me know how u get on, and if you have any more questions just ask!Looking forward to playing with my toys now summer is coming
Bob
27 March 2002, 11:10 AM
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ahh, did wonder why the kwak owner was looking at me in a funny way! Glad to have seen you.
Thanks for the info, think I'll give the place you mention a look up.
Think the 400 CBR sounds like a lot of fun.
of course, I'm lazy so probably won't even get off my *** to do this, but at least I'll know!
cheers
Thanks for the info, think I'll give the place you mention a look up.
Think the 400 CBR sounds like a lot of fun.
of course, I'm lazy so probably won't even get off my *** to do this, but at least I'll know!
cheers
27 March 2002, 11:12 AM
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Do these sound like the guys?
Kent & Sussex Rider Training
The Motorcycling Centre
Sandhurst Rd
Tunbridge Wells
Kent
TN2 3DB
Tel: 01892 518189
Kent & Sussex Rider Training
The Motorcycling Centre
Sandhurst Rd
Tunbridge Wells
Kent
TN2 3DB
Tel: 01892 518189
27 March 2002, 11:14 AM
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what bike you go for depends on stuff like a) your height & b) what you plan on using it for
Although stunning fun in the roundabout surfing stakes, a vfr 400 is pretty hopeless if you're 6'4" and want to tour to the south of france with your missus and three weeks of luggage... (and I just know that someone is going to post that i'm talking cr4p coz they're 7'2" and drove to the ukraine with their wife and 8 kids all on a 'priller 250...)
If you're after something sensible that you can commute with, scratch on and go places with a pillion, then one of the rotax 650 single type things are worth looking at (bmw f650, aprilla pegaso, etc). My wife got one of these as a first bike, and although its got around 1/3 of the power of my bike its loads of fun and will keep up with the sports bikes down the lanes. Cheapish to buy, reliable, doesnt damage to badly when you drop it (its your first bike - you will drop it...). Then flog it after a year when you've got a better idea of what you want.
The hornet 600 definately worth looking at - cbr600f2 engine, 85bhp at the back wheel which is fast enough. Or a few years old vfr750 if you want an all rounder (back to the ukraine with the family)
I guess its like someone coming on the board and saying they want to pass their driving test & what car should they buy. The 400's are a bit like the lotus elise - light, fast, not too powerful. Ideal first car ? mmm...
Although stunning fun in the roundabout surfing stakes, a vfr 400 is pretty hopeless if you're 6'4" and want to tour to the south of france with your missus and three weeks of luggage... (and I just know that someone is going to post that i'm talking cr4p coz they're 7'2" and drove to the ukraine with their wife and 8 kids all on a 'priller 250...)
If you're after something sensible that you can commute with, scratch on and go places with a pillion, then one of the rotax 650 single type things are worth looking at (bmw f650, aprilla pegaso, etc). My wife got one of these as a first bike, and although its got around 1/3 of the power of my bike its loads of fun and will keep up with the sports bikes down the lanes. Cheapish to buy, reliable, doesnt damage to badly when you drop it (its your first bike - you will drop it...). Then flog it after a year when you've got a better idea of what you want.
The hornet 600 definately worth looking at - cbr600f2 engine, 85bhp at the back wheel which is fast enough. Or a few years old vfr750 if you want an all rounder (back to the ukraine with the family)
I guess its like someone coming on the board and saying they want to pass their driving test & what car should they buy. The 400's are a bit like the lotus elise - light, fast, not too powerful. Ideal first car ? mmm...
27 March 2002, 11:22 AM
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Jon u know it I'm 6'3 and had my cbr tri-arm for 5 years, did 30k miles on it and loved every mile! Swear by dem 400's, taught me an awful lot and will always recommend them. I agree no good for touring with ya mrs on the back but I never had that worry so it suited me down to the ground till I got my zx6-r.
I'm 6'3 and had my cbr tri-arm for 5 years, did 30k miles on it and loved every mile! Swear by dem 400's, taught me an awful lot and will always recommend them. I agree no good for touring with ya mrs on the back but I never had that worry so it suited me down to the ground till I got my zx6-r.
27 March 2002, 11:26 AM
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**************,
where's a decent bike shop? there's one in paddock wood (motorcycle city?) where else localish is there to go and drool, umm, look at some bikes.
Plus, leathers n lids, what's the best for a begginer?
where's a decent bike shop? there's one in paddock wood (motorcycle city?) where else localish is there to go and drool, umm, look
at some bikes.Plus, leathers n lids, what's the best for a begginer?
27 March 2002, 11:27 AM
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Yeah, they have moved, there is a listing for them on yell.co.uk in thier new premisises not far from the old (sandhurst road I think)
27 March 2002, 11:29 AM
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i ended up selling a cbr600 cause it was too small - i used to do sunday rides of 350 - 400 miles, london - s wales, mid wales & back. I'd be in agony by the time I was heading back. But i remember talking to some guy who reckoned his rs250 was the best tourer you could buy. Each to their own I guess.
27 March 2002, 11:31 AM
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just a quick blast eh Jon? and I thought my little 130 odd mile weekend jaunts in the scoob were excessive
I'm more and more tempted by this bike thing now.
and I thought my little 130 odd mile weekend jaunts in the scoob were excessive I'm more and more tempted by this bike thing now.
27 March 2002, 11:33 AM
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Paddock Wood, descent bike shop??? All I can say is I had very bad experience with their service dept, wont slag them off on here cos its just my own experience but they are ok for sales. Best place to look tho is mcn newspaper out every wednesday and on their website at who has got the best deals on at the moment. Clothing is purely down to taste and what u want to fork out. I got myself a simpson bandit lid that cost £400 with black visor but that was way over the top looking back at it, I wouldn't pay anyless than £150 tho for a lid, and again leathers are anything from £100 upwards for a jacket or jeans to thousands for latest one piece flashy race leathers made to fit. U have to decide a budget before u go shopping as it can get very costly just like modding the car
27 March 2002, 11:51 AM
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Markus - i was only thinking about the same questions last weekend. It is so tempting as my fiance's uncle is in the World Sidecar/Superbike game, but i am just concerned that almost every rider I know has had a serious accident on one.
Hmmmmmmmm. Maybe i should just get a road legal sidecar rig.
Hmmmmmmmm. Maybe i should just get a road legal sidecar rig.
27 March 2002, 01:56 PM
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lol @ druddle - yeah that would be the safe option. Not. Have you actually seen these things ???
I can imagine it - cruising down the M1 @ 85 mph, "**** where's my passenger gone ???"
I can imagine it - cruising down the M1 @ 85 mph, "**** where's my passenger gone ???"
27 March 2002, 02:21 PM
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A question about lids.
can I get a lid that will be legal for both bike and also for use on a *car* trackday? assume a basic lid won't be car trackday compliant?
can I get a lid that will be legal for both bike and also for use on a *car* trackday? assume a basic lid won't be car trackday compliant?
27 March 2002, 02:27 PM
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yep - just about anything is "legal" for a car track day. I've seen folk wearing paragliding lids... You could put a paper mache baloon on your head and they'd be happy.
get a bike lid with a acu gold badge (some of the bike track days take lids a bit more seriously than most of the car days). Cant go wrong with Aria, Shoei, etc
jon
get a bike lid with a acu gold badge (some of the bike track days take lids a bit more seriously than most of the car days). Cant go wrong with Aria, Shoei, etc
jon
27 March 2002, 02:28 PM
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Well I know my Simpson is?/definately was used by top fuel drag racers so I would assume that it is track legal! As for less expensive lids I don't know what other ones would be suitable for both. And anyone who says the Simpson isn't road legal in Britain, yes it is under European law, the one time I am glad of interfering foreign politicians as the Schnell rating is a far higher standard than the BSI and therefore as Simpson lids passed that with flying colours it makes it legal in Britain!!! Plus not one copper has succesfully done me for wearing it due to the above argument, and I've been stopped loads. I would guess any motorcycle lid is legal for track use but I would check to make sure if this is important to you.
so I would assume that it is track legal! As for less expensive lids I don't know what other ones would be suitable for both. And anyone who says the Simpson isn't road legal in Britain, yes it is under European law, the one time I am glad of interfering foreign politicians as the Schnell rating is a far higher standard than the BSI and therefore as Simpson lids passed that with flying colours it makes it legal in Britain!!! Plus not one copper has succesfully done me for wearing it due to the above argument, and I've been stopped loads. I would guess any motorcycle lid is legal for track use but I would check to make sure if this is important to you.
27 March 2002, 04:34 PM
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jon
uncle-in-law works for Steve Abbot sidecar rig (championship leaders at the mo) and he was a passenger in a sidecar until he came out at the IOM. the passengers are not human they are cyborgs. they must be, you wouldnt catch any human doing what they do !!
imagine it if i took a corner a bit quick - oops where the fiance gone. maybe thats not such a bad idea.......
uncle-in-law works for Steve Abbot sidecar rig (championship leaders at the mo) and he was a passenger in a sidecar until he came out at the IOM. the passengers are not human they are cyborgs. they must be, you wouldnt catch any human doing what they do !!
imagine it if i took a corner a bit quick - oops where the fiance gone. maybe thats not such a bad idea.......
27 March 2002, 10:11 PM
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Markus, YHM.
But here I'll say that if you're looking for a good dealer local(ish) to you then you should think about Premier Suzuki in West Wickham. They like Scoobs, too 020 8777 8040.
As far as lids go, Bell Helmets used to have a great slogan. "You got a ten dollar head? Buy a ten dollar helmet."
I've got an Arai that cost an arm and a leg. It's my third and I won't wear anything else. Sod the money - if it's good enough to survive a high speed getoff at the Nurburgring then it's good enough to replace with the same thing.
Cheers,
SB
PS Spring park Motors are just down the road from Premier. I'm a lucky guy - I can walk to my car *and* bike dealer. *AND* I'm really happy woth both of 'em
But here I'll say that if you're looking for a good dealer local(ish) to you then you should think about Premier Suzuki in West Wickham. They like Scoobs, too
020 8777 8040.As far as lids go, Bell Helmets used to have a great slogan. "You got a ten dollar head? Buy a ten dollar helmet."
I've got an Arai that cost an arm and a leg. It's my third and I won't wear anything else. Sod the money - if it's good enough to survive a high speed getoff at the Nurburgring then it's good enough to replace with the same thing.
Cheers,
SB
PS Spring park Motors are just down the road from Premier. I'm a lucky guy - I can walk to my car *and* bike dealer. *AND* I'm really happy woth both of 'em
27 March 2002, 10:17 PM
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Cor, I dunno,
I my day you borrowed a Honda 50 booked a test and passed at age 16
Then you just had to figure out how to raise the money to buy a big bike
p.s. current machine is an Yamaha XV1600 (if anyone knows what that is) V twin monster - 100ft lbs torque at 2000 rpm
I my day you borrowed a Honda 50 booked a test and passed at age 16
Then you just had to figure out how to raise the money to buy a big bike
p.s. current machine is an Yamaha XV1600 (if anyone knows what that is) V twin monster - 100ft lbs torque at 2000 rpm