Motorbikes: getting startedA good start is vital. Here, Jonathan Coburn goes through the ABCs of biking for beginners
It's so easy to start motorcycling. Most of us at some time in our lives, will have a desire to ride a motorcycle. It could be as a result of watching a movie or perhaps you always wanted to travel across Europe or the US on a bike.
There is something wonderful about the feeling of freedom, independence and adventure that you get from a bike. We feel a connection to the original adventurers who explored on horseback. You just won't get that in a camper van.
Unfortunately, the majority of us never see it through. I think we owe it to ourselves to fulfil the dream and this is how you need to go about it. I will list the simple steps you must take, including the forms you must fill in and in what sequence.
All forms for the application of a motorbike licence (M, A1, A) are available at your local motor taxation office. The first thing you need to do is to get a licence.
In order to ride a motorcycle or moped in a public place a person must hold a current driving licence or provisional licence in Category M (for mopeds only), A1 (bikes up to 125cc) or A (all sizes of bikes).
The A is available from 18 years of age for motorcycles, with or without a sidecar, subject to a power limit before the driving test and for two years afterwards of 25Kw/34bhp. Even if you intend starting out with a small bike we strongly suggest you apply for the A licence. The driving test for the A licence must be taken on a motorcycle of over 150cc.
The A1 licence is available from the age of 16, but will restrict the holder to motorcycles of 50cc to 125cc and a 11Kw/14.5bhp limit. Even if you pass the 125 driving test, when you upgrade to a bike over 125cc you will need a provisional A licence and to do a second test on a bike over 150cc, as well as endure power restrictions.
The M licence is strictly for mopeds, or engine-assisted bicycles, under 50cc with a top speed of below 45km/h (28mph) and is available from the age of 16. The holders of a full B (ie car) licence, can also drive mopeds, provided the moped is insured.
The journey towards getting a provisional licence starts with you applying to sit the driver theory test. You can apply on line at dtts.ie or by phoning 1890 606 106 or 1890 606 806 (as Gaeilge). Postal applications can be sent to DTT, PO Box 122 Drogheda, Co Louth. When applying to sit this test you must state that it is for category AM.
In order to pass the theory test you must get 70 correct answers to 80 questions. The theory test people will offer to sell you a practice CD; the test is computer-based and it's a good idea to get this. Like any test, it helps you understand the mind of the examiner.
When you pass the theory test, you will receive a certificate, which must be sent on as part of the licence application. The fee to sit the theory test is €36. The test takes about one hour which includes generous pre-test practise time. The test is of the multiple choice type.
If you have never held a licence for a motorised vehicle or have a physical disability that would hamper you controlling a vehicle then it will be necessary for you to get a medical report form (D501) filled in by your local GP.
If you have held a recent licence for a motorised vehicle then you should contact your local motor taxation office and ask if it is necessary.
If you have never held a licence for any category of vehicle or are in some way visually impaired then it will be necessary for you to get an eyesight report form (D.502) filled in and stamped. If you held a recent licence then I would suggest you contact your local motor taxation office and ask them if an eyesight test is necessary. We have heard that the answer can vary from one motor tax office to another.
The last step is to fill in the provisional licence application form. The fee is €15. You can post this or hand it in at your motor tax office. Once it has been accepted and you have paid the fee you are legal although it make take a week or so for the licence itself to finally arrive in the post. Once you have your licence it's time to get those lessons. Nowadays you don't have to buy your own helmet, gloves, jacket, pants or even a bike to do some training.
There are some very good rider training schools that can provide these. Some even have a motorcycle simulator to get you started. So before you go to the expense of buying all of the various bits and pieces, you could take some training and find out if it is for you. Your instructor can advise you on the type and possible cost of buying good quality protective clothing, along with the most suitable bike or even which reputable bike store or dealers to use.
It is a rapidly changing country. Gone are the days when it would be enough for your father, brother, friend or cousin to show you how to ride a bike.
Increasing volumes of traffic on our roads means that you owe it to yourself and your family to equip yourself with the correct knowledge and skills to survive.
Proper training can take you from having never sat on a motorcycle through the national driving test and even on to advanced level.
Come this summer you could well be out and about basking in both the weather and your newfound freedom of motorcycling. If you are, enjoy.