Until you complete your practical motorcycle test you are still classed as a learner and should therefore display L plates. In line with the Highway Code, learners are prohibited from using a motorway so therefore you must wait until you have completed your motorcycle test.

A CBT certificate is only valid for riding in the UK so you cannot use this to ride abroad. You would have to check on the local laws in the country you are intending to visit.

If you have completed your practical motorcycle test and have a motorcycle licence (restricted or unrestricted) then you can ride abroad under the conditions of your UK issued licence. So if you are on an A1 or A2 licence, the restrictions placed on you for what machine you can ride will be the same abroad as it is in the UK.

Becoming a motorcycle instructor is not for everyone. It is hard work requiring a lot of patience and understanding. The days are long and the weather unpredictable, however the rewards are great.

You will need to have held a motorcycle licence for at least 3 Years to be able to train as a motorcycle instructor. If you would like to know more then please contact us and we will be happy to explain the process in more detail.

A motorcycle is most reliable when it is maintained and looked after. To help with this you can carry out regular checks on your motorcycle to help identify any potential problems before they become too serious.

One set of checks you can adopt for this is POWDDERS

Petrol

• Keep your tank at least one quarter full to avoid running out on your journey. This will help you to avoid breaking down on a busy road or motorway and potentially putting yourself and others at risk.
• Also check and make sure you know there is the correct fuel on route. With the introduction of E10 fuel, many filling stations no longer stock E5 fuel that some of the older bike need to run on.

Oil

• Maintaining the correct oil level is essential to prevent your engine from seizing up and breaking down.

Water

• Check the level of coolant.
• On long journeys, keep a sealed bottle of water on your bike, for emergencies.

Damage

• Check the vehicle for damage, including any loose fixings.

Drive

• Check your chain for tension, damage & lubrication. Ensure the sprockets are in a good condition too.

Electrics

• Check all of the lights are in working order - they are not only essential for you; they are also essential for other drivers to understand how you are driving your vehicle and how you intend to manoeuvre.
• Check items such as heated grips & phone accessories / charging points to ensure they are all working and do not trip out.

Rubber

• The minimum tread depth for motorcycle tyres in the UK is 1.0mm. Visually check both walls of each tyre to make sure there are no cracks starting to form due to lack of use or age.
• You could receive a fine and 3 penalty points per tyre if you have illegal tyres.
• Driving with underinflated or overinflated tyres can adversely affect your braking distance, steering, fuel efficiency and lifetime of your tyres.

Self

• Make sure you are well rested and are not under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Plan your route and plan breaks during your journey.
• Make sure you are free from external factors that may affect your ride such as stress & emotions.