Getting my mid-life crisis

[Kier]

The more I think about it, the more I want to get a motorbike, I've only ever ridden one, round my mates garden, and looking though the local paper I found the campaign 'Get On', where a few bike shops are giving free taster sessions, I'm going to hopefully get booked onto these, just need to find out when they are doing them.

What I still can't understand is what bikes I'll be allowed to drive, I've heard lots of different things, some saying I don't need to take a CBT, others saying that I do. I've heard that once I get to 21, I'll be able to do a direct test, which will let me drive any sized bike without it being restricted, but if I do it now, I'll be restricted to 33bhp for two years, or until I do my full test. Is this correct?

If I have got the above correct, is it worth waiting until I turn 21?

Thanks .

 

[P100 GRR]

If you're under 21 you will be limited to 33bhp power output for two years from passing your test.

If you're over 21 you can choose to do the same test on a learner legal bike (125cc) and face the same restriction if you pass, or you can do a direct access course where you learn and take your test on a larger machine and if you pass you face no restriction.

Obviously in any case nowadays you need to initially do a CBT to get started, which lasts for 2 years. If you don't take your bike test within the two years you have to redo the CBT to continue riding.

I've been riding now for the last 12 years and wish I'd done it earlier

Unfortunately I can't afford to keep my Pan European so will be selling it shortly

 

[ThisBitterPill]

I did the Get On thing at the local Yamaha dealer....It was a really good taster with absolutely no obligation....I enjoyed it, but I am yet to take it any further....

 

[Kier]

Thanks for the replies .

Going to wait until I turn 21 so I can do the Direct Access, and give me a chance to save some money. Anyone know roughly what I'll be looking at paying? Including hire of bike and clothes etc.

What bikes are good for starters? I like the look of superbikes, but have no idea what they'll be like for comfort etc...plus maybe not a good idea to go for something so powerful as a first bike .