Bike test in later years
Discussion
I've been interested in cars since a teenager and whilst I've always admired bikes as machines I was never into riding them. I'm very much into classic cars, Lotus in particular, and have an Elan in restoration as well as a modern Evora. Previously done the whole Caterham thing as well.
As a rapildy approach the age of 60 I'm increasingly drawn to a classic bike - ideally an old thumper to restore, maintain and plod around on in the summer months. I'm going to view a Velo project on Saturday and some other classics in a friends collection.
But I don't have a licence and have only ridden a motorbike once before though I am a keen mountain and road cyclist so have good balance and bike control. I have many friends who are keen bikers with everything from classic through to Panigales but I'm not intersted in speed just the enjoyement of safe riding and in particular the restoration and maintenance side.
So how easy will it be to get proficient and pass the test at my age? I am not sure where to start or how to go about it and any tips or suggestions would be most welcome as it's something I would like to achieve this year!
As a rapildy approach the age of 60 I'm increasingly drawn to a classic bike - ideally an old thumper to restore, maintain and plod around on in the summer months. I'm going to view a Velo project on Saturday and some other classics in a friends collection.
But I don't have a licence and have only ridden a motorbike once before though I am a keen mountain and road cyclist so have good balance and bike control. I have many friends who are keen bikers with everything from classic through to Panigales but I'm not intersted in speed just the enjoyement of safe riding and in particular the restoration and maintenance side.
So how easy will it be to get proficient and pass the test at my age? I am not sure where to start or how to go about it and any tips or suggestions would be most welcome as it's something I would like to achieve this year!
I really don't see you should have any problem - other than the DVSA have all bike school closed at the moment, so there is a long waiting list for most.
Any bike school should be able to help. read the review and get local info, some are better than others!
Get CBT done asap, that'll let you know if you are a natural. If you are, you should be able to go to direct access for a full licence. If you struggle on CBT it may be worth considering a 125 on L plates for a few months to gain confidence.
The process is
- CBT (allows you to ride up to a 125 on L plates).
- Theory
- Mod 1 (cones in a closed area)
- Mod 2 (road ride followed by an examiner)
Given you have car licence and ride push bikes, I don't see any concerns over your age. Your biggest issue will be course and test availability.
Where in the country are you?
BTW - I am a bike instructor.
Any bike school should be able to help. read the review and get local info, some are better than others!
Get CBT done asap, that'll let you know if you are a natural. If you are, you should be able to go to direct access for a full licence. If you struggle on CBT it may be worth considering a 125 on L plates for a few months to gain confidence.
The process is
- CBT (allows you to ride up to a 125 on L plates).
- Theory
- Mod 1 (cones in a closed area)
- Mod 2 (road ride followed by an examiner)
Given you have car licence and ride push bikes, I don't see any concerns over your age. Your biggest issue will be course and test availability.
Where in the country are you?
BTW - I am a bike instructor.
Edited by OverSteery on Wednesday 3rd February 11:11
OverSteery said:
I really don't see you should have any problem - other than the DVSA have all bike school closed at the moment, so there is a long waiting list for most.
Any bike school should be able to help. read the review and get local info, some are better than others!
Get CBT done asap, that'll let you know if you are a natural. If you are, you should be able to go to direct access for a full licence. If you struggle on CBT it may be worth considering a 125 on L plates for a few months to gain confidence.
The process is
- CBT (allows you to ride up to a 125 on L plates).
- Theory
- Mod 1 (cones in a closed area)
- Mod 2 (road ride followed by an examiner)
Given you have car licence and ride push bikes, I don't see any concerns over your age. Your biggest issue will be course and test availability.
Where in the country are you?
BTW - I am a bike instructor.
Many thanks for this - I'm in north CumbriaAny bike school should be able to help. read the review and get local info, some are better than others!
Get CBT done asap, that'll let you know if you are a natural. If you are, you should be able to go to direct access for a full licence. If you struggle on CBT it may be worth considering a 125 on L plates for a few months to gain confidence.
The process is
- CBT (allows you to ride up to a 125 on L plates).
- Theory
- Mod 1 (cones in a closed area)
- Mod 2 (road ride followed by an examiner)
Given you have car licence and ride push bikes, I don't see any concerns over your age. Your biggest issue will be course and test availability.
Where in the country are you?
BTW - I am a bike instructor.
Edited by OverSteery on Wednesday 3rd February 11:11
Lotobear said:
Many thanks for this - I'm in north Cumbria
Where in North Cumbria? I have a good friend who is an instructer and has put loads of friends and family through their tests, he is based in Kendal, his name is Andy and the website is http://www.northernroute.co.uk/
Thanks for all the comments chaps, appreciated.
I have some 'feelers' out and have located a number of local instructors who I intend to make contact with.
Interesting comment about knocking off bad driving habits - I have certainly picked some of those up and it would be good to have them removed!
I've certainly noticed a reduction is driving concentration and reaction times as I've aged which is one reason why an old classic plodder will suit me just fine.
I have some 'feelers' out and have located a number of local instructors who I intend to make contact with.
Interesting comment about knocking off bad driving habits - I have certainly picked some of those up and it would be good to have them removed!
I've certainly noticed a reduction is driving concentration and reaction times as I've aged which is one reason why an old classic plodder will suit me just fine.
Lotobear said:
Thanks for all the comments chaps, appreciated.
I have some 'feelers' out and have located a number of local instructors who I intend to make contact with.
Interesting comment about knocking off bad driving habits - I have certainly picked some of those up and it would be good to have them removed!
I've certainly noticed a reduction is driving concentration and reaction times as I've aged which is one reason why an old classic plodder will suit me just fine.
Regarding that last comment, once you pass your test I'll give it a year before you want something less of a plodder I have some 'feelers' out and have located a number of local instructors who I intend to make contact with.
Interesting comment about knocking off bad driving habits - I have certainly picked some of those up and it would be good to have them removed!
I've certainly noticed a reduction is driving concentration and reaction times as I've aged which is one reason why an old classic plodder will suit me just fine.
.Best of luck though, it really is a great thing to do, I have been riding 40 years, ex instructor and IAM observer.
It sounds like it shouldn’t be a problem for you. I did all four tests when I was 55 and love it. As mentioned, do the CBT first to see how you find a 125 and being on powered two wheels. A bigger bike will be easier to ride and control so get your theory out the way then enrol on a DAS. Hopefully you can get through these fairly quickly (mine was 6 weeks elapsed time for all). Good luck and enjoy the process. I constantly shoulder check in the car now and have refreshed my Highway Code knowledge as well as taking a theory test for the first time
Hi OP,
I did what you are planning and it is the best thing that I have done for ages!
It really sharpened up my car driving and I now get a great satisfaction from being 100% present whenever I drive a car or ride one of the bikes.
I really enjoy working on the bikes too - so much more accessible than cars and so much cheaper!
If you are going for a classic, do get an electric start if you can and go for the lightest bike that meets your needs. I am guessing that what will eventually stop me is pushing 200+kg around the garage!
Strongly recommended! Enjoy!
I did what you are planning and it is the best thing that I have done for ages!
It really sharpened up my car driving and I now get a great satisfaction from being 100% present whenever I drive a car or ride one of the bikes.
I really enjoy working on the bikes too - so much more accessible than cars and so much cheaper!
If you are going for a classic, do get an electric start if you can and go for the lightest bike that meets your needs. I am guessing that what will eventually stop me is pushing 200+kg around the garage!
Strongly recommended! Enjoy!
Well if it helps I went through the same thought process as yourself. I have cars but there was always an itch to scratch.
At the age of 61 did my CBT and then three months later did the direct access course passing first time.
The daunting bit for me was jumping off a 125 Honda straight onto a 550 Honda which felt so fast but you get used to it.
Hardest bit was the theory and hazard perception test. The test is designed for young people not experienced people, you will see a hazard so far in front but it is not until it becomes a hazard causing you to take action that you start being able to score points .
Again I passed first time but you have to learn to think like a kid and react more. There are plenty of on line tests to try so you get the hang easy enough.
I too wanted a bike to potter on and rebuild, but needed experience so I bought a new Triumph Street Twin. 900cc with ABS, traction control (this was a nod to my daughter who is a Dr in A&E and ITU) which gives a bit more safety possibly. For me it is perfect, looks oldish but ride modern
Spend time getting the right clothes and a good helmet.
But the biggest thing is choosing the right training school. The one I went to failed a lad on the CBT, quite rightly but offered to help him grasp the basics FOC. They were patient and took care that the pace was right for the individual and you felt safe.
Most of my training was in the cold and wet (October) and test at the end of the Month which I hated at the time but it stood me in good stead.
What with Lockdown I have only done 1200 miles on the bike but I really enjoy it and will ride more when I retire. I think it makes your reactions better to be honest as you assume everyone is out to kill you and often it feels that way.
Good Luck
At the age of 61 did my CBT and then three months later did the direct access course passing first time.
The daunting bit for me was jumping off a 125 Honda straight onto a 550 Honda which felt so fast but you get used to it.
Hardest bit was the theory and hazard perception test. The test is designed for young people not experienced people, you will see a hazard so far in front but it is not until it becomes a hazard causing you to take action that you start being able to score points .
Again I passed first time but you have to learn to think like a kid and react more. There are plenty of on line tests to try so you get the hang easy enough.
I too wanted a bike to potter on and rebuild, but needed experience so I bought a new Triumph Street Twin. 900cc with ABS, traction control (this was a nod to my daughter who is a Dr in A&E and ITU) which gives a bit more safety possibly. For me it is perfect, looks oldish but ride modern
Spend time getting the right clothes and a good helmet.
But the biggest thing is choosing the right training school. The one I went to failed a lad on the CBT, quite rightly but offered to help him grasp the basics FOC. They were patient and took care that the pace was right for the individual and you felt safe.
Most of my training was in the cold and wet (October) and test at the end of the Month which I hated at the time but it stood me in good stead.
What with Lockdown I have only done 1200 miles on the bike but I really enjoy it and will ride more when I retire. I think it makes your reactions better to be honest as you assume everyone is out to kill you and often it feels that way.
Good Luck
Once you can, just book yourself onto a CBT and see how you find it.
In my late 30s I'd bought a 125 scooter as a easier commuting tool for a new job. Had to take a CBT and took them up on the offer to try doing it on a geared bike. Loved it so scooter was quickly sold.
A few months practice, watching learning to ride a motorbike / pass your test YouTube videos, one theory test (hadn't needed one when I took my car test) and I booked myself onto a MOD1 test. So amazed to pass I booked a MOD2 the next day. I just snuck through before the rules changes so got an A1 licence that then turned into a unrestricted full licence after 2 years.
I reckon road experience, a healthier regard to risk than a 17 year old, good balance (I also ride mountain and road bikes a lot) and some practice is all you need.
In my late 30s I'd bought a 125 scooter as a easier commuting tool for a new job. Had to take a CBT and took them up on the offer to try doing it on a geared bike. Loved it so scooter was quickly sold.
A few months practice, watching learning to ride a motorbike / pass your test YouTube videos, one theory test (hadn't needed one when I took my car test) and I booked myself onto a MOD1 test. So amazed to pass I booked a MOD2 the next day. I just snuck through before the rules changes so got an A1 licence that then turned into a unrestricted full licence after 2 years.
I reckon road experience, a healthier regard to risk than a 17 year old, good balance (I also ride mountain and road bikes a lot) and some practice is all you need.
Lotobear said:
I've been interested in cars since a teenager and whilst I've always admired bikes as machines I was never into riding them. I'm very much into classic cars, Lotus in particular, and have an Elan in restoration as well as a modern Evora. Previously done the whole Caterham thing as well.
As a rapildy approach the age of 60 I'm increasingly drawn to a classic bike - ideally an old thumper to restore, maintain and plod around on in the summer months. I'm going to view a Velo project on Saturday and some other classics in a friends collection.
But I don't have a licence and have only ridden a motorbike once before though I am a keen mountain and road cyclist so have good balance and bike control. I have many friends who are keen bikers with everything from classic through to Panigales but I'm not intersted in speed just the enjoyement of safe riding and in particular the restoration and maintenance side.
So how easy will it be to get proficient and pass the test at my age? I am not sure where to start or how to go about it and any tips or suggestions would be most welcome as it's something I would like to achieve this year!
I was thinking that old fella wants to be careful then I remembered my next big birthday is 60 too. As a rapildy approach the age of 60 I'm increasingly drawn to a classic bike - ideally an old thumper to restore, maintain and plod around on in the summer months. I'm going to view a Velo project on Saturday and some other classics in a friends collection.
But I don't have a licence and have only ridden a motorbike once before though I am a keen mountain and road cyclist so have good balance and bike control. I have many friends who are keen bikers with everything from classic through to Panigales but I'm not intersted in speed just the enjoyement of safe riding and in particular the restoration and maintenance side.
So how easy will it be to get proficient and pass the test at my age? I am not sure where to start or how to go about it and any tips or suggestions would be most welcome as it's something I would like to achieve this year!
Thanks for all the encouraging words chaps, I'm really excited by the prospect of learning something new.
Quite a few folk have mentioned about doing the CBT and then using a 125 on the road for a bit to develop confidence and riding skill before the big test. I think I will do this - I have my eye on an old Suzuki TC120 which might just fit the bill. Then I really fancy a Velocette MAC!
Quite a few folk have mentioned about doing the CBT and then using a 125 on the road for a bit to develop confidence and riding skill before the big test. I think I will do this - I have my eye on an old Suzuki TC120 which might just fit the bill. Then I really fancy a Velocette MAC!
Lotobear said:
Thanks for all the encouraging words chaps, I'm really excited by the prospect of learning something new.
Quite a few folk have mentioned about doing the CBT and then using a 125 on the road for a bit to develop confidence and riding skill before the big test. I think I will do this - I have my eye on an old Suzuki TC120 which might just fit the bill. Then I really fancy a Velocette MAC!
Good choice! What era MAC are you thinking? We have a swinging arm one, well it’s actually a 64 Viper but with a slightly earlier MAC engine in it. Lovely machine Quite a few folk have mentioned about doing the CBT and then using a 125 on the road for a bit to develop confidence and riding skill before the big test. I think I will do this - I have my eye on an old Suzuki TC120 which might just fit the bill. Then I really fancy a Velocette MAC!
srob said:
Good choice! What era MAC are you thinking? We have a swinging arm one, well it’s actually a 64 Viper but with a slightly earlier MAC engine in it. Lovely machine
With utmost respect to srob, if you like Lotus I can't see why you'd bother with any of that. I started with a Ducati 600SS at 36 and have not looked back.srob said:
Good choice! What era MAC are you thinking? We have a swinging arm one, well it’s actually a 64 Viper but with a slightly earlier MAC engine in it. Lovely machine
There's a lovely looking '51 'concourse' hard tail on Ebay but I'm seeking a bit of a project TBH as part of the motivation is the fettling but I'm keeping an open mind. A Venom would be lovely, a Thruxton simply gorgeous but way out of my league!I'm visiting a friend this weekend who has a large collection of old British bikes and at least one Velo which he says is a 'project' not sure what model but it sounds interesting.
But I do need to rein in my enthusiasm given that I can't even ride one yet!
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