On the 27th of April 2009 the Motorcycle test got harder and is now split into two modules, Module 1 and Module 2. Module 1 has to be passed before taking Module 2 and involves some slow riding exercises including a slalom, figure of eight and a u-turn. It also includes 2 higher speed manoeuvres that have to be taken at no less than 50kmph, with a swerve and an emergency stop. For full details go to the DSA web site, http://www.dsa.gov.uk/Category.asp?cat=405
There is no doubt that the hardest part of the new test is achieving the correct speed for the higher speed manoeuvres and you only get 2 chances to get it right. The key to success is knowing what gear to be in when you come around the corner towards the examiner so that you consistently reach the speed without having to look down at your Speedo. We can train for this on the safety of the track and can record you speed by radar so you will be well prepared for the requirements of Module 1.
A pupil coming through the swerve manoeuvre at 54kmph, to watch the video go to www.youtube.com/watch
Module 2 is similar to the old test but without the u-turn and emergency stop, which are now covered in Module 1 and involves a 35 minute ride around the test centre area where we practice before your test.
So how hard is it compared to the old test?
There is no doubt that the new test is harder than the old test and it has received a lot of bad press and quite a lot of scare mongering which we believe to be unfounded. To pass the Mod 1 you need to be a better rider than was previously required for the old test but surely that cant be a bad thing. The swerve manoeuvre has received the greatest criticism but we take the view that if after passing your test you can buy a machine that will accelerate to 60mph in less than 3 seconds, it's not a bad thing to be able to swerve to avoid something at a mere 32mph. By using the track to develop you confidece gradually and under safe conditions the swerve manoeuvre is not a problem but of course very few training schools can offer this facility.
Alex and Charlie were our first 2 pupils to take the new test and they passed both modules first time with flying colours. They both felt well prepared for the Mod 1 after the time we spent on the track. Well done to them both, it was nice to get off to a good start. |
