Motorcycle Theory Test (Category A)

About the Bike Test

Understanding Your Motorcycle Licence Categories

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The UK driving licence system categorizes motorcycle entitlements based on power, weight, and engine size. Understanding these categories is crucial for choosing the right training and ensuring you ride legally.

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Moped Licences:

• Category AM: Allows you to ride 2-wheeled vehicles with a maximum design speed over 25 km/h (15.5 mph) but not more than 45 km/h (28 mph). This category also includes light quad bikes with an unladen mass of not more than 350 kg (excluding batteries for electric vehicles) and a maximum design speed within the same range.
• Category P: Entitles you to ride 2-wheeled vehicles with a maximum design speed over 45 km/h (28 mph) but not more than 50 km/h (31 mph), with an engine size not exceeding 50cc if powered by an internal combustion engine. (Note: This category is being phased out; check GOV.UK for the latest information on moped categories and restrictions.)
• Category Q: Permits you to ride 2-wheeled vehicles with an engine size not more than 50cc (if internal combustion) and a maximum design speed of no more than 25 km/h (15.5 mph).

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Motorcycle Licences:

• Category A1 (Light Motorcycles): Allows you to ride light motorcycles with:
  • An engine size up to 125cc.
  • A maximum power output of 11kW (approximately 14.75 bhp).
  • A power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.1kW/kg. This category also includes motor tricycles with a power output of up to 15kW (approximately 20 bhp).
• Category A2 (Standard Motorcycles): Entitles you to ride motorcycles with:
  • A maximum power output of up to 35kW (approximately 46.6 bhp).
  • A power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.2kW/kg. Crucially, the motorcycle must not be derived from a vehicle of more than double its power. This prevents restricting high-performance bikes to fit the A2 category.
• Category A (Unrestricted Motorcycles): Allows you to ride motorcycles with:
  • A power output more than 35kW (approximately 46.6 bhp).
  • A power-to-weight ratio more than 0.2kW/kg. This category also includes motor tricycles with a power output of more than 15kW (approximately 20 bhp). Access to this category is typically gained through a progressive access route based on age and experience (refer to DVSA and GOV.UK for specific age requirements and pathways).

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Conquering the Motorcycle Theory Test:

Just like the car theory test, the motorcycle theory test assesses your knowledge of the Highway Code, road signs, traffic laws, and safe riding practices. It also includes a hazard perception element specifically tailored to motorcyclists. The test format is the same:

1. Multiple Choice Test: You will face 50 multiple-choice questions, and the pass mark is 43 correct answers. The questions cover topics relevant to motorcycle safety and regulations.
2. Hazard Perception Test: This section uses 14 video clips featuring developing hazards that a motorcyclist might encounter. You need to identify these hazards early by clicking the mouse. The scoring system is the same as the car hazard perception test, with a pass mark of 44 out of a possible 75.

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Maximizing Your Practice with Our Mock Theory Tests:

Our free online theory quizzes are an invaluable tool for learning the Highway Code and preparing for your motorcycle theory test. These randomly generated 50-question tests closely simulate the DVSA multiple-choice exam. Practice consistently until you achieve a 100% score regularly. This indicates a strong understanding of the required knowledge and significantly increases your confidence and chances of passing the actual test. Don’t forget to utilize the hazard perception practice resources linked after each set of questions to hone your hazard identification skills.

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Convenient Learning on Any Device:

Our website is designed to be accessible on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. Bookmark it on your smartphone! This allows you to take quick revision quizzes anytime, anywhere, even right before you enter the test centre to keep the information fresh in your mind.

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Navigating Your Motorcycle Practical Test:

The practical motorcycle test assesses your ability to ride safely and competently in various road conditions. Here are some key areas to focus on:

• Speed Awareness is Crucial: Pay close attention to your speed at all times. It’s easy to unintentionally exceed the limit, especially when going downhill. Regularly check your speedometer and adjust your speed accordingly.
• Mastering Cornering: Always slow down sufficiently before entering a corner. Braking mid-corner can be dangerous and destabilize your motorcycle. Choose an appropriate speed that allows you to maintain control and a smooth line through the bend.
• Observance of Traffic Signs: Never miss a stop sign or other critical traffic signals. Examiners will be meticulously checking your awareness and adherence to all road signs and markings.
• Claiming Your Road Position and Maintaining Buffer Zones: Position yourself correctly on the road to maximize visibility and safety. This often means taking a primary position in your lane. Crucially, maintain adequate buffer zones around your motorcycle and other traffic. This provides you with time and space to react to unexpected situations.
• Safe Following Distance: Always maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle in front. The “two-second rule” (increase to four seconds in poor weather) is a good starting point, but adjust based on speed and conditions.
• The “Lifesaver” Observation: Remember to perform a “lifesaver” observation (a quick glance over your shoulder) before making any manoeuvre that involves changing direction or road position, such as pulling out, changing lanes, or turning. This is a fundamental safety check that examiners will be looking for every time.
• Smooth and Controlled Manoeuvres: Ensure all your manoeuvres (e.g., U-turns, figure of eights in the off-road section) are smooth, controlled, and demonstrate good balance and machine handling.

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By thoroughly preparing for both the theory and practical tests, understanding the specific requirements for each, and adopting a safety-conscious mindset, you’ll be well on your way to obtaining your motorcycle licence and enjoying the freedom of the open road safely.iving.