2009 Test

The new test has been in force since the 28th April 2009. There has been a lot of hype surrounding the arrival of the new European test, not only from the motorcycle press, but from motorcycle trainers and the Motorcycle Action Group (MAG).

Some concerns lie with the availability of tests and increased test fees, which is understandable and indeed a serious issue. So far, availability has not been too much of a problem. The location of the MPTC′s (Multi–Purpose Test Centre) has proved awkward. Unbelievably Manchester has not been allocated a permanent MPTC. A part–time one has become available in Chadderton, Oldham (weekends only). Otherwise St.Helens or Atherton, Wigan, are the closest. The test fee is also due to increase from its current £80 (introduced in September 2008, previously £60) to £90 in October 2009. A rise of 50% in just over a year!

Due to all the hype, potential candidates have been concerned about the new car park elements (Part 1). The test introduces some new slow control exercises, the U–turn and emergency stop have been taken from the ′road ride′ (Part 2) making them safer and easier. These elements are to be completed within the car park along with a slalom, figure of eight and high speed swerve. Car park manoeuvres are followed by the road ride at a later date. This will be the same as at present but without the elements above, approximately 40 minutes.

The new test format for car park manoeuvres is as follows:

Click here for larger image

1. Push the motorcycle backwards into a parking bay and place it on a stand (side stand will do)

2. Get onto the bike, start it up and ride through a slalom into a figure of eight − this is currently part of the CBT car park training, so no big deal!

3. Next is the swerve and brake exercise, ride up the car park and round, building up speed as you head back down the straight reaching 50kmph/32mph, swerve round a few cones and stop in a box

4. The U-turn is next in a space which is at least 7.5m wide, no kerbs or cambers to worry about, just two lines of cones − easier than on the ‘road ride’ as at present

5. The examiner then explains the slow ride, ride the bike at walking pace for about 10 metres − easy with some practice!

6. Then you‘re off round the car park again to build up speed for the emergency stop, up to 50kmph/32 mph and into a controlled emergency stop − job done!

Speeds are measured with laser traps, if you do not reach 50 kmph on your first attempt you get another go. More attention during training will be paid to slow control and balance, which can only be a good thing as you‘re less likely to drop your own bike in the future.

In conclusion, as far as we were concerned there are no tricks to the new test. There is inevitably extra time needed for each course, however, we aim to keep disruption and of course the cost, to a minimum as much as possible. Students who have attended the new test have not had any problems so far, with the majority passing.

Go to the DSA website for more information on the new 2009 test.