As basic training for motorcyclists is due to be introduced, John Wheeler argues that the test also needs reform
Few, if any, experienced riders would consider that in its present form a pass in the driving - or riding - test for scooters and motorcycles indicates much more than a very basic skill level. Virtually all tests take place within a 30 mph limit, in daylight and in many cases the course used could have few, if any, traffic lights, no roundabouts and no dual carriageway sections.
The examiner commonly follows the candidate in a car, without being in radio contact with the candidate. Quite often the examiner gets left behind in the traffic.
However, from October 1st we will begin to see some modest changes. Candidates will be asked by the examiner to confirm that the rider's safety equipment: helmet, clothing, is properly adjusted.
At some point during the test, the candidate will be asked three random questions, on topics such as tyres, lights, reflector, indicators, brakes, steering, oil levels, chain, horn and the emergency "kill" switch. The candidate is expected to know how to check that any of these items are functioning correctly.
You are not expected to be a mechanic, just to know if an item is faulty and needs fixing.
Other elements include putting the machine off and on its stand, (the examiner will accept either the use of a centre stand if fitted, or a side stand).
Next comes the requirement to move the machine four to five metres without the aid of the engine. This could cause some riders a problem. Some large, heavy machines, for example a Honda Gold Wing, are far from easy to move without power and, if not done with skill and caution, there is a very real risk of dropping the machine; in a worst case scenario ending up being trapped underneath it.
There is a safe way to do this, and it needs to be learned. The thinking behind this manoeuvre is that if you were attempting to take a right turn and the engine cut out, you need to show how, without power, you can get the machine out of the way of the traffic.
The existing U-turn and 50 metres slow ride manoeuvres will remain part of the test. Examiners will continue to use the standard marking sheet introduced a year ago. This sheet is, unfortunately, designed to cover all types of vehicles used in test situations.
At long last a start has been made, very much on an experimental basis, with the use of radio communication between the examiner and the candidate at the Kilkenny Test Centre.
Regrettably, the standard procedure of having the examiner in a car is expected to continue. One argument being that the examiner has to carry the clipboard with the test sheet.
Yet instructors involved in rider training can manage to remember all the elements of much longer rides and complete a rider assessment from recall.
Meanwhile the examiner is presumed to be able to mark the test sheet whilst driving his car.
The examiner still only has a 50-minute gap between tests. Apart from the actual test itself, s/he still needs time to complete and sign off the test sheet.
Looking further ahead, more changes will be required to the test by 2008 due to an EU Directive. Amongst other things will be the requirement to perform two manoeuvres at slow speed including a slalom; weaving between 12 14 cones set five metres apart in a continuous, well-balanced manner.
A further two manoeuvres at higher speed will be required: avoiding an obstacle at both 30 kph and 50 kph. These requirements will mean that test centres will have to have sufficient off-road space to accommodate them and, presumably, examiners will need a speed camera device to measure the speed at which the avoidance manoeuvres are performed.
It is difficult to see where most of the existing test centres will find the space for these manoeuvres. This could well result in fewer, dedicated motorcycle test centres.
By then, hopefully, the current practice of having the examiner following in a car could be a thing of the past?
With all the changes on the way, if you are one of that 56 or so per cent of motorcyclists still riding around on a provisional licence, it might be a good idea to prove your competence sooner rather than later.