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New Test Deferred Until March 2009

The new test was to be introduced on September 29, 2008, but will now be implemented on March 30, 2009. This follows calls by the MCI to delay the test and representations made to Jim Fitzpatrick, the transport minister, and DSA officials last week by the MCI and other motorcycle bodies.

In July the MCI, supported by the Motorcycle Rider Training Association, Institute of Advanced Motorists, the Motorcycle Action Group and the British Motorcyclists Federation, called for a delay of six months after the disclosure that only 39 of about 60 planned multi-purpose test centres would be ready in time. The MCI said that this reduction from around 260 existing test centres threatened severe consequences for the motorcycle and rider training industries. More importantly, it was likely to adversely affect road safety, with many novices having to ride excessive distances just to take a test.

The new one test event will contain two elements. The Higher speed manoeuvres and other exercises will be tested on safe off-road sites and take about 8 minutes to complete. The accompanied riding element of the test will follow, consisting of a road ride include normal stops, hill and angle starts. Candidates who have exhibited riding skills of a dangerously incompetent level during the off-road part of the test will not be permitted to proceed to the on-road element.

To find out more about the new test click here