5 motorcycle rules every motorbike rider should know

UK motorbike rules are subject to change and reform.

Therefore, whether you’re a new motorbike rider or you have been for some time, it’s always worth reminding yourselves of the rules.

Are you old enough?

Did you know that the legal minimum age requirement for riding motorcycles and mopeds differ?

Though you might be able to ride a moped at 16-years-old, you’ll have to be at least 17 to ride a motorcycle of up to 11 kW.

For a standard sized, more powerful motorcycle of 35kW, the age requirement is 19-years-old.

For unrestricted motorcycles in size and power, and motor tricycles with power output over 15 kW, riders wishing to take their test will need to be either 19 or 24-years-old depending on the kind of access test they chose to take.

If you take the direct access route, which involves a CBT, theory and practical test then you must be at least 24-years-old.

Alternatively, if you take the progressive access route, and have held an A2 license for a minimum of 2 years, you will take a practical test and you’ll have to be 21-years-old or over.

License please

If you held a motorcycle or moped license before 19 January 2013 then you’ll keep your existing entitlements and can still ride the same kind of bikes as you’re used to.

However, if you get a new license your entitlements may differ.

Riders will have to follow the new rules if you’re wanting to get higher entitlements, including riding a larger bike.

To get a motorcycle license, you’ll need to: 

• Apply for a provisional license if you don’t already have a car license 
• Ensure your vehicle has a valid V5C registration certificate, is taxed, and has an MOT if needed 
• Pass the relevant theory and practical motorcycle tests

Which category?

The UK has different license categories for riding motorcycles, mopeds, and motor tricycles, with different minimum ages and requirements.

Here is a list of the license categories so you’ll have a better idea of which one to apply for:

• A1 : For light motorcycles up to 125 cc and 11 kW, or motor tricycles with a power output of up to 15 kW. The minimum age is 17. 
• A2 : For standard motorcycles up to 35 kW. The minimum age is 19. 
• A : For unrestricted motorcycles and motor tricycles with a power output over 15 kW. The minimum age is 24 for direct access, or 21 for progressive access. 
• AM : For mopeds, tricycles, or quad bikes with an engine capacity of up to 50 cc and a maximum speed of up to 28 mph. The minimum age is 16. 

Strap up!

In the UK, all riders and passengers of motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters must wear a safety helmet that meets British safety standards while riding.

The penalty for riding a motorbike without a helmet in the UK is a fine of up to £500, or an official warning. 

In addition to the penalty, not wearing a helmet could invalid your insurance.

There’s no law about wearing protective clothing, but specialised motorcycle wear is highly recommended – it could save your life.

Visors and goggles

Your visors or goggles must comply with either:

• a British Standard and displays a BSI Kitemark
• a European standard which offers a level of safety and protection at least equivalent to the British Standard and carries a mark equivalent to the BSI Kitemark (ECE 22-05)