New riders are baby-vroomers
Number of over-55s passing test rockets – as teens plummet
The average age of those taking their bike test is rising with the number of over-55s getting onto two wheels increasing by over 80% in the last five years, according to the latest figures. Analysis of recent DVSA test data by Moneybarn has found that the silver surfer effect is now spreading to include the silver biker. Sixty seems to be the age many discover the incurable itch, as the number taking their test at this age has more than doubled. Incidentally, the oldest person taking their test last year was an impressive 80-years-old. Research also revealed that only one-in-five over-60s use their bikes for commuting, probably because most in that age category are a) retired and, b) are interested in motorcycling purely as a leisure pursuit. No scientifically-proven reasons for the rise have been put forward but theories include an aging population with increasing time and money for leisure pursuits plus a growing choice of retro bikes which rekindle youthful memories for this age group. By contrast, the number of young riders taking their test is, worryingly, continuing to fall.
When the test was changed to the A, A1 and A2 licencing system in 2013, over 6000 17-18 years old were taking their test annually. This has since plummeted to just 500.
Critics have observed that a young person who wants to start on a 125 machine today and then progress through the system, would require seven tests in four years.
In response, the DVSA proposed considerable changes earlier this year, including easier licence upgrade training, but any changes are still a long way off.
Number of 55★ riders taking bike test is up by 80% LATEST DVSA TEST DATA