John McGuinness column

I have decided that I would like to get my first bike and wondered what the licence rules are. I don’t have a motorcycle licence but have heard that I may not actually need one, depending on the power of the machine I choose. Is this correct?

Gavin, Cheadle

The rules depend on whether you passed your car driving test before or after February 1, 2001. If you passed before this date then you are able to ride a moped with a maximum capacity of 50cc and without L-plates. If you want to ride something between 50cc and 125cc then you will need to take Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). To remove the L-plates or ride a more powerful bike, you will need to take practical tests.

If you passed your car test after 1 February 2001 you have no choice but to take the CBT, and can ride a bike up to 125cc with L-plates. Again, there will be practical tests to pass if you want to remove the L-plates or ride a more powerful machine. Before you take your full

‘As a car driver you can legally ride any trike’

motorcycle licence tests you will also be required to take a motorcycle theory and hazard perception test. Another route to pursue could be a three-wheeler. If you hold a full car licence and are over the age of 21, you can legally ride a trike of any power. This opens up the choice of bikes such as Piaggio’s MP3 (though the new Yamaha Niken doesn’t qualify as a trike as its track is too narrow).