The rise of the Baby-Vroomers

The number of over 55s passing their motorcycle tests has increased by more than 80% in the last five years.

Recent analysis of DVSA data from non-standard vehicle finance provider Moneybarn, has revealed the age of people taking motorbike tests is rising, with the number of over 55s increasing by more than 80% in the last five years.

Sixty seems to be the age when many people are deciding to cross getting a motorbike off their bucket list, as the number of people passing tests at this age has more than doubled. The oldest person to pass their test in 2017 was 80.

Research from Saga Insurance has also revealed only one in five socalled ‘silver riders’ uses their bike to commute. Biking is definitely a hobby for the older generation.

In contrast, the number of younger bikers is dropping. The A2 licence allows people to ride motorbikes of up to 35kW and they must be at least 19 years old to take the test. However, the number of 19-year-olds taking tests fell by nearly 20% in the last two years.

The data suggests many are holding out so they can apply for their full A licence, available for those aged 24 and over. It shows more than three times the number of 24-year-olds taking the full A licence test compared with 23-year-olds taking the A2 licence test.

While it’s great to see older riders on the increase, there’s clearly work needed to encourage more women onto motorbikes. According to the DVSA, currently only 8% of people undertaking tests are female. However, it appears this may be moving in the right direction as since 2013, this number has risen by 31%.