The consequences of failing to prepare for your motorbike test
Preparing for your motorbike test is often one of the most exciting yet stressful periods of your life. Therefore, it is no wonder that many first-time test takers fail based on things that could have been completely avoided. To pass your motorbike test, you not only need to prove that you are a good rider but that you will remain safe when on the roads alone.
This month, AVSCO looks at the most common reasons people fail their motorbike test and how you can improve your skills before you take it to avoid the mistakes others have made.
What happens when you fail your motorbike test?
If you do not pass your motorbike test the first time, you will need to retake the test at a time and date of your choosing – much like failing a driving test. To prevent another failure, take some time to look over your test results and improve the skills that let you down last time to avoid the same mistakes! However, you need to be aware that spaces on the courses are limited, and to book, you will need to pay another course fee to attend.
Common motorbike test mistakes in the UK
Putting down the wrong foot when you stop
You will know from your lessons that putting your right foot down when you stop is a big no-no when riding a motorbike. Your right food controls your rear brake, and you must use both brakes when coming to a stop. If you place your right foot down as you are coming to a stop, it will be evident to your examiner that you have no pressure on your rear brake. Ensure you use your left foot when stopping, as this will ensure you have moved down through your gears before coming to a complete stop.
Speeding
Speeding seems like an obvious thing to avoid during your motorbike test, so you may be surprised at how many people fail their test due to not keeping an eye on your speed. When you are surrounded by other drivers pushing the speed limit, it can be tempting to try and keep up with them to remain safe on the road. Stay below the speed limit, and don’t give in to other pressures around you. Be mindful when travelling downhill, as your bike will naturally pick up some speed.
Failing to notice a stop sign
Failing to see or stop at a stop sign during your test is a common reason why motorbike tests are unsuccessful. Whether you are a bike rider or a car driver, we have all failed to notice a stop sign during our driving lives. Stop signs are often placed for road users’ safety – whether it’s a blind corner, junction onto a fast road or a generally busy road, motorbike riders must take extra care when pulling out of junctions.
Looking in the wrong direction
When riding your bike, you need to be aware of everything going on. Therefore, your head must be in the correct position – head up and looking forward. If you are looking down at your wheels or around you, your examiner will know that you are not focusing on the direction you are going in, and this is very dangerous.
Having a lack of road and safety awareness
As mentioned in the point about, you must be aware of everything going on. If you lack road and safety awareness, you are putting yourself in danger and every other road user around you. Failing to scan the road ahead so you can keep on top of your speed and road position will result in a failure. As a motorbike rider, you should know what’s up ahead for at least 10 seconds so you can accommodate any position and speed changes. Completing your theory test should also support this.
Improving your motorbike skills before your test
Nobody is perfect, and quite often, we will have things to improve on before taking our motorbike tests. If you or your instructor have noticed a skill that needs some improvement, make sure you work on this before taking your test to be confident you are doing things right on the day. By creating a routine when getting on your bike, you will get into riding safely not just during your test but once you have passed.
Any driving or riding test can be stressful, and it’s essential you get through yours confidently and calmly. Ensure you have a good understanding of the highway code, including various signs and signals that are likely to come up during your bike test, so you can respond accordingly and with confidence. Lastly, the night before your test, get a good night’s sleep, avoid alcohol and try to relax and calm your mind.
This may also interest you:
A 2022 guide to choosing the right motorbike insurance
Challenges motorcyclists face on a daily basis
A guide to keeping your motorbike in good condition
AVSCO support you before and during your motorbike test
At AVSCO, we aim to support all our learner riders to pass their test safely and confidently. That’s why we have a range of courses available for different levels of rider – whether you have never ridden a motorbike before, or you passed your test many years ago and just need a light refresher. Our expert instructors are here to support all attendees with their course requirements and will offer extra support and guidance as necessary.
If you are looking to pass your motorbike test in 2022, we recommend getting in touch with AVSCO today so you can learn in a supportive environment and pass your test to become a confident and safe motorbike rider in the future.