Pros and Cons of Motorbike Test Centres

Following the changes in EU law, a new test for beginner motorcyclists has been introduced. As a result, new super-testing centres were created by the DSA.

However, these changes were not well received by bikers and proposals to re-establish old-type test centres for motorcyclists resulted in a parliamentary motion. 116 parliamentary members offered their support by signing the proposition to abolish the new practical test and re-introduce smaller centres.

In unison with the proposition, Anthony Aronin, head of Swinton Bikes, motorbike insurance broker stressed the motorcycle industry’s role in the UK economy referring to the decrease in test bookings by 50,000 during eight months after 66 new “super test centres” have been introduced.

Due to these changes, quite a lot of novice motorcyclists have to spend 1-2 hours getting to the nearest test centre, creating many problems. According to Swinton, the "swerve and stop" exercise should be divided into two parts. This manoeuvre is the cause of numerous accidents on the roads and should be taught differently. A more complicated test could dramatically improve the road safety and reduce motorbike insurance claims.