Do I have to ride a restricted motorcycle on a provisional licence?
Yes, the rules are a bit complicated on this issue. The machine does NOT have to have a capacity limit on its engine size, but a power-to-weight ratio limit of 0.16kw/kg, or make no more than 33bhp. These are EU rules and difficult to understand without the aid of a calculator and the technical spec on a particular motorcycle. In short, a typical large sportsbike, like say an R1, Fireblade or Ducati 749 will NOT be available for learner riders, but bikes with relatively modest power – yet still carrying a fair bit of weight – like say a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide – may well be OK. Your safest bet is to start on something reasonably small, light in weight and easy to handle in all conditions as a novice rider. Bikes like the Honda CBF500, Yamaha Fazer 600, Kawasaki Versys etc are all ideal and a motorcycle dealer will be able to restrict your machine to 33bhp if needed.Note; once you pass your motorcycle category A licence test you STILL have to ride a restricted 33bhp machine for tw
