Frequently Asked Questions
Learning To Ride
What is the best preparation before booking a learner course?
Cycling practice helps maintain balance which is important before learning how to control a motorcycle. Cycling on local roads is ideal because you'll get a clearer picture of how to manage interactions with other road users, pedestrians and potential hazards.
Do I need my own protective gear when attending a learner course?
We recommend that you bring your own helmet and gloves, wear full sleeved clothing, full length trousers and fully covered footwear. We do however have a range of helmets, gloves and wet weather gear if required.
Do you provide a motorcycle for the learner course?
Yes, we have a Suzuki GN125cc motorcycle with a clutch and gears.
Can I use my own motorcycle for the learner course?
Yes however it must be roadworthy and be an approved model (to check the latest list of approved models visit www.nzta.govt.nz/lams).
What is covered in the learner course?
You will be taught basic handling skills in a pre-marked area at one of our venues. This includes moving off, riding straight, stopping, changing gears and cornering. We will also cover looking, use of mirrors, indicators and head-checking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Licencing
Why do I need a motorcycle licence?
Getting a motorcycle licence is a three-step process. At each step, you gain a new licence with fewer requirements and more responsibilities. It helps you build the skills and experience to ride safely on our roads.
What types of motorcycle licence are there?
Learner, restricted and full.
What is the minimum age limit for a motorcycle learner licence?
Sixteen years of age.
How do I get my learner licence?
The learner course covers practical training followed by a test. A certificate is issued on successful completion.
You will then sit a theory test at your nearest VTNZ or AA outlet. This online test is 35 multi-choice questions with 32 correct answers to pass. You will then be issued with a paper temporary licence after completing an eyesight test and photo ID.
What is the minimum time limit between a learners licence and restricted licence?
You must be 16.5 years of age and have held a learner licence for six months. There is no time limit for learner licence holders older than 16.5 years of age.
How do I get my restricted licence?
Your 45-60 min practical riding assessment follows a pre-set route and specific tasks and competencies will be assessed. Beforehand your protective gear, bike compliance and roadworthiness, Registration & WOF labels and L plate will be checked. Afterwards, you will be given feedback on improvement areas. Preparation is highly recommended by booking our Restricted Test with one or two hour options. On successful completion you will be issued with a certificate in exchange for your new licence at your nearest VTNZ or AA outlet.
What is the minimum time limit between a restricted licence and a full licence?
One year.
What is the minimum age limit for a motorcycle full licence?
17.5 years of age.
How do I get my full licence?
Your 25-30 min practical riding assessment follows a pre-set route and specific tasks and competencies will be assessed. Beforehand your protective gear, bike compliance and roadworthiness and Registration & WOF labels will be checked. Afterwards, you will be given feedback on improvement areas. Preparation is highly recommended by booking our Full Test with one or two hour options. On successful completion you will be issued with a certificate in exchange for your new licence at your nearest VTNZ or AA outlet.
Can I ride a moped with a car learner licence?
Yes.
Can I carry passengers?
You can only carry passengers after obtaining a full licence.
Can I ride any time of day or night?
Learner and restricted licence holders are only permitted to ride between 5am and 10pm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Motorcycles and Mopeds
What is a Learner Approved Motorcycle (LAMS)?
A LAMS motorcycle is a restricted motorcycle. Learner and Restricted licence holders may only use a LAMS motorcycle. To check the latest list of approved LAMS models visit www.nzta.govt.nz/lams.
What is the best LAMS motorcycle for my first bike?
We recommend sitting on as many bikes as possible as their personal comfort levels vary greatly. Check that your feet can reach the ground and that your arms aren’t stretched too far forward.
What is a moped?
A moped is 50cc or lower with a maximum speed of 50kph. Mopeds are not permitted to travel on motorways.
Can I learn and get my licence on an automatic scooter?
Yes, automatic scooters sold in NZ range are LAMS approved. To check the latest list of LAMS models visit www.nzta.govt.nz/lams.
Does a moped need a registration (Rego) and Warrant of Fitness (WoF)?
A moped is legally required to hold a current Rego and not required to hold a WoF however it must be roadworthy.
What regular checks should I do on my moped or motorcycle?
Here is an easy way to remember:
P - Petrol (check every time you ride)
O - Oil (check lubricant once a week)
W - Water (check coolant once a week)
D - Damage (check for any signs)
E - Electrics (check headlights, indicators, brake lights once a week)
R - Rubber (check cold tyre pressures once a week)
Y - You (Check your gear, hydration, energy, and alertness every time you ride)
Frequently Asked Questions
Riding Gear and Equipment
What am I legally required to wear?
A helmet showing an approval label to one or more standards (NZS 5430, AS1698, UN/ECE22, BS6658, JIS T8133, Snell).
What are your buying tips for a new rider?
Always try a helmet on to ensure correct fit.
Ensure gloves give good protection and unrestricted movement.
Footwear that fully covers your feet and protects the ankles.
Think about when you will ride (dry, wet, hot, cold, day, night) when deciding on style of riding jackets and trousers.
Why is wearing bright coloured clothing a good idea?
You are more likely to be seen and reduce the risk of an accident if at least one item of your clothing is brightly coloured or even better, high viz.
Do helmets have an expiry date?
Change your helmet every five years or sooner in the case of it being dropped. The manufacture date is located underneath the inner lining or on the fastening strap.
Motorcycle clothing prices from some overseas online shops seem so cheap. Should I avoid buying from these outlets?
Yes. For peace of mind always buy from a reputable NZ retailer. This means you have access to local expertise, the convenience of trying on before you buy and replacement warranty in the event of any product defects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ride Cloud 9 Courses
If there isn’t a course available on my preferred booking date will you be able to make one available?
We will do our absolute best to help. Our booking dates are normally published two months in advance. Just call or drop us a line and we’ll be delighted to help.
Your cancellation policy states that no refunds are issued within four days of a booked course. Why is that?
Many of our courses have people wait-listed. Whilst we do our best to fill cancelled bookings, we may not always be able to do so. If, however we fill your cancelled booking, you will be transferred to a new booking date for your course at no extra cost.
What advice would give to someone who is returning after a long break from riding?
Call us and let’s have a chat so that we can match the right course option for your specific needs.
What is your Covid-19 vaccine policy?
In accordance with the Covid-19 Protection Framework (Traffic Light System) and to protect our whānau we require proof of vaccination. Thanks heaps for your understanding.
I like meeting new people and learning in groups, what options would you recommend?
Great! Check out our RideSafe Group Rider 4 hour courses. Designed for two to four people we tailor the coaching to the individual needs of our riders.