BikeStormer

The new bike test comes into effect in a couple of months; and it's going to make it a bit harder to pass the test which isn't a bad thing. I definitely approve of getting new riders getting better training before they ride although personally I think it would be better if the new parts of the test were actually added to the CBT instead. If these skills are so important shouldn't people have them before they get on the road on any bike?

People in the industry are worried that the harder test will make people less likely to take up riding, but that's not the real issue here. The real issue is the demands it's making on the test centres.

The new test requires a vast area of tarmac for candidates to wobble around as the practice emergency stops and figures of eight. When the changes on the test come into effect only half the test centres will be ready. The test is also now longer so examiners will be able to conduct fewer tests over the course of the day.

It's going to be a massive bottleneck making it much harder for people to get into riding – even if they are good enough to pass just getting an assessment is going to be a struggle. If new people aren't taking up riding what sort of effect is that going to have on the industry?

It's going to be interesting to see what sort of effect this all has on bike sales, especially in London. There still isn't a test centre for South London, and there won't be for a while as the DSA can't find a suitable site.

Sam