Learner/Newbie Sticky All Learner/newbie/Starter Questions Go here!!**

RosieJoe · 09-01-2012 2:22pm

KingIsabella wrote: »

So for example, whether it's factory restricted or after market restricted wouldnt really make a difference as long as its restricted? AFAYK?

Would be with the likes of Quinn. That's why 2nd hand Factory Restricted bikes are usually dearer as you can get the cheaper insurance quotes.

Sitec · 14-01-2012 8:22pm

I'm contemplating buying a bike, what would you recommend as a first bike? I really like the CBR 250. Would this be too much for a first bike? I'm 25 on a provisional how much should insurance cost? Even a ballpark figure. Thanks.

daenerysstormborn3 · 14-01-2012 11:35pm

Sitec wrote: »

I'm contemplating buying a bike, what would you recommend as a first bike? I really like the CBR 250. Would this be too much for a first bike? I'm 25 on a provisional how much should insurance cost? Even a ballpark figure. Thanks.

250 definitely wouldn't be too much. A lot of beginners can manage a 400. If any of your friends/family are on bikes have a sit on them, see how you feel with the different weights.

As regards in surance, I'm female, 24, with Quinn FC €440 approx. On CB400 and CBR250

RosieJoe · 14-01-2012 11:42pm

Biggest warning you'll get is that as a faired bike it'll cost you if you drop it

Sitec · 15-01-2012 12:08am

pixiebean22 wrote: »

250 definitely wouldn't be too much. A lot of beginners can manage a 400. If any of your friends/family are on bikes have a sit on them, see how you feel with the different weights.

As regards in surance, I'm female, 24, with Quinn FC €440 approx. On CB400 and CBR250

Cheers for the reply, I'm not sure if I could trust myself with any more than 250cc starting off. Got an on-line quote of €840 which is within budget, it's still a lot of money when you add training a helmet and gear etc.

I'm going to make a few phone calls Monday and try get a better quote than Quinn gave me.

Merch · 15-01-2012 12:12am

Definitely ring around rather than relying on quinn/any online quote I'd imagine, I got much better quotes over the phone.

daenerysstormborn3 · 15-01-2012 12:42am

Definitely ring around. Even ring Quinn and see what they can do for you over the phone.

Miglo · 08-02-2012 8:39pm

Hi,

My driving test day is closing and I'm thinking to take few hours of pre test lessons.
Can anyone recommend good instructor in Dublin area?

Thanks!

RosieJoe · 09-02-2012 12:01pm

Where are you doing your test?

I'd recommend Dave Lyons, like most will. He is a great instructor.

There are lads that were instructors for Fingal CoCo that might suit if you are doing your test on the north side.

Miglo · 09-02-2012 12:19pm

RosieJoe wrote: »

Where are you doing your test?

I'd recommend Dave Lyons, like most will. He is a great instructor.

There are lads that were instructors for Fingal CoCo that might suit if you are doing your test on the north side.

I'm doing test in Finglas.

RosieJoe · 09-02-2012 12:52pm

Austin McDowell would also be recommended. He is an instructor from the Final Star Rider program.

Check here for AON's Instructos listings for names/numbers/websites

The Big Fella · 16-02-2012 10:15pm

Well lads Im 20 and I have a full car driving licence for two years. I want to get into biking. I had a honda cr125 scrambler for off roading before and Im now thinking of yamaha dt125r for the road. I basically want it for tipping around during the summer and a bit of off roading. The 125cc two stroke bike I had was an animal to go and I like the look of the dt125r. My question is do I still have to do the theory and eyesight test? I see you have to do a 16hr course before your allowed drive unsupervised. It seems like some dung to get out on the road.:P

paul75 · 17-02-2012 11:05am

The Big Fella wrote: »

Well lads Im 20 and I have a full car driving licence for two years. I want to get into biking. I had a honda cr125 scrambler for off roading before and Im now thinking of yamaha dt125r for the road. I basically want it for tipping around during the summer and a bit of off roading. The 125cc two stroke bike I had was an animal to go and I like the look of the dt125r. My question is do I still have to do the theory and eyesight test? I see you have to do a 16hr course before your allowed drive unsupervised. It seems like some dung to get out on the road.:P

You have to do the whole lot regardless of what other license you hold. Get your photos signed by cops, do the theory test (little different for motorbike), if you pass you get the cert which you send to your local authority with the provisional license application (category A), then do your 16 hours (called IBT 1, 2, 3, and 4). IBT 1 is 4 hours intro to biking (equipment, different parts of bike, putting up the stand etc.) IBT 2 is 4 hours of actually riding the bike (not on the road but in the car park or whatever the driving school will have) - you do slalom, figure of eight etc. IBT 3 is 2 hours in the classroom learning about safety, how to ride the bike safely etc. IBT 4 is 6 hours out on the road with an instructor.
Then you can ride a bike unsupervised

RosieJoe · 17-02-2012 11:09am

The Big Fella wrote: »

Well lads Im 20 and I have a full car driving licence for two years. I want to get into biking. I had a honda cr125 scrambler for off roading before and Im now thinking of yamaha dt125r for the road. I basically want it for tipping around during the summer and a bit of off roading. The 125cc two stroke bike I had was an animal to go and I like the look of the dt125r. My question is do I still have to do the theory and eyesight test? I see you have to do a 16hr course before your allowed drive unsupervised. It seems like some dung to get out on the road.:P

No to eye test, yes to theory test and everything else.

Edit: What he said ^

byrner88 · 29-02-2012 2:30pm

Were can I buy the theory test disk? Or is the book better?

P.C. · 29-02-2012 4:05pm

byrner88 wrote: »

Were can I buy the theory test disk? Or is the book better?

Most book shops sell them.
So, places like Easons, Reads, etc.

The disc is better, as it is very close to the way the test is (I think).

oleras · 29-02-2012 10:59pm

byrner88 wrote: »

Were can I buy the theory test disk? Or is the book better?

Library will also cary the latest edition and its free, you only really need to read the book 2 or 3 times.

Dave Joyce · 04-03-2012 2:55pm

Oh my Jesus, been away from things for a while is shi'te :mad: I'm 47 and have been riding bikes for the guts of 30 years but never bothered doing the test in the day cause it was expensive and a load of bullocks at the time. I built a house about 7/8 years ago and it put paid to the bikes (still have a Gixer and a 77 GS750) as I let my insurance run out and also let my provisional licence lapse as well.

After reading the previous post, is that the only option I have at the moment cause if it is, its fuvking depressing apart from expensive. I've just about saved enough to try to get one of my bikes back on the road but if I have to do the bs lessons, then I'm screwed :mad::mad::mad:

GBX · 04-03-2012 3:26pm

Unfortunately thats how it is Dave, Its all coming from Europe.
We as a nation have a lot of riders with no training in any shape or form on the road ... a lot of those are highly competent riders, but training shouldnt be seen as a bad thing (Thats not aimed at yerself!)
And I agree its expensive and off putting for lads starting out.

paul75 · 12-03-2012 3:43pm

Folks,
Apologies in advance if this question was answered before. I'm new to biking and have just bought an '07 Yamaha FZ 600 which is factory restricted.
The insurance company want a copy of the restriction cert. Where can I get the cert? Should the guy who sold it to me have the cert?

RosieJoe · 12-03-2012 4:52pm

Factory Restricted bikes don't come with a cert. The log book indicates the power so should suffice. This is how it works for me on a Factory Restricted Bandit.

paul75 · 12-03-2012 5:13pm

RosieJoe wrote: »

Factory Restricted bikes don't come with a cert. The log book indicates the power so should suffice. This is how it works for me on a Factory Restricted Bandit.

Thanks RosieJoe

i8mancs · 02-04-2012 12:15am

Hi i am 36 and lookin to get back on a bike, I have to sit the theory test the IBT. Is it possible to get a Xl 1000cc Varadero with a restrictor kit or does this exceed the power to weight ratio? Also if this is not possible is there a list of bikes that are above 125cc that can be used with restrictors fitted?

eurofoxy · 02-04-2012 11:08am

i8mancs wrote: »

Hi i am 36 and lookin to get back on a bike, I have to sit the theory test the IBT. Is it possible to get a Xl 1000cc Varadero with a restrictor kit or does this exceed the power to weight ratio? Also if this is not possible is there a list of bikes that are above 125cc that can be used with restrictors fitted?

any bike can be restricted no matter the cc, the bigger question is should you restrict it? as big 1000cc+ bikes do tend to not taking to restriction too well, i have however ridden 1250cc restricted bikes that were very nice bikes, my former bike was a CBR600 and it was a pain to ride restricted as it tended to flatten out just when you needed power the most, but maybe that was down to the restriction method that was used..

but i am sure there are loads out there with big bikes that are restricted and run fine. if you are happy riding something heavy thats restricted then i say go find one similar thats restricted and test it out and see if you can ride it. if not then maybe its best to just sit out the 2 years or so on a smaller bike then get yourself a nice present when the 2 years are up...

Tybalt · 03-04-2012 7:44pm

Can your first bike licence be an A licence as long as you are old enough? Or do you have to have a M or an A1 first?

Also, would anyone think that a Suzuki Burgman AN250 would be ok for a complete beginner?

RosieJoe · 03-04-2012 10:00pm

Tybalt wrote: »

Can your first bike licence be an A licence as long as you are old enough? Or do you have to have a M or an A1 first?

Also, would anyone think that a Suzuki Burgman AN250 would be ok for a complete beginner?

Yep, you can go straight for the A license.

i8mancs · 08-04-2012 12:09am

Hi Everybody after passing the theory test and completing the IBT am I right in saying that you cannot apply to do the test for the full license for at least 6 months and if this is the case is there any circumstances were you can sit the test earlier if say you needed the bike for work ie. company vechicle? thanks in advance

LookBehindYou · 08-04-2012 12:49am

i8mancs wrote: »

Hi Everybody after passing the theory test and completing the IBT am I right in saying that you cannot apply to do the test for the full license for at least 6 months and if this is the case is there any circumstances were you can sit the test earlier if say you needed the bike for work ie. company vechicle? thanks in advance

You can apply after 4 months from the date of issue of your learner permit, because it takes at least 8 weeks to get a test. The test date has to be at least 6 calender months from the date of issue of your learner permit, so if you get an earlier date, just postpone it until after the timeframe.

LookBehindYou · 08-04-2012 12:54am

i8mancs wrote: »

Hi i am 36 and lookin to get back on a bike, I have to sit the theory test the IBT. Is it possible to get a Xl 1000cc Varadero with a restrictor kit or does this exceed the power to weight ratio? Also if this is not possible is there a list of bikes that are above 125cc that can be used with restrictors fitted?

Insurance cost would be expensive on a Varadero 1000 .
You can get a factory restricted V Strom 650 which is a lower grouping for insurance, and it is same type of bike as the varadero.

i8mancs · 08-04-2012 9:19am

LookBehindYou wrote: »

You can apply after 4 months from the date of issue of your learner permit, because it takes at least 8 weeks to get a test. The test date has to be at least 6 calender months from the date of issue of your learner permit, so if you get an earlier date, just postpone it until after the timeframe.

Thanks LookbehindYou talk about leaving things to the last minute, its not looking good to have all this completed before January, what way would I be fixed if I dont pass my test before these new license changes come into effect?

i8mancs · 08-04-2012 9:34am

LookBehindYou wrote: »

Insurance cost would be expensive on a Varadero 1000 .
You can get a factory restricted V Strom 650 which is a lower grouping for insurance, and it is same type of bike as the varadero.

Only came across these after putting up post about Varadero, nice bike, any idea what be ball park insurance cost would be for 36 year old mid life crisis and all that on a learner permit?

LookBehindYou · 08-04-2012 9:51am

i8mancs wrote: »

Thanks LookbehindYou talk about leaving things to the last minute, its not looking good to have all this completed before January, what way would I be fixed if I dont pass my test before these new license changes come into effect?

You already have your Learner permit, so it should not affect you.

LookBehindYou · 08-04-2012 9:56am

i8mancs wrote: »

Only came across these after putting up post about Varadero, nice bike, any idea what be ball park insurance cost would be for 36 year old mid life crisis and all that on a learner permit?

Factory restricted V Strom 650 is a group 5 or 6 bike, so should cost less than 500 euro for you.

(The vehicle reg book will have the power stated as 25 kw on a factory restricted bike) so no need for cert.

cocoshovel · 11-04-2012 10:59pm

Should be noted that the theory test has now risen to €45 and the full test has risen to €85. Makes me sick.

Please Kill Me · 11-04-2012 11:23pm

cocoshovel wrote: »

Should be noted that the theory test has now risen to €45 and the full test has risen to €85. Makes me sick.

What?? :eek: That's fukin' ridiculous!! :mad:

Doylers · 12-04-2012 1:16pm

cocoshovel wrote: »

Should be noted that the theory test has now risen to €45 and the full test has risen to €85. Makes me sick.

One more reason not to fail the first time round.

galwaytt · 12-04-2012 6:43pm

RosieJoe wrote: »

Yep, you can go straight for the A license.

....just a heads-up: ...if you do your test on the Burgman, you'll get a Restricted licence (i.e. for automatics only..........), and you won't be able to ride a 'geared' bike.

The reverse does not apply.

galwaytt · 12-04-2012 7:04pm

....oh, and, another thing.........is there anywhere online I can look up (Irish-) relevant insurance groupings for bikes ?

Long story short: the S.O. has a full licence even longer than I have, and been riding bikes longer as well. A few years ago, Life (a.k.a kids :rolleyes: ) took over, and she sold the bike. Now she wants to go back on the bike(s), and............here 16 years NCB is..........gone, and she has to start over.

She won't ride a small bike, end of. I have managed to ascertain that a middleweight, even restricted bike, would do the job (F650 comes to mind, and it's what she had before), but short of ringing the insurer every second day, it's turning into a pain to pick a 'bike and find out IF she can afford the insurance on any given bike. Fr'instance, I'd have thought a mid 90's GPz500 twin wouldn't be outrageous....found a few nice ones........but, apparently, ins co's don't agree with me : Group 8 ? :eek: Found an old reasonable 94 GSX600F...same story. FFS, these are nigh-on 20yr old bikes. The two bikes above are only 1 group lower than my GSX-R 750.....

So, any ideas where I could just look up a list of 'Group 5 or 6 bikes', and I can thumb through it ?

Ride Safe · 13-04-2012 11:27am

galwaytt wrote: »

....oh, and, another thing.........is there anywhere online I can look up (Irish-) relevant insurance groupings for bikes ?

Long story short: the S.O. has a full licence even longer than I have, and been riding bikes longer as well. A few years ago, Life (a.k.a kids :rolleyes: ) took over, and she sold the bike. Now she wants to go back on the bike(s), and............here 16 years NCB is..........gone, and she has to start over.

She won't ride a small bike, end of. I have managed to ascertain that a middleweight, even restricted bike, would do the job (F650 comes to mind, and it's what she had before), but short of ringing the insurer every second day, it's turning into a pain to pick a 'bike and find out IF she can afford the insurance on any given bike. Fr'instance, I'd have thought a mid 90's GPz500 twin wouldn't be outrageous....found a few nice ones........but, apparently, ins co's don't agree with me : Group 8 ? :eek: Found an old reasonable 94 GSX600F...same story. FFS, these are nigh-on 20yr old bikes. The two bikes above are only 1 group lower than my GSX-R 750.....

So, any ideas where I could just look up a list of 'Group 5 or 6 bikes', and I can thumb through it ?

To get a 500 or 600cc bike in group 5 or 6 it would have to be factory restricted.

Example:
Bandit GSF600 = Group 9
Bandit GSF600 (25-KW) = Group 5

Wossack · 13-04-2012 12:18pm

best bet really is to plug stuff yourself into an online calc - believe Liberty have one, maybe others

believe all the companies use their own individual grading system, that we dont get to see. CN had more grades then Quinn, for example (4-5 years ago). And as such, what one company believe to be a missile, others consider a wheelbarrow. Bit of a mess unfort...

Back in the day
NSR125r with Aon? No chance - group 9 (irrc)
NSR with quinn? Sure, group 2. Lower insruance group then its lawnmower powered replacement - cbr125r (group 3)

Caddyman · 16-04-2012 2:35pm

I returned to biking a couple of years ago after 17 years off bikes and had to go through training, theory test then more pre-test training and then got my test first time last March. I think the IBT is a good idea as the level of riding skill can only increase and therefore the number of accidents should lessen and then of course insurance premiums should fall! So we will all benefit in the long run.

BTW I bought a dvd from the states a couple of years ago and still have a look at it every so often as its the only specific learning course for larger bikes but it really applies to all bikes and a lot of it is put up by the man himself (Jerry Paladino) on youtube, here's a sample; http://youtu.be/sf7XiXiPx1s

Best of luck to all doing the training and preparing for exams, it'll be well worth the effort to get that A/A1 on your licence!

16-04-2012 11:01pm

Hi all

I received my theory test certificate today for a motorbike. I have a full driving licence already and have had since 2004. I'm wondering if I need to still get an eye test and a medical report for this learners permit even though I already have a full licence ? It just seems stupid if I have to so wanted to ask in here first.

Cheers lads

Wossack · 16-04-2012 11:05pm

I dont believe so, no

used to be that you'd go to your local motor tax office, and present both your full, and the certificate of competency. They've take them both off you, give you a slip that you can drive on, and they'd combine them and post it out to you after a few days.

if i remember correctly..!

username?! · 22-04-2012 6:09pm

Quick licence question,

I did my theory test when I was 16 for a moped back in May 2006 it was a car and bike one back then I think. Also have done my full B licence.

Found my old provisional and it says I have a A1 provisional. I couldn't get a A Provisional as I was only 16 when I was issued the licence.

Looking to get back into bikes and want something over 125cc so will need a A licence.

Found this on the first page
"A Theory Test cert issued prior to 21st October 2006 in respect of the category B (car) entitles applicants to apply for first Learner permit in respect of the categories A, A1, M and W also, provided that the theory cert was presented to the Motor Tax Office within two years of the date of issue and you have kept your car licence in date."

Does this mean I won't have to sit another theory test for my A provisional as I did it back when A and B where the same test?

username?! · 23-04-2012 1:01pm

username?! wrote: »

Quick licence question,

I did my theory test when I was 16 for a moped back in May 2006 it was a car and bike one back then I think. Also have done my full B licence.

Found my old provisional and it says I have a A1 provisional. I couldn't get a A Provisional as I was only 16 when I was issued the licence.

Looking to get back into bikes and want something over 125cc so will need a A licence.

Found this on the first page
"A Theory Test cert issued prior to 21st October 2006 in respect of the category B (car) entitles applicants to apply for first Learner permit in respect of the categories A, A1, M and W also, provided that the theory cert was presented to the Motor Tax Office within two years of the date of issue and you have kept your car licence in date."

Does this mean I won't have to sit another theory test for my A provisional as I did it back when A and B where the same test?

Anyone?

Wossack · 23-04-2012 2:42pm

It certainly sounds that way. Difficult one to get across, but sounds like you tick all the boxes for the italic's part you posted

username?! · 23-04-2012 10:43pm

rang the tax office, said I won't have to sit another tests but i'l "probably" fall under the new bike laws and will need to conduct a IBT.

minidazzler · 14-05-2012 2:24am

I'm looking at getting a Scooter just for general commuting around Cork City on the cheap.

I presume I would need to do the IBT? I figure I may as well ask in case I can get away with not.

Thanks.

Richard tea · 14-05-2012 3:12am

Hello all,
Has anybody used this place for the IBT? http://www.motorcycleskills.ie/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=79&Itemid=90 How did you find them?

Also can you recommend any other IBT trainers covering the midlands?

Please Kill Me · 14-05-2012 8:17pm

Richard tea wrote: »

Hello all,
Has anybody used this place for the IBT? http://www.motorcycleskills.ie/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=79&Itemid=90 How did you find them?

Also can you recommend any other IBT trainers covering the midlands?

Smiler is your man! PM on the way. God forbid someone thinks I'm advertising or drumming up business for someone.

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Learner/Newbie Sticky All Learner/newbie/Starter Questions Go here!!**