The new motorcycle test - meet the trainers and examiners

The new motorcycle test - which is being introduced next year by the Driving Standards Agency - will be promoted at a unique event organised by the Motorcycle Rider Training Association at Stoke-on-Trent on 1 July.

The Motorcycle Rider Training Association will be supported by Driving Standards Agency motorcycle experts, National BikeSafe, Road Safety Organisations and European stunt riding champion Craig Jones to help demonstrate the new test, which is being introduced in October 2008 as a road safety initiative.

The event - at Britannia Stadium, Stanley Matthews Way - will bring together the public, the training and the testing industry. It will be a unique opportunity for people to ask the experts questions about the new test and the new register being set up to provide riders with approved training after they have passed their test. Craig will perform a show as well as help demonstrate the new test.

Graham Shaw, Assistant Chief Driving Examiner for DSA said: "The new motorcycle test will help to improve motorbike riding skills and producer better, safer riders. This is one of a number of initiatives being introduced to help in reducing the number of casualties amongst motorcyclists."

The test will involve an 'off road element' conducted in a safe environment at purpose built Test Centres. The rider will have to successfully complete a number of exercises designed to test competence in machine control and observation, including an exercise designed to test the rider's ability to avoid a collision. Once the rider has passed this element they will then be taken out on road to complete the remainder of the test.

The experts will also be joined by Devitt Insurance Services Ltd., specialists in motorcycle and motorcycle training insurances. Instructors at the event will be able to test bikes for their suitability in the industry.

"The event in July will be a perfect opportunity for trainers and the public alike to understand and adapt to the new test," said Graham.