2 Drive Safe - Basic Handling Skills Test Info

Motorbike Basic Handling Skills Test Info

The test is comprised of six maneuvers, all of which are described below and shown in the video to the right. We also look at posture and general control. You need to demonstrate safe and effective control of the motorcycle at all times throughout the test period, while negotiating a test item or otherwise. Stalling, not looking up, wrists high, loss of control or racing the engine all have penalty points!

The Six Maneuvers

The test may be terminated at any time if the examiner sees you are unsafe or have scored too many mistakes already to not pass the test. The examiner will give you some constructive feedback and let you know what you need to practice to be able to pass next time. We can offer you training at another time and of course you can rebook to take the test again.

If we have time and you just had a 'blip' we may be able to retest you there and then but remember this is about your safety and the max speed on the course is only 20kph. If you are unsafe at this speed then think about how much more dangerous it would be at higher speeds!

Tips for the test

Look well ahead –not down just down in front of you. You steer with your eyes, so where you look is really important; especially on corners! Look through the corner to the exit point - the place you want to end up at.

Take your time – don’t rush!

Practice keeping both feet on the foot pegs until you have stopped; then put your left foot down as this is usually the safest side to do so, protecting you from passing traffic.

Use both front and rear brakes to slow and stop.

The Test Bike

We use a brand new Suzuki GN125H supplied to us by Avon City Suzuki. It is a geared bike (1 down 4 up) with standard layout of controls.
More information on the bike can be found on Suziki's Website.

If you want to use your own bike you can do so, however it must meet certain requirements;

(Extract from NZTA Approved Course Providers handbook)
" The basic motorcycle handling skills test may only be undertaken on a motorcycle that has an engine capacity of 250cc or less. Basic motorcycle handling skills testing may not be conducted on any:
• motorcycle with an engine capacity greater than 250cc
• moped
• all-terrain vehicle
• motorcycles such as pit bikes, mini bikes, paddock bikes, junior-sized motorcycles.

Any candidate applying to undertake the test and wanting to provide and use their own motorcycle of this type are to be advised that they may not be used for the test without the prior approval from the NZTA. In order to maintain the integrity of the test, candidates should be advised that it is highly unlikely such approval will be granted unless there are meritorious circumstances particular to that candidate. Candidates can apply in writing to:
Driving Standards Manager
NZ Transport Agency
PO Box 5084
Wellington 6145.

Motorcycles with automatic transmission may only be used for the test in situations where a candidate provides their own motorcycle.Automatic transmission includes any motorcycle which does not have a manually operated clutch, regardless of whether or not the gears can be manually selected and changed."

Terms, Conditions and Disclaimer

Familiarisation time is to get used to the bike, track and manoeuvres that will be tested.
Safety is paramount, so the intructor holds the right to not start the test, or to stop the test at any time.
Although all due care is taken during tuition and test, no responsibility or liability will be taken if injury to a participant, or damage to property occurs during instruction, test or after instruction or test has taken place.

Go Back To The Top