Learner Riders Ability During Training
Demonstrating ability is a crucial part of any learner rider’s journey towards obtaining a licence. As a learner rider, you will be assessed on your ability to safely and competently handle a motorcycle in various situations.
Your ability will be judged based on your performance during riding lessons and your practical riding test. In this article, we will explore how learner rider can demonstrate their ability level to their instructor/examiner and how they are judged on their performance.
A positive attitude to learning
First and foremost, a learner rider should show up for their lessons prepared and ready to learn. This means having all the necessary clothing, including a helmet, gloves, and appropriate riding gear. It also means having a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. An instructor is more likely to give a good assessment to a learner rider who is attentive, shows interest in what they are learning, and is open to constructive feedback.
Your ability will constantly be assessed by the instructor throughout the day to ensure you understand and can execute the fundamental skills required for safe riding. These skills may include everything from basic control of the motorcycle to more advanced techniques such as counter steering and cornering. Emergency manoeuvres may also be covered so that you can demonstrate your ability to do emergency stops and avoidance exercises.
Handling skills
The first thing an instructor will look for in a new learner rider is their ability to handle the motorcycle itself. This includes things like starting and stopping smoothly, by using good throttle and clutch control.
How and when you change gear and what process you use, controlling the throttle is important in the early stages of learning to change gear correctly. But as your ability improves, correct gear selection for every situation is imperative.
Be precise
Your ability will be assessed to use the brakes in a controlled and precise manner. A learner rider who is able to demonstrate these skills with confidence and consistency will generally be seen as having a good foundation for future learning and development.
It is important to note that instructors do not judge you during training on a scale of “good” or “bad.” Rather, the evaluation of the rider’s strengths and weaknesses is observed to give targeted feedback and guidance for further improvement.
For example, a rider who is struggling with slow control will benefit from individual coaching and tuition in order to develop their ability.
Know the rules of the road
Additionally, as a learner rider, you should always follow the rules of the road and ride in a safe and responsible manner. This means obeying traffic signals, staying within the speed limit but also staying within your own ability levels.
You must always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards on the road. To do this you must have good forward observations and vision.
During the road ride, your ability to ride a motorcycle safely and competently in real-life conditions is assessed. You will be evaluated on performance in a range of scenarios, including starting and stopping, turning, manoeuvring and riding on different types of roads.
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Safely and confident
Learner riders should focus on demonstrating their ability to ride safely and confidently. Try to maintain a smooth and steady riding style, making sure to indicate clearly and in good time so as not to confuse other road users.
Mirror checks, observations and lifesavers must be shown at appropriate times to ensure you have grasped the concept of looking correctly. Your ability to demonstrate this throughout the road ride is important.
Always follow the rules of the road and adjust your riding style according to the traffic conditions and weather.
A critical part of learning
Demonstrating ability is a critical part of learning to ride. By turning up prepared with some home study and using a development plan you will be starting your training day on the right footing. Where possible practise key skills in between training sessions and always ride in a safe and responsible manner.
Your ability and performance is assessed during the practical riding, the instructor will be looking for confidence and safety. But do not be over confident and make silly mistakes by rushing. A good technique and ability to ride safely is more important to the speed you ride.
By focusing on building strong foundational skills and continually improving your riding ability, you can become a confident and competent new motorcycle rider.
Preparation is key
One important aspect that could help you demonstrate your ability level is by being prepared and familiar with the course programme. By using your Training Reports and Development Plans between training sessions you demonstrate an ability to learn.
If possible practise between sessions to become comfortable with the manoeuvres that require attention. This could be as simple as practising pulling away and stopping (without stalling), slow-speed control, emergency stops and cornering. Additionally, you should have a good understanding of traffic rules, road signs and markings.
Always ask for clarification
If you have experienced anything that you do not understand, you should always ask for clarification. Not knowing what to do and finding yourself in a dangerous situation may demonstrate a lack of ability. But if it was because you didn’t ask questions, and you are unsure, you are to blame.
Communication is two way and although you are learning, your ability to ask questions when unsure is vital to a thorough training programme.