The report suggests a new hazard avoidance maneuver which – subject to further trialling - could be carried out on the road. There is also a proposal which will be given further consideration, that slow maneuvers such as slalom, figure of eight, and U turn could be examined at training centres by delegated examiners ahead of the main test.
The next step will be to hold wider trials, with test-level candidates, in the new year. This process will be followed by public consultation on the proposed changes.
“I want to make sure that we have a test which prepares bikers properly for the road so the motorcycle test review is a top priority for me,” stated Road Safety Minister Mike Penning. "My goal has always been a single, on-road test which is rigorous and reflects real-life conditions. By working with the motorcycle training industry and others we have identified a set of changes which have the potential to deliver this.
"It is also my aim that these changes will open up the test to those living in areas which are poorly served by the current network of-off road test centres,” continued Penning. "I am grateful to all those who have given their time and expertise to the review and the focus will now be on starting trials of these proposals."
The Department for Transport hopes there would be a phased introduction of on-road testing moving to general adoption of the new test by the end of 2011 or early 2012.
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