View Full Version : Bike test soon, Help!
Endellion
26-04-07, 08:09 PM
Hey all,
I have my DAS this weekend, I was wondering if anyone had some tips for the test (which is on monday), apart from the obvious like relax, I am having trouble remembering to cancel my indicators! Very frustrating, any easy way that I can remeber, you'd never guess but I'm a driving instructor HA HA!
Already ordered my K6 SV650 Sport and Blue Flame exhaust, nothing Like jumping the gun HUH?!
Hey all,
I have my DAS this weekend, I was wondering if anyone had some tips for the test (which is on monday), apart from the obvious like relax, I am having trouble remembering to cancel my indicators! Very frustrating, any easy way that I can remeber, you'd never guess but I'm a driving instructor HA HA!
Already ordered my K6 SV650 Sport and Blue Flame exhaust, nothing Like jumping the gun HUH?!
I did that a few times, just talk to yourself it helps.....no one can hear you so talk talk talk:thumbsup:
Good luck with it
get the U-turn sorted.
it took me 3 attempts to pass after i failed twice on the U-turn.
first time i tried to set off in second. stalled went down.
second time iwas 90% done though i had done it lost concentration and touched the front brake(doh) forkes compressed and down i went.
for me it was 3rd time lucky.
good luck.
That really is all you need to do - relax.
For some reason when I did mine I was really chilled out. I did the U turn in the first 5 mins and nailed it - after that I just enjoyed it.
Good luck :-D
jamessunhill
26-04-07, 09:55 PM
It looks like you're doing exactly the same as me.
I'm on a DAS course this weekend with my test on Monday.
Funnily enough, my main problem is cancelling the indicators too.
I'm not a driving instructor though.:p
ASM-Forever
26-04-07, 09:58 PM
Just get into the habbit of cancelling the indicators after turns. If you are in any doubt just have another click. As i am usually accelerting after i turn i cancel the indicator after i have clutched in and shifted gear.
I think people put far too much emphasis on the u-turn....if your technique is right its easy. After all the road has to be a set width and you have loads of time to turn when you are far from full lock. Best advice i am sure you have already been given is to pick your target destination on the lifesaver. That and keep the revs up... i see so many people u-turning at low revs. If you are losing it just release the clutch and momentum will right the bike.
Its a cliche to say "relax and enjoy it", as lets face it, you are being examined so will be wired.
Good luck anyway....as long as you have a decent training school you are set.
Endellion
26-04-07, 10:03 PM
Thanks for all replies guys, good advice I especially like the talking to ones self, didn't think of that as If I told my pupils to do it the examiner in a car would think the pupil a bit odd probably!
U-turn was tricky on CBT but as you say ASM- Forever pick the target and it worked out better.
Hope my bike doesn't sit unused!
Jamessunhill....Good Luck!!!
jamessunhill
26-04-07, 10:04 PM
Cheers Ian.
The same goes to you.:thumbsup:
carful on the rear brake on the emegancy stop, dont lock the back wheel up as its a fail .............. i did not use the back brake, just covered it
carful on the rear brake on the emegancy stop, dont lock the back wheel up as its a fail .............. i did not use the back brake, just covered it
Not quite there "young" hovis. If you lock & it remains locked, yes, fault (IIRC it could be a major too!). If you lock, release & re-apply, all fine & dandy.
As for the indicators? Press the button constantly, no matter what you're doing, hit the button. You know the indicators are going to be off that way, and you only have to do it for the 35mins you're on test ;)
You're a driving instructor anyhow, so this may be a bit pointless. You already know the theory side of it (specific bike theory as well), so no need to worry about that.
On my test, I went round the course OK. I did the usual, set off from the test centre, get around the first bend & thought I'd fudged it, so I didn't care. Coming back to the test centre, I had to turn left, then swing right into the tiny carpark (the test centre used to be a bungalow, and the garden is now the carpark). I did the left no problems, indication & observation as I should. Swinging right into the car park? Well, no checking mirrors, no lifesaver, and no indicators!!!! :oops:
I was lucky, the examiner (and my instructor) gave me complete hell for it, but the examiner put it down as a minor due to nerves. \\:D/
Remember the words you say to your students, which no doubt will be along the lines of "Remember everything I've taught you, and relax. Do that, and you'll pass no worries." (Least, that's what both my car & bike instructors have said - is it something you get taught when you're learning to be one? :D).
skidmarx
27-04-07, 08:14 AM
Get into the habit of cancelling everytime you check your rear view after a turn, whether you've indicated or not!
Alpinestarhero
27-04-07, 08:16 AM
Hey all,
I have my DAS this weekend, I was wondering if anyone had some tips for the test (which is on monday), apart from the obvious like relax, I am having trouble remembering to cancel my indicators! Very frustrating, any easy way that I can remeber, you'd never guess but I'm a driving instructor HA HA!
Already ordered my K6 SV650 Sport and Blue Flame exhaust, nothing Like jumping the gun HUH?!
Talk to yourself! Every corner say the same thing, so its a rythm - then it'll feel odd when you dont say something and hence dont do something. On my test, my running commentray was something like:
"check mirrors, indicate, apply brakes. check mirrors again, lifesaver, turn intot the corner DONT CUT YOU PILLOCK cancel indies and check mirrors, accelerate up to the speed limit if its safe to do so"
Problem you have is spending years in a car and having self-canceling indies!
Good luck, and dont put your foot down - always look at where you want to go and not the kurb which will fail your test
Matt
KnightRider
27-04-07, 09:22 AM
Good luck buddy. Got my test on the 8th of May and my CBT tomorrow. Sure you will do fine if you stay chilled. Ever thought about driving the routes before you do your test?
If you go to the DSA website and look for your test centre you should see the list of routes that they use posted on the right hand side. I plan to drive them all in my car so that I get familiarised with the roads and am aware of any hazards or hidden side roads prior to the test. Of course they may not stick to the route, but you may get lucky. Driving the routes should also focus your mind on what you need to do, especially if you talk yourself through the route as you drive round them.
Good luck! Remember to breath. Sounds stupid but I concentrated so hard I kept holding my breath.
Also, when doing your u-turn or going around a bend or corner, look where you want to go, rather then where you are heading. By doing this you are altering your weight and the bike follows.
Don't be afraid to rev the f*** out of the bike, its made to do it and its useful for the u-turn.
Move your head when checking your mirrors, lets the examiner see you are regularly checking your mirrors.
Good luck, it'll be fine! :)
plowsie
27-04-07, 10:02 AM
The U turn can be sooooo easy as long as you use your eyes don't look at the kerb you are heading towards, look into the distance and keep it slow but flowing, if you need to use the brake don't whatever you do use the front brake i nearly did and almost failed on it :lol: As for your indicators use each junction as a song was the best way for me ;) mirror, signal, shoulder check, road position, round corner, check mirrors, cancel signal. It may it may not work for ya. The emergency stop nice n easy, just watch what you are doing if its a bit slippy, its a fail if you lock, so only use a little rear brake more front and feed not all in 1 go. Remember if you feel comfortable doing something one way do it that way as long as it is correct.
(Gosh i feel like a driving instructor) I'm telling you all this and i failed my first test on something so stupid it was unbelievable. Meeting oncoming traffic between 2 cars :D Tbh it werent fair in my eyes :( O well thats all in the past now.
Good Luck buddy
Stu
ArtyLady
27-04-07, 10:08 AM
As for the indicators? Press the button constantly, no matter what you're doing, hit the button. You know the indicators are going to be off that way, and you only have to do it for the 35mins you're on test ;)
I still do this, out of habit I automatically click the indi button often, just to be sure. :)
Good luck mate:smt023
The emergency stop nice n easy, just watch what you are doing if its a bit slippy, its a fail if you lock, so only use a little rear brake more front and feed not all in 1 go.
Again, common misconception. If you lock the rear in an e-stop, so long as you release & re-apply, there's nothing wrong.
The emergency stop is a "controlled stop in as short a distance as is possible to achieve safely." To me, that means using both brakes. If the rear (or front for that matter) lock up on gravel for example, you release the brake & re-apply. No problem.
The above is taken word for word pretty much from my examiner 8-9months ago. I asked him because I was told that he's a c-nut & it's difficult to pass with him, he likes to fail people. TBH, I can see that POV. If you're more tight on the rules, it gives a higher standard of driver (to start with at least).
plowsie
27-04-07, 10:16 AM
Again, common misconception. If you lock the rear in an e-stop, so long as you release & re-apply, there's nothing wrong.
The emergency stop is a "controlled stop in as short a distance as is possible to achieve safely." To me, that means using both brakes. If the rear (or front for that matter) lock up on gravel for example, you release the brake & re-apply. No problem.
The above is taken word for word pretty much from my examiner 8-9months ago. I asked him because I was told that he's a c-nut & it's difficult to pass with him, he likes to fail people. TBH, I can see that POV. If you're more tight on the rules, it gives a higher standard of driver (to start with at least).
I was told by instructor and examiner it was straight fail :O Robbin Ba$tards lol
Luckypants
27-04-07, 10:21 AM
Again, common misconception. If you lock the rear in an e-stop, so long as you release & re-apply, there's nothing wrong.
So how come I failed for doing exactly that on my first bike test? That was the thing the examiner told me I failed on. Locked the rear very briefly, only slid a foot or so - but I knew I'd done it and so did examiner.
I took my test 10 years ago, so things might have changed, but that is what happened to me. Was at York test centre, not that it should make any difference.
charris
27-04-07, 10:22 AM
Good luck to the both of you!
I was told by instructor and examiner it was straight fail :O Robbin Ba$tards lol
I locked the rear a couple of times in practice on my DAS. First time I heard over the radio "Congratulations, you've just failed your test, now go round the block & do it again." (I didn't even feel it lock or anything, road was damp).
Second time I locked, but then released & re-applied "OK, better, but that's still worthy of a minor, and could tip the scales. Go again, we'll be here until you nail this properly & stop wasting my rubber." (again, damp road, but this time I know I went over a manhole cover :( )
Third time lucky. I still had to do it a few more times though to make sure it wasn't a fluke. Funnily enough, I did the emergency stop on exactly the same road in pretty much exactly the same place on my test! Nailed it perfectly!
EDIT: Mike, 10 years ago, it probably has changed.
I was told that as a car driver I'd probably struggle with the indicators not self-cancelling, but it's just a habit that you have pick up, like so many others that you need to acquire in order to pass the test (like the incessant mirror checks at almost every possible occasion).
The U-turn had me most worried too, I'd had a couple of dodgy practices, foot down, almost dropped, almost hit far curb and snatched front brake (amongst a majority of successful ones I might add), and that was enough to give me the jitters. My instructor gave me some real confidence though and I just totally nailed the whole thing, I'm not sure I've ever ridden so well since then either, actually :)
The best feeling was knowing that I could ride the ER5 back from the test centre to the instructor place unaccompanied. I didn't know the way though!! :) Took me a couple of miles to realise it, though. Had to ask for directions :)
Good luck on the test!
ASM-Forever
27-04-07, 11:18 AM
I never really had a problem locking the rear on an emergency stop, i just give it a touch of rear and progressively squeezed the front.
As for riding back to the training school HQ, there were two of us and i managed to feign starter problems :) , so i was behind the instructor and could misbehave a little. The other bloke was in front and went to dive into the inside lane at the lights for one of the larger roundabouts. No lifesaver or presumably mirror check and nearly implanted himself into a WVM. It was probably the biggest brown trouser moment ive had on a bike and it wasnt even me in the firing line.
beniryu
27-04-07, 12:10 PM
Just try to remain as relaxed as possible (though I know thats easier said than done). Don't get hung up trying to concentrate on one particular thing like indicators because then you may start making mistakes in other areas you don't normally have a problem with. I got into the habit of pressing the indicator button a couple of times after turning to make sure that I had remembered to cancel them :)
When you do the U-turn look to where you want the bike to go because that really does make a difference to how you balance and manouver the bike.
Overall just try and treat the test like another lesson and above all enjoy it as best you can.
Good luck with your test :)
Failed my first test locking the back brake on my RXS - That said I couldn't have stopped that bike any quicker..... Helped when I stopped thinking of an emergency stop as a genuine emergency and just stopped quickly....
John 675
27-04-07, 02:07 PM
Warning no sugar coating lol, . . .
It took me 4 times to pass, all i can say that it was the worse part of last year, not going to fill your head with relax, and other things because you will be nervous you will cak it and it will feel like crap . . . . untill you pass :D
what i advise having full experience of this dasterdly DAS as i took it 4 times lol,
all you have to do is jump through the hoops you are not so much learning to ride a bike, that comes when you pass, you are learning to pass the test.
anyone can if they jump through the hoops,
1. i failed once on my u turn, - went up a dropped curb ever so slightly,
2. my front wheel was in a cycle box - doh!
3. Too many minors- thought id failed when i skidded my emergancy stop ( i hadent i later found ) so basicaly just treated the rest of the test like a fun time then i failed because of that . . . yeah . .
4. i passed no minors i jumped through the hoops and passed, then Got on my SV that day and the battery was flat. . . . :mad:
Irony lol,
just do the test and concentrate,
just be carefull when you pass because your learning for real then.
LyleJ
2. my front wheel was in a cycle box - doh!
That's a test fail? Blimey, I put all of my bike in the cycle box all the time. Hell, I'm riding a cycle, only it's a motorcycle!
thumper21
27-04-07, 06:19 PM
That's a test fail? Blimey, I put all of my bike in the cycle box all the time. Hell, I'm riding a cycle, only it's a motorcycle!
It should only be test fail if it a red cycle box but if its green its only a curtious thing for cyclists.
I think i hold the record here for attempts! Finaly passed on my 7th attempts, kept fluffing U turns!
Good luck on your test :)
Endellion
27-04-07, 08:31 PM
Lots of good help, I am familiar with the areea Im doing test in which helps as I use it with my pupils in the car, was on the 125 today had real problems with the u turn kept putting foot down:(
Got 2 days on gs500 then test
Thanks for words of encouragement!
You guys sound like me when I speak to my test candidates, how ironic!!!!
ASM-Forever
27-04-07, 09:08 PM
To be perfectly honest the u-turn is COMPLETELY different on a larger bike, such as a 500 you will probably use. You might even find it easier as the bike is usually more planted.
Look where you want to go and keep the revs up with good clutch control....easy peasy really:) If its something your struggling with just have 30 minutes off road practising and crack it.
To be perfectly honest the u-turn is COMPLETELY different on a larger bike, such as a 500 you will probably use. You might even find it easier as the bike is usually more planted.
Look where you want to go and keep the revs up with good clutch control....easy peasy really:) If its something your struggling with just have 30 minutes off road practising and crack it.
It isn't easy peasy :)
It's tricky but if you can do all the other required stuff and you have decent clutch control then practice can indeed make perfect. I did about 50 in a row on the car park at the riding school at the end of day 2. Nothing like a bit of repetition to build up confidence.
ASM-Forever
27-04-07, 09:24 PM
If your technique is right it is :)
I think its a case of mind over matter, because as soon as you get the technique and trust yourself that the bike will not fall it is rather pish.
That said i probably have u-turned less than 10 times since i took my test!
jamessunhill
27-04-07, 09:31 PM
I found the U turns very easy on the CBT (125cc), but I have been riding bikes at home on the farm for years, so slow speed control isn't a problem.
I'm just waiting to see how I do on the big bike tomorrow.
ASM-Forever
28-04-07, 09:38 AM
Only real difference i found between the bikes was that you can get away with really low revs on a 125, but on a larger bike you need decent revs to physically pull the bike around.
That said if you can u-turn a 125 then you will be fine :). As the bike is bigger you also get a wider road.
Alpinestarhero
28-04-07, 09:41 AM
You should be fine on the schools bikes, they pick bikes with some actual appreciable movment of the bars from lock to lock.
That said, I'm glad I did my test on a 125. Ok, so I'm restricted, but it took alot of pressure off me
Matt
get good nights sleep
have a good healthy breakfast
dont think about other people having problems with uturn - stopping etc or you will end up thinking about it instead of concentrating.
Dont panic if you go the wrong way but dont change lane or something to go right way.
Hold your position on road,
sit up tall
and try not kiss examiner when he passes you
good luck
Gordon B
28-04-07, 02:56 PM
My advice would be the same about u-turns. This was the bit I was worried about most. But DON't spend all day doing u-turns to practice.
The best advice about riding the clutch, looking where you want the bike to go and not using the brake is sound advice.
However, a cautionary tale.
Concentrate ALL the way including coming back into the car park after the test. I failed my first test because I alledgedly (and I will dispute it to this day) failed to see an examiner coming out from the side of the building in her car and she had to brake sharply. I would protest that as an examiner she should have known I was on my test and stayed where she was, but don't get me started....:smt071
Just relax, enjoy and then grin heavily from ear to ear when you first ride off into the sunset without having someones voice in your helmet.....
Good Luck!
phil24_7
28-04-07, 06:00 PM
Don't worry about it too much.
I was s**t when I did my CBT and they said I'd need a day on a 125 then 3 on a 500 (reputable training centre so know I wasn't getting ripped off).
First day training on a 125 I managed to get rid of my nerves but still wasn't that comfortable (had only ever riden my brother supersports bikes while he wasn't watchin!!!).
First day on a 500, alot more confident and alot more comfortable but my 2 main problems were cancelling my indicators and the dreaded u-turn.
Even the day before the test I couldn't do the u-turn 100% of the time, more like 50%, and I couldn't do a u-turn if I had to start it going up a hill. I practised all that evening on my SV650S but due to the riding possition was even worse!!!
Day of the test I had a practise run (no comentary from my instructor, just directions), I still had problems with my indicators ocassionally and then the u-turn. Nailed it once and the instructor wouldn't let me do it again (guess he didn't want me to have a negative thoughts).
Test went fine, don't remember most of it as I was worrying about the turn, then it was time. I started off fine and then half way round I got fixated on the curb but luckily I had enough lean and speed to bring me round!!!!
On the way back to the test centre I went through a flashing amber light and even though I know you can do it, for some reason my head told me I shouldn't so I thought I'd failed and started cursing very loudly in my helmet:oops:!
On the way outta the test centre after I'd passed my test, I pulled out with to much gas and shot onto the opposite side of the road into the path of an oncomming car :smt103, my nerves were shot to s**t!
I did mine in October and had the same fears re the u-turn.
Don't panic. I talked to myself the whole way round and it really does work. Like someone else said - nobody can here you so do it - it really helped me.
I locked the rear on the emergency stop by the way but let it go and applied it again and didn't fail.
Relax - that's what it's all about.
Good luck to you both.
Endellion
28-04-07, 06:41 PM
Had my first day on GS500 today, still having problems with the u-turn but just like Phil 24_7 nailing it 50 % of the time I would say, when I don't think too hard! Getting confidence up aswell, it was great to open up on the back roads and dual carriageway, even though I think its only about 48 brake. Very much looking forward to that moment you speak of Jamaxx when I roide off inoto the sunset on my new Blue pointy!
Jamaxx, being an instructor (driving obviously) I would agree with comment about examiner (although wasn't there don't know the exact details) . But I see examiners and instructors drive and they aren't angels!!!! Sounds like favouritism but hey thats all in the past huh.
One more day on test routes and stuff then test monday.....watch this space
Endellion
28-04-07, 06:47 PM
Oh,
Quick question
At a roundabout when going ahead the line I've been told to take is to keep left then sig as pass exit before yours etc.
When on a mini roundabout or one with a single lane, surely it is better to keep central so as to dominate the lane and not encourage some idiot to try and squeeze you off to the left more?
When asked my instructor said that it may encourage this but its the correct way to position, don't think hes lying just wanted some feedback from elsewhere, what do you think?
keep to left hand lane if 2 lanes but it only one lane hold central right hand side position. always when riding position yourself as if you were the driver of a car. if you stick to left hand side of lane there is more chance of someone trying to squish up the outside.
jamessunhill
28-04-07, 08:55 PM
I had my first run on the GS500 today too (I spent most of the morning on a 125, then went onto the GS500).
I seem to have got over my problem of not cancelling indicators (just got on the bike and did it properly all day).
I'm looking forward to tomorrow. Out all day on the GS500:riding:
What time's your test on Monday Ian?
Good Luck :thumbsup:
The 500s are a total revelation after the 125s aren't they? (At least they were to me, who had never even been pillion on a motorbike before).
125s must just seem like such a chore after that.
Endellion
28-04-07, 09:52 PM
I had my first run on the GS500 today too (I spent most of the morning on a 125, then went onto the GS500).
I seem to have got over my problem of not cancelling indicators (just got on the bike and did it properly all day).
I'm looking forward to tomorrow. Out all day on the GS500:riding:
What time's your test on Monday Ian?
Good Luck :thumbsup:
Yeah indicators worked out a bit better for me today too!
Test is at 1.33, you???
Endellion
28-04-07, 09:54 PM
keep to left hand lane if 2 lanes but it only one lane hold central right hand side position. always when riding position yourself as if you were the driver of a car. if you stick to left hand side of lane there is more chance of someone trying to squish up the outside.
thats what I thought!?
guess i better just do it the way the instructor tells me though...for now anyway
thats what I thought!?
guess i better just do it the way the instructor tells me though...for now anyway
just get him to confirm and explain why, but yeah if he confirms thats the way to do it, go with it. oh yeah good luck
Oh,
Quick question
At a roundabout when going ahead the line I've been told to take is to keep left then sig as pass exit before yours etc.
When on a mini roundabout or one with a single lane, surely it is better to keep central so as to dominate the lane and not encourage some idiot to try and squeeze you off to the left more?
When asked my instructor said that it may encourage this but its the correct way to position, don't think hes lying just wanted some feedback from elsewhere, what do you think?
For the government test, this is definitely the correct way to position.
However after you've passed you can forget all about that, and apex the roundabout - ie take as straight a line as you can. As you're crossing lanes you need careful rear observation to check there's nothing behind you, and you also need to make clear to other road users that you're not turning right. It's terrific fun when done properly but NOT recommended for your test, OK?
jamessunhill
29-04-07, 03:30 PM
Test is at 1.33, you???
Mines 12.43 (or something like that). I'm going to be at the training centre from 9 anyway (I'll be riding for about 1 hour before the test anyway), so I'll get them to confirm it for me then.
I had a great day today. All day on the GS500. When we'd finished, my instructor said that at the start of the day I was riding like a learner and stuck out from everyone else like a sore thumb, but as time went on, I got better and better and by the end of the day, I was riding like everyone else and had I taken the L plates off, no-one else would have been able to tell I hadn't passed yet.
How did your day go Ian? (This seems to have turned into a joint post between the 2 of us);)
Fingers Crossed for tomorrow (for both of us).
Good Luck:thumright:
ArtyLady
29-04-07, 03:53 PM
Im keeping everything crossed for both of you :thumright: :D
StreetHawk
29-04-07, 04:05 PM
Good luck both of you.. :-)
I passed last weds and it's a great feeling.. Just try to relax and talk yourself through it. Thats the advice I was given and it worked for me. Just remember you don't need to do a perfect ride to pass.
Nick
Endellion
29-04-07, 04:11 PM
Mines 12.43 (or something like that). I'm going to be at the training centre from 9 anyway (I'll be riding for about 1 hour before the test anyway), so I'll get them to confirm it for me then.
I had a great day today. All day on the GS500. When we'd finished, my instructor said that at the start of the day I was riding like a learner and stuck out from everyone else like a sore thumb, but as time went on, I got better and better and by the end of the day, I was riding like everyone else and had I taken the L plates off, no-one else would have been able to tell I hadn't passed yet.
How did your day go Ian? (This seems to have turned into a joint post between the 2 of us);)
Fingers Crossed for tomorrow (for both of us).
Good Luck:thumright:
Took your L -plates off? Sounds like you've passed already lol!
Its Officailly our post
I too had a great day, all round the test area, did a couple of routes, getting quite confident on the bike and leaning further and further over in the corners as a result. Getting on the windy B-roads was the best bit.
I've wanted to do this for years and am so glad I've stopped listening to friends family tell me 'It's so dangerous', 'You'll hurt yourself'.... Err crossing the road is dangerous but what you gonna do? I think with the bike its as risky as you want to make it? Look well ahead and spot the potential problems befre they happen, I'm such a driving instructor ha ha!
Also went to a bike shop (Instructor knew the staff, hes such a skiver) and they had a SV650 sport, half faired, can't wait till I get my hands on my new faired sport next weekend, getting all excited feel like I did when doing my driving test.
Hope all goes well tommorrow for both of us and that we relax and actually enjoy the ride
ASM-Forever
29-04-07, 05:59 PM
I think with the bike its as risky as you want to make it? Look well ahead and spot the potential problems befre they happen,
Whilst how you ride and observation plays a big part, sometimes you will get knocked off/rear ended and there is nothing you can do about it. I would say most people who have been riding for a while would admit to having an off/s. Of course on the flip side even the best/most experienced rider can have a lapse of concentration/judgement, which results in kissing asphalt.
When people ask me about biking, i am happy to tell them all the many positives, but there is also the risk as well, no matter how well you ride.
Good luck with the test:thumright:
I think with the bike its as risky as you want to make it
Whilst how you ride and observation plays a big part, sometimes you will get knocked off/rear ended and there is nothing you can do about it. I would say most people who have been riding for a while would admit to having an off/s. Of course on the flip side even the best/most experienced rider can have a lapse of concentration/judgement, which results in kissing asphalt.
When people ask me about biking, i am happy to tell them all the many positives, but there is also the risk as well, no matter how well you ride.
ASM's right :(
good luck with your tests :thumright:
Endellion
29-04-07, 06:51 PM
Yeha I agree and experience is what I need, in both days out on the gs500 there has been plenty of bad driving by other road users, the instructor nearly t-boned 2 kids on a bike when they rode across the road from a field/track without looking. All I think is that if you dwell on the risks too much then its not something that you would enjoy or carry on doing. I am under no illusions about how safe if is if you get hit but you can reduce risks.
ASM-Forever
29-04-07, 07:02 PM
As long as you are going into it with your eyes wide open, thats fine with me :)
Anyhow listen to me all doom and gloom...im just grumpy because i cant ride at the moment!
mr slipster
29-04-07, 07:22 PM
I am doing my bike test soon on my 125. :o Only 17.
Hopefully i will pass first time, then can go and buy an sv. The 2 year probation is going to **** me off though.
Good look both off you, personally U-turns are easy, the only problem i have is going too close to car in front at traffic lights. :(
I am doing my bike test soon on my 125. :o Only 17.
Hopefully i will pass first time, then can go and buy an sv. The 2 year probation is going to **** me off though.
Good look both off you, personally U-turns are easy, the only problem i have is going too close to car in front at traffic lights. :(
The bigger size and longer wheelbase of the 500 can make the road seem much narrower than it does on the 125s, you have what feels like quite a bit less lock and are atop something that is much less easy to counter-balance at such slow speeds.
Might as well ask this here since I'm curious: Why are probation period riders so keen on (restricted) SVs? I'm sure they're quite grunty still, but they're heavier than smaller bikes too. I'd be looking for something like a 250Hornet I think. Something small, light and nimble that comes in around the right power, rather than something I'd have to choke to death. Must be cheaper to insure and run too.
mr slipster
29-04-07, 07:50 PM
The bigger size and longer wheelbase of the 500 can make the road seem much narrower than it does on the 125s, you have what feels like quite a bit less lock and are atop something that is much less easy to counter-balance at such slow speeds.
Might as well ask this here since I'm curious: Why are probation period riders so keen on (restricted) SVs? I'm sure they're quite grunty still, but they're heavier than smaller bikes too. I'd be looking for something like a 250Hornet I think. Something small, light and nimble that comes in around the right power, rather than something I'd have to choke to death. Must be cheaper to insure and run too.
I know what you mean, I am going Italy in June for a year so will de-restrict it when i do go. Insurance is only £50 more then that of a a GS500, so might as well get an sv for Italy. :)
MeridiaNx
29-04-07, 07:51 PM
Might as well ask this here since I'm curious: Why are probation period riders so keen on (restricted) SVs? I'm sure they're quite grunty still, but they're heavier than smaller bikes too. I'd be looking for something like a 250Hornet I think. Something small, light and nimble that comes in around the right power, rather than something I'd have to choke to death. Must be cheaper to insure and run too.
I had my SV restricted for the last year of my probation and I wouldn't say you have to 'choke it to death' at all. The powerband gets knocked off much more at the top from what I remember. In fact, I was shocked at how much performance I still got out of it, just required shifting up a bit earlier but still had plenty of grunt for swift overtakes.
I think the reason why it is so popular is that you can rely on having one bike for a longer period. Rather than getting a bike for 2 years and then swapping, you have 1 bike that can last the duration, and for as long after probation ends as you like. I think it also scores popularity points partly because it *is* heavier than a 250 i.e. first proper bike syndrome. That was a major plus for me when I got it.....being allowed to join the nodding squad properly rather than being ignored for being on a littler bike :rolleyes:
Endellion
29-04-07, 08:27 PM
I agree its not that much smaller physically than a litre bike (looks a bit narrower) so you feel like you are on a big bike. Plus it looks great and I love the V-twin engine note
That was a major plus for me when I got it.....being allowed to join the nodding squad properly rather than being ignored for being on a littler bike :rolleyes:
Yeah that's a good thing.......I think :)
I take your points, cheers for the reply.
the_runt69
29-04-07, 09:30 PM
Good luck for both of you for tomorrow
phil24_7
30-04-07, 03:47 AM
Good luck today the both of you. Hope the weather behaves!
KnightRider
30-04-07, 09:30 AM
Good luck guys. Let us know how you get on.
John 675
30-04-07, 10:24 AM
good luck doodes, i know how your feeling today, keep calm and go for a ride as if it was any other day . .
ASM-Forever
30-04-07, 10:33 AM
Good luck lads.....fingers crossed for good news :)
Steve H
30-04-07, 02:46 PM
..............well?............................... ...
Gordon B
30-04-07, 02:48 PM
Either drowning their sorrows in the pub, or hooning around the countryside with big grins.....
The tension's too much.......
phil24_7
30-04-07, 02:50 PM
Or hunting for insurance!
C'mon, gis an update!
John 675
30-04-07, 02:51 PM
yeah were waiting doodes. . .
jamessunhill
30-04-07, 04:53 PM
:smt040 :smt040 :smt040 :smt040 I PASSED!:smt040 :smt040 :smt040 :smt040
1 Minor!
This now means that I'm picking up my SV next weekend!:smt040
How did you do Ian?
Gordon B
30-04-07, 04:55 PM
Let me be the first of many no doubt.
Gratz.:cheers:
:smt040 :smt040 :smt040 :smt040 I PASSED!:smt040 :smt040 :smt040 :smt040
1 Minor!
This now means that I'm picking up my SV next weekend!:smt040
How did you do Ian?
CONGRATULATIONS! :thumright:
jamessunhill
30-04-07, 04:59 PM
\\:D/ \\:D/ \\:D/ \\:D/ \\:D/ :riding::riding::riding::riding::riding: \\:D/ \\:D/\\:D/ \\:D/ \\:D/
StreetHawk
30-04-07, 05:02 PM
Well done dude... Great feeling aint it! :-) I'm still smiling!! :-)
John 675
30-04-07, 05:07 PM
DOOOODEEE . . .
Well done m8 seriously today is your Day, Get your SV and get your A$$ to AE07 i'll buy you a pint ...
i know how it feels to pass and how the test are these days . . . you should be proud :smt040
charris
30-04-07, 05:15 PM
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!
jamessunhill
30-04-07, 05:15 PM
DOOOODEEE . . .
Well done m8 seriously today is your Day, Get your SV and get your A$$ to AE07 i'll buy you a pint ...
i know how it feels to pass and how the test are these days . . . you should be proud :smt040
What is this AE07? I keep seeing mentions of it on here, but what actually is it?
John 675
30-04-07, 05:19 PM
What is this AE07? I keep seeing mentions of it on here, but what actually is it?
its the Annual event 2007 m8, the SV650.org annual meet/Pi$$ up
you in?
get the info from the thread
Congratulations on the passes guys :drink:
KnightRider
30-04-07, 05:52 PM
Well done on the pass. Let us know if you have any advice for the test. Mine is on Tuesday.
Congrats James! It's THE best feeling, enjoy it, bask in the glory :)
Alpinestarhero
30-04-07, 05:55 PM
:smt040 :smt040 :smt040 :smt040 I PASSED!:smt040 :smt040 :smt040 :smt040
1 Minor!
This now means that I'm picking up my SV next weekend!:smt040
How did you do Ian?
Well done! Thats a brilliant pass, I would have got that first time round where it not for my serious :oops:
Have fun riding the SV and dont forget to keep on learning and trying to understand how to ride better and safer!
Matt
phil24_7
30-04-07, 06:15 PM
So is that a pass for both of you then or just the one??
phil24_7
30-04-07, 06:16 PM
Oops. Congrats and welcome to the biking fraternity!
jamessunhill
30-04-07, 06:17 PM
Just me so far.
Still waiting to hear how Ian's done.
phil24_7
30-04-07, 06:23 PM
Well lets just hope he's just out riding/celebrating or looking for insurance then.
Well done matey
Now you can apex roundabouts:cool: instead of going round like something out of the woodentops!
seedy100
30-04-07, 06:54 PM
Congratulations.
Enjoy!
Endellion
30-04-07, 09:40 PM
Been out all day and the news is......
I PASSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
rather spooky James 1 minor also!!
Congrtats to you and even spookier I pick up my SV on Saturday!!!!
YEAH!!!
Good thing I didn't get it today and I have time for it to sink in, spending all weekend out on it I hope
I am now a proper motorcyclist and don't feel like a pretender
Congratulations!!!! Just remember, take it easy on your new pride and joy. It ain't a race after all.
Enjoy it, it's one of the best feelings in the world :D :D :D
jamessunhill
30-04-07, 09:43 PM
Been out all day and the news is......
I PASSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
rather spooky James 1 minor also!!
Congrtats to you and even spookier I pick up my SV on Saturday!!!!
YEAH!!!
Good thing I didn't get it today and I have time for it to sink in, spending all weekend out on it I hope
I am now a proper motorcyclist and don't feel like a pretender
WELL DONE!!!!
Are you sure You and I aren't twins seperated at birth?
I think we'll have to meet up and have a comparison of birth marks!
(Waits for the usual rabble to cause utter mahem over that comment):tongue:
Endellion
30-04-07, 09:45 PM
Ha ha was just thinking the same thing!!
Maybe we are the same person?
I REALLY have to take it easy at the start I have a driving instructor lisence (sp?) to protect and already have 3 points for speeding last year (clean for 13 years since I passed test ha ha )
jamessunhill
30-04-07, 09:47 PM
Ha ha was just thinking the same thing!!
Maybe we are the same person?
I REALLY have to take it easy at the start I have a driving instructor lisence (sp?) to protect and already have 3 points for speeding last year (clean for 13 years since I passed test ha ha )
Tut Tut Tut!
Spookie time again.
I also have 3 points from speeding last year (coviction was April 06, but actual offence was in September 05). I was in Australia at the time, so mail didn't get to me!:p
Endellion
30-04-07, 09:51 PM
Ha ha what bike you getting?
jamessunhill
30-04-07, 09:53 PM
http://www.photobox.co.uk/album/5408309 1999 Curvey (in blue)
I want a pointy, but can't afford one at the moment.
I think I'll be very happy with the curvey though.:p
well done boys enjoy the road, take it easy
Luckypants
30-04-07, 09:58 PM
:smt040 :smt040 :smt040 :smt040 I PASSED!:smt040 :smt040 :smt040 :smt040
1 Minor!
This now means that I'm picking up my SV next weekend!:smt040
How did you do Ian?
Been out all day and the news is......
I PASSED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
rather spooky James 1 minor also!!
Congrtats to you and even spookier I pick up my SV on Saturday!!!!
YEAH!!!
Good thing I didn't get it today and I have time for it to sink in, spending all weekend out on it I hope
I am now a proper motorcyclist and don't feel like a pretender
Congratulations!! Nice work guys, enjoy the summer right way up.
Endellion
30-04-07, 10:00 PM
Awww james link doesn't work is that a pic of it in your profile?
I am in a very lucky position that I can afford a new pointy but I will have to keep it for a few years, warranty etc give me piece of mind cause I don't know much about bike mechanics...yet!
Will not be able to afford to replace it for some time
Another reason to behave myself on the road he he
Have a great weekend on the bike James not that I need to tell you to!
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