Passed theory test onto DAS

I just passed my theory test (), thanks to some really helpful advice from Wayne and the rest of the forum (bl00dy hazard perception test).

I did want to ask for a little advice though. I went to the bike shop to look at the gear (and sit on the SV thats been there a little while so I am hoping I will be able to get a bargin on it) and the sales guy was suggesting its better to get the gear before doing the rest of your DAS. "Makes you look serious about doing it". I was wandering if this is good advice or sales patter.

I have my booster day (second day after CBT) in a couple of weeks, but cannot afford the gear until I sell my car, without dipping into my savings.

Thanks

Buy your gear off eBay or the forums 2nd hand and you will save a fortune, although I would only buy a helmet brand new!
My MRS got a full set of Alpinestar textiles and boots for around 100quid off eBay, then I think her gloves were 15quid.

I bought all my gear before I did my DAS, the instructors do tend to hold some gear but the chance of borrowing decent stuff which fits you properly is pretty slim, considering you will be on the bike for more than 6 hours a day in all weathers its well worth buying you own so thats your comfy and dry

I don't think any examiner is more likely to pass you because you've bought the right clothes. It's obviously important to have the correct safety wear but I wouldn't break the bank to look fantastic before you've even passed your test. The place I learnt lent me bike gear, I did then buy some fairly cheap stuff & have been upgrading it when money allows.
If the worst happens & you don't pass you're then not left with a load of kit you'll only get second hand prices for if you're in need of the cash.

[gruntygiggles]

Hmmm, I heard it from my examiners mouth as he said, You're obviously serious about safety as you've got great kit".

That seemed to me to come across in the manner that he felt I was a sensible and safe person who valued staying safe...therefore not so likely to do stupid things should I pass. Incidentally...the guy that I rode to the Mod 2 with who didn't pass was wearing jeans and a hoody with a leather (not bike) jacket, work boots and gloves.
He was a good rider, but he looked like the kind of guy you see doing wheelies to show off when pulling away from a bike meet. He looked irresponsible...so it must play a part in how you are perceived by the examiner...maybe whether the examiner is aware of that or not.

First appearances count.


Congrats on the Theory

I'd go buy a new lid, within your budget that fits you well.

Its also worth trying kit on to see what fits and is comfy. Leathers can got second hand of ebay for not too much, textiles are good investment as you can ride in all weather and not get wet ect, proving they are fully waterproof.

I'd say after a lid a back protector is really important to protect you spine. Make sure any amour stays in place in place it isn't good if it moves in a crash it just won't protect you.

Good luck and enjoy

Originally Posted by gruntygiggles

Hmmm, I heard it from my examiners mouth as he said, You're obviously serious about safety as you've got great kit".

That seemed to me to come across in the manner that he felt I was a sensible and safe person who valued staying safe...therefore not so likely to do stupid things should I pass. Incidentally...the guy that I rode to the Mod 2 with who didn't pass was wearing jeans and a hoody with a leather (not bike) jacket, work boots and gloves.
He was a good rider, but he looked like the kind of guy you see doing wheelies to show off when pulling away from a bike meet. He looked irresponsible...so it must play a part in how you are perceived by the examiner...maybe whether the examiner is aware of that or not.

I'm not saying don't buy the correct protective gear, just suggesting that you shouldn't break the bank of everything before you've passed your test

Thanks.

Originally Posted by HoL

I'm not saying don't buy the correct protective gear, just suggesting that you shouldn't break the bank of everything before you've passed your test

This is what I was thinking. Fortunately most of the gear I am looking at is not too bad. But I do really want to get a good lid. (I can get a headache from my bike lid even, must be an odd shape) Unfortunately the lid that fits me best is the Shoei XR1100 (or Qwest). I can afford this (will spend less on the bike) but obviously nervous as spending 300 quid before passing.

Well done on passing mate.

I bought a helmet as the loan ones steamed up like mad.

I also bought a set of boots, as the ones I was wearing were not flexible enough at the ankle, and I found changing gear a little with the ones I was wearing. I loaned the jacket and gloves from my instructors as it get expensive.

I know what you're instructor meant, but if you make a dangerous mistake you fail either way, so if money's tight, just buy what you think you need.

I highly doubt rushing to buy a new helmet will make a difference to you passing or failing.

Take your time and try to get your kit right first time (easier said than done)