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I did my test 3rd time lucky... although i didn't fail the first 2 tests as they were cancelled on me... i had to wait 20 days before they had an availability to do my test on the 2nd time, then that was cancelled, but luckily they had an availability the same day at a different test centre.

my test was cancelled the first time because the examiner didn't have time to take his lunch yet! the 2nd time because the examiner was late, but luckily i passed on the 3rd time with 2 minors.

[northwind]

Anyone can fail on the day, even the best rider. Sounds a bit odd, this one, though.

[Biker Biggles]

I'm sure I'd fail every day.Passing the test is a skill you have to practice,and very few of us ride like that normally.Do they still teach the Hendon shuffle?

I failed on a similar thing on my first test and my instructor agreed with most of the above, that the examiner might not have seen my head move, especially as I was wearing a plain black helmet.

His advice was the same as Shellywoozle's instructor, a vertical strip of electrical tape (in a contrasting colour) down the back of your lid will make your head movements a lot more noticeable. IMHO that's better than purposely exaggerating your head movements, 'cos if you don't have to concentrate that much on making sure you've been seen by the examiner then it's one less thing to worry about / be dsitracted by, and you'll be more relaxed on your test.

Good luck, you'll be fine next time

I'm with the others.............sounds like he didn't see you doing a lifesaver, or a proper one at least. You saw it in you mirrors, but that's not enough.

Could it have been more to do with the whole observation, position, etc routine (that I can't remember these days* ) rather than just a single part of it?

Either way, sounds like you were unlucky. Better luck next time



* goes to dig out copy of Roadcraft to refresh memory

Originally Posted by philh

Now, dont take this the wrong way, but maybe he just did'nt 'like' you? I dont mean that in terms of you personally, but your riding on the day. Here's what I'm getting at...
I thought I'd flunked my test (a couple of weeks ago). I'm sure I made some balls-ups. However, my trainer kept telling me to 'look confident, look professional'. Over the three days DAS I got the distinct impression that the examiners, here at least, give a bit of leeway if they get the general feeling that you deserve a licence.
...

Your correct there hun, more often than not tehy will mark you/pass you on how you body language is! eg; if you all tense/slumped over the bike they dont feel that your confident enough to ride just yet.
I totally lost my nerve 10 mins into my test, had a few tears, pulled myself together and relaxed..and the instructor said when we got back taht i improved after my intial bout of nerves

Do they still teach the Hendon shuffle?

This rings a bell, but can't remember what it is! Care to elaborate....