The Training Process

Most people have similar questions regarding the motorcycle lessons and the training process. For your convenience we have attempted to answer the most common of them here. Answers to questions about the licensing process are available on the licensing info page. There may be questions which remain unanswered or for which you might like further explanation - please don't hesitate to contact us and we will discuss these with you.

What does it cost?

Details of the lesson pricing structures are available on the pricing page.

How many lessons will I need?

This is impossible to answer as everyone learns at different rates and it also depends on previous experience (if any), your own physical and mental confidence and the frequency of your lessons. We have kept records for some time to try and answer this question but the range of results is meaningless. We have taken people in for their assessment after only two lessons whilst others need many more lessons to gain the necessary skills and confidence. It is really up to you and your instructor to decide on the number of lessons you will require. You will know when you are ready to take the test. You can contact us to discuss this further if you wish.

What if I have never ridden before?

Alert's training process is very flexible and students progress through the various stages at their own pace as their confidence builds. Basic riding skills and bike familiarization are learned in a controlled and quiet off road environment. You won't be on the road until you are ready! You and the instructor will decide when you have the necessary skills and confidence to be safe in the road environment.

What if I have ridden before?

Many people come to us with off road or other riding experience. We still begin in a controlled environment but less time is usually needed to master the basic machine skills prior to venturing into traffic. Your instructor will work with you to determine your particular needs and set up the appropriate exercises.

What bike will I be learning on?

Our bikes are all late model, regularly serviced and mechanically sound. See the motorcycles and scooters pages for more information.

What do I need?

You will need a learners permit for the appropriate class of license. This is a requirement under the Road Traffic Act (2000). The learners permit allows you to ride on the road whilst being supervised by a licensed instructor. You are required to carry the permit with you at all times when you are riding on the road and be aware of and adhere to the conditions printed on the back. You can obtain a permit from any Licensing Centre.

What should I wear?

We provide full face helmets and wet weather gear. You will definitely need to wear long pants or jeans and covered shoes or boots (the sturdier the better - but steel capped boots are not very suitable). Gloves are optional but highly recommended - we have a collection of our gloves available but most people prefer to provide their own. Singlets, shorts, thongs or sandals are all unsuitable for motorcycle riding.

When do I ride in traffic?

Simple - when you are ready. This will be determined by you and your instructor. There is a basic set of machine skills you need to have before you can safely venture into traffic. No matter your previous riding experience our curriculum includes essential road positioning and road craft theory. This is covered before we ride on public streets. Introduction to traffic conditions is achieved gradually starting with quiet suburban back streets before moving into larger and busier roads as your confidence and ability builds.

What is in the test?

The examiners will look at your basic riding skills and roadcraft. You will need to demonstrate an emergency stop (normally within 12 metres from a signal at 50 kilometres an hour in full control of the bike - greater distance is allowed in wet weather), figure 'Os' (slow control) and a hill park and start. You will be given a set of directions and the examiner will follow you as you ride through normal road and traffic conditions to observe and assess your roadcraft. You have to demonstrate that you are safe, that you understand road positioning and that you understand and obey road traffic law. The test is essentially the same for all classes of motorcycle license.

Where can I go to do the practical riding test?

Alert services all the metropolitan licensing centres. See the licensing info page for location details.

What do I need for the 'R' class license?

For the 'R' class (any size motorcycle) license you no longer need to get a learners permit. The practical test is essentially the same as the 'RE' license test. You must have the 'RE' licence for twelve months before you are eligible to sit the 'R' class riding test. If you are riding an R class bike on an RE license you must display an L plate and be riding in the company of someone who has held the R license for years or a licensed instructor.

What happens if it is raining for my lesson or test?

Students usually have some apprehension about riding in wet conditions. Lessons and tests will go ahead as scheduled. Our method of motorcycle riding makes riding in the wet as safe and enjoyable as riding in perfect conditions. We have a range of wet weather gear for students to use. Required stopping distances in the emergency stop test are increased according to the conditions.

Can I do lessons with a friend or partner?

Yes. We provide several methods of instruction including group tuition and two-to-one lessons. Two people can learn together with a single instructor but it needs to be understood that people learn at different rates and with the attention of the instructor split between two students the overall training process will take longer. We recommend that lessons are least one and half hours long. Discount rates may apply for two-to-one lessons.

Can I do lessons from my home?

Although Alert does not normally go to private homes to conduct lessons there are circumstances in which it may be possible. You should bear in mind that the instructor's travelling time may have to be taken into account when determining the fee. You can contact us directly to discuss your particular situation.

I already own a motorbike - can I use it for lessons and the test?

It is possible to do your lessons on your own bike but we would generally advise against it. We have chosen our fleet of motorcycles carefully to serve the needs of the beginner in each class. You also need to be aware of your obligations as advised on the back of the permit regarding being in the company of an appropriately licensed person on the road etc. to get to and from the lessons and the test centre.

How do I go about booking a test?

You can book a test by phoning the Department. The details are on the back of your permit. Details of the licensing centre locations are on the licensing info page.

Do you have bikes suitable for shorter riders?

We have a lowered CB250 for RE riders and a specially lowered Suzuki GS500 for R class riders.