Obtaining a Standard (A2) licence is often the best route for those who have no immediate plans to ride a more powerful motorcycle. But for some, the two-year (25kw/33bhp) restriction or ‘qualification’ period can begin to seem like a long time to wait if plans change which bring to light the advantages of increasing power, speed, tank range, luggage space and comfort. Luckily, the Accelerated Access Scheme exists to allow riders (provided they have reached the age of 21) to gain immediate and unrestricted access to the full range of motorcycles available.
Transferring riding skills from a smaller machine to a larger, more powerful one is not as difficult as it might seem. In fact, it is rarely the case that additional skills need be developed to successfully make the transition. In most cases it is simply a matter of revisiting a few of the basic riding techniques in order to ensure that there are no obvious flaws which perhaps may be more likely to surface when applied to a machine with higher specification and performance.
As is the case with the Direct Access Scheme (DAS), the full category ‘A’ entitlement is achieved by successful completion of the practical motorcycle tests on a machine which has a minimum power output of 35kW/46.6bhp. Candidates must be at least 21 years old but unlike DAS, they are not required to produce a valid CBT or Theory test certificate having previously gained a Standard (restricted) category ‘A’ license.
A great advantage with the Accelerated Access Scheme is that it is effectively a “no risk” test for riders. Failure to pass either of the practical tests will not affect the status of your Standard (restricted) category ‘A’ license or the length of time remaining on your two-year qualification period. Success, however, will result in an instant upgrade to a full and unrestricted category ‘A’ licence, giving you all of the benefits normally enjoyed by successful DAS candidates.
The rider training offered at Saltire Suzuki is second to none, which is why it has attracted riders from across the Lothians and throughout the Central Belt. You may wish to take the test on your own motorcycle or use one of our bikes which are available to hire – but remember that it must have a power output of at least 46.6bhp. The instructors at Saltire Suzuki are highly experienced in assessing a rider’s skill level, allowing them to pitch instruction at the most appropriate level for you!
