Looking to learn how to drive a bike - Need help!

BlackWizard

I've been wanting to learn how to drive a bike for years and I think this year is the year
I'm a complete noob when it comes to bikes. I don't even know how they change gears.

I need some help with a few things. Do I need to complete a theory test or get any sort of license before I can go to a driving school for lessons?

What driving school would you suggest? Preferably it should include the Initial Basic Training (IBT) which I read is mandatory now.
I live in Dublin, I'm 25 and have a full car driving license.

Also I'm really tall.. 6'3 so would it be hard to find a bike that I would be comfortable on?

Here's a list of schools I have found so far.
ISM - http://www.ism.ie/index.php?page=initial_basic_training_ibt&phpMyAdmin=rfamJoAHyR9dU-cqH9k0bvZOky4
Leinster Driving Campus - http://www.leinsterdrivingcampus.ie/ibt.html
Bike Safe(David Lyons) - http://www.motorbiketraining.net/c_b_t_training.htm
Motorcycle Safety Associates - http://www.msa-ireland.com/courses.htm#foundationcourse

seanybiker

6'3 isn't that tall so you should find a bike no probs. I heard that David Lyons chap is supposed to be good.

paddy147

David Lyons is very good indeed.

KamiKazi

seanybiker wrote: »

6'3 isn't that tall so you should find a bike no probs. I heard that David Lyons chap is supposed to be good.

Dunno bout that, I'm only 5'11 and I'm finding it hard to find a 600cc bike that's comfortable.

hence me selling the Sv and moving on to a Firestorm

cantdecide

I'm 6'4" and I learned on a restricted Bandit 600. The adventure style bikes are probably the best option for tall riders.

The first question is what kind of bikes you like?

CJhaughey

You would be best off on a big trailie, something like the Honda XR650L they have a 37" seat height. Don't confuse that with a XR650R which is a completely different bike.
Big trailbikes are also good for learning on, wide bars and upright seating make them easy to control and give good visibility. They are also narrow which helps in tight spots.

BlackWizard

Have to keep this short, on my phone.

So I presume I need to complete my motorcycle theory test? Do I get an A or A1 or do I have a choice?

I like the 600 bandit, but its probably too powerful for me. Im looking for a bike that isn't too powerful so it will be easy to insure and cheap on fuel but mainly comfort and being able to carry luggage boxes.

I'm more worried right now about choosing the right instructor because I have a car so I'm not too rushed to buy a bike. It's a pity its so expensive, I'd love to bring my dad on the course too.

KamiKazi

Get the A license, A1 limits you to 125cc

If you bring your Da it'll be cheap as there's a group discount on IBT with most instructors.

cantdecide

http://www.donedeal.ie/for-sale/motorbikes/2039543

The like of this is the ideal learners' bike, IMO. This one is restricted to 33bhp from the factory so it's legal to learn on and you get cheaper insurance, unlike full power bikes that have an aftermarket restrictor. The bike is substancial enough to keep after you become comfortable driving. I started on one and I'm not a lifelong biker.

** Don't assume you can't have the bikes you want- double check insurance etc every time **

BlackWizard

This theory test is confusing me now. It doesn't give me a choice of what exam I can do. I have to choose just motorcycle/moped. So does that mean its the same test for both? Also on the theory test revision material site there is no specific material for bikes. So I can just use my old car material? Kinda sucks if it is the same exam...

I'll enquire about getting a discount if I bring my dad, thanks!

Wossack

yea same theory test for A/A1/M

as for content, Im afraid I dont know... believe its the same book, just additional chapters in it, but I cant be certain

HellsAngel

BlackWizard wrote: »

I've been wanting to learn how to drive a bike for years and I think this year is the year
I'm a complete noob when it comes to bikes. I don't even know how they change gears.

I need some help with a few things. Do I need to complete a theory test or get any sort of license before I can go to a driving school for lessons?

What driving school would you suggest? Preferably it should include the Initial Basic Training (IBT) which I read is mandatory now.
I live in Dublin, I'm 25 and have a full car driving license.

Also I'm really tall.. 6'3 so would it be hard to find a bike that I would be comfortable on?

Here's a list of schools I have found so far.
ISM - http://www.ism.ie/index.php?page=initial_basic_training_ibt&phpMyAdmin=rfamJoAHyR9dU-cqH9k0bvZOky4
Leinster Driving Campus - http://www.leinsterdrivingcampus.ie/ibt.html
Bike Safe(David Lyons) - http://www.motorbiketraining.net/c_b_t_training.htm
Motorcycle Safety Associates - http://www.msa-ireland.com/courses.htm#foundationcourse

As for been tall, depends on what style of bike you would like to ride when you have learnt. A sports bike such as a Honda CBR 600 may be uncomfortable for you http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_CBR600F3

What is called a Dual Sports bike such as an African Twin might suit you better - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_XRV750

Or else a Cruiser which is what some people would refer to as a Harley style bike should also be ok for a tall guy http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Types_of_motorcycles

BlackWizard

Well I passed my Theory test this morning. Got 46 out of 50 correct So just about passed! I started studying at 12.30am Friday night and finished at 3am. Felt like I was back in college again..

I have my training with David Lyons at the end of the month. So until then I'll be watching videos of bikers on YouTube and Sons of Anarchy

seanybiker

Congrats on passing the theory test. You be flying in no time

mikemac

Dave Lyons will see you right, top instructor

Wossack

seanybiker wrote: »

Congrats on passing the theory test. You be flying in no time

flying? he took the wrong theory test so!

seanybiker

Wossack wrote: »

flying? he took the wrong theory test so!

Might go over the crest of a hill a bit to fast

AnonymousPrime

This is one of the tallest bikes I can think of:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honda_XL125V_Varadero