Modern Vespa

Hi,been reading posts on this site for a while, but don't know if anyone is going to be able to offer any advice. In May I bought a used 2014 125 Primavera, which I love.
Did my CBT and have been riding around since.
I am a bit long in the tooth so it is unlikely I will get a bigger bike, and not interested in Motorbikes so Vespa is really all I am interested in.
However I don't want to ride round on L plates, so I did my theory test which I passed, now I need to do the parts 1 and 2 of the practical test. Which I intend to do on my 125 Vespa, does anyone know how strict the dress code is, ie boots, special jacket etc.

I am not going to a school, just intend to do the test. As I think it is much cheaper to just do the test and find out what I did wrong and maybe I will pass first time.

I just don't want an L plate on my Vespa and at my age I feel a bit embarrassed of the big L

Really wish I had done the test in the 80s but in those days I needed my car licence for work.

Kind regards

The only "legal" requirement in the UK is a helmet. If their insurance requires you to suit up, which is unlikely, they should provide a jacket. They will probably give you a high vis vest to go over what ever you're wearing.

The L's do make other motorist's assume the worst sadly!

Welcome to forum and good luck on your test's!

You might want to check out YouTube for videos on the bike test. I got plenty of good tips from YouTube videos and passed my test with no lessons. You can also find out what area they do the bike test in and get used to the roads out there.

I know nothing about the protocol for a Brit riding test, and I know I sound like someone's grandmother - but, I would wear the same stuff I wear when I ride. For me that is to say, a good 3/4 or full helmet, eye protection, sturdy over the ankle shoes or boots, and good gloves; as well as clothing appropriate to the occasion. Partially that is me, but that is also what is generally expected at US Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) riding sessions.

Good luck with the test.

I think you will struggle with the Module 1 high speed manoeuvres if you haven't practised. They are difficult enough on a much bigger machine! Try and set up the required layout and practise them.

Hey, no need to feel embarrassed about the "L". Actually, I think it's a good idea and I would welcome it here. Let's not kid ourselves - new riders are basically guaranteed to make mistakes, including clumsy riding ones, so it's better when other drivers are aware of their inexperience. Don't let your ego control/limit your safe fun riding.

I would at least wear a pair of jeans and a pair of sturdy boots

a decent jacket and helmet and gloves

turn up wearing a hi viz as the examiner likes it if you have your own

Depends what you look like really. Short skirts and crop tops look good on some.........

Otherwise, sensible riding gear to make the examiner confident that you're taking this riding lark seriously.

Good luck and welcome to Vespa world!

The examiner can refuse to administer the test if they feel you're not wearing appropriate attire to the point of compromising your safety.

That said, a helmet, gloves, a jacket of some kind, jeans and boots that cover your ankles should suffice. However, as above, the better the 'gear' you wear, the more confident the examiner will be in your experience and knowledge, and that will help a lot.

Having done Mod 1 and Mod 2 in the past two years (passed both first time!) I'd suggest at least some practice so you know what you're getting in to.

There are several manoeuvres on the Mod 1, some with minimum speed requirements (measured by timing lights) and if you don't practice, you tend not to realise how fast you have to go.

You'll also need to practice u turn (between 2 white lines), slalom, manual handling, slow riding, emergency stop and a couple more.

Whatever you decide, good luck.

Practice, practice, practice.

I took MOD 1 and MOD 2 earlier this year - Vespa rider, but I went for a full licence.

I recommend lessons. The tests are not 'easy', and they shouldn't be. You learn a lot on a course which might save your life.

As far as gear is concerned, yes there is a legal minimum - but there is also a level below which the instructor may indicate you have not thought things through. That includes boots, gloves, and ideally jacket and trousers which offer some protection.

I'm also long in the tooth - but, hopefully, not so decrepit that I can't learn.

Beerman