Modern Vespa

Just a quick query.... I am sure I know the answer, but wanted clarification.

I have a full UK licence with a an expired (of this month) restriction. I quote:

A =<25KW,78

The 78 means that I must only ride an automatic. Technically though I think I have a provisional licence for a 125cc manual.

If it is a provisional licence for a manual, then I will need to wear L-plates on said shifty. Correct?

And if I didn't? Would plod be likely to turn a blind eye if I rode without them? Or would I instantly get hammered with three penalty points for not doing so?

Just wondering.

As far as I am aware you can use a manual (125 or under) with L's on.

Looks like you are regarded as a learner on a manual bike with the usual restrictions that apply. You can take your chances without the L's but I suspect plod may take a dim view. Ignorance of the law is no defence.

This taken from a google search:

A2 - Restricted UK bike licence

Full UK bike licence with a two-year power restriction on what you can ride.

Designed for those not wanting to ride anything too powerful for two years and the only licence option available to those aged 17-20. This licence can be gained using either a manual or automatic motorcycle. If you take your test on an automatic, you may only ride an automatic, which means that will only be able ride a manual bike as a learner. If you take your test on a manual bike, you can ride either manual or automatic.

As above. I had a Suzuki Marauder shifty for about a year - but found it very boring.

I might do DAS soon - for two reasons - one that I can legally ride a shifty of any size any time I choose, and two to be able to speak from experience about the new test.

Plans already afoot to go shifty in the WM house.

Those gears won't change themselves.

I've been saying this for years (mostly so I could hire a bike abroad if necessary), but haven't quite found the time, dosh and inclination yet.

I have a full all singing and dancing ride the hell outta anything you like licence already........ 8)

To answer your initial question, Plod would turn a blind eye to you not wearing L plates, until Plod caught you doing something then would hammer you, even the old " well they were on when I set off and must have blown off in the wind" won't help you!!
It's a gamble but depends on whether it's one you want to take. If you do then ride in the middle of a large group of sccoters that way you'll probably get away with it!