Hourly Lessons are now available at Abbey Rider Training. Booking a course over a few days is still a popular route to gaining a licence, however, after speaking to our customers we have decided to offer training on an hourly basis for those who are not in such a rush.

Training like this has several benefits. For more information click here.

To train for direct access I chose the new hourly lessons from Abbey Rider Training. With the help of their experienced training staff, I was able to customise my training to suit my experience and fit around my daily commitments. Hourly lessons worked out cheaper for me than the four day DAS course. They also removed the pressure of a fixed length course, allowing me to take the tests when I felt ready. Many thanks to the team at Abbey Rider! -Tom P. Swindon.

The 'DSA motorcycle update' newsletter from 16^th September 2010 outlines the changes to the Module 2 motorcycle test. These changes introduce a brief period (approximately ten minutes) of what the DSA are calling 'Independant Riding'

“ During this part of the test, candidates will have to ride by either following traffic signs, following a series of directions or a combination of both. These changes will not have any impact on the Module 1 test.

What is the aim of independant riding?

The aim is not to test the riders orientation skills, but to assess their ability to demonstrate riding skills whilst they take something approaching the level of responsibility that will be required when they ride 'unsupervised'

Removing instruction given by the examiner for a period of approximately 10 minutes will give candidates the opportunity to ride as if they were on their own. During this period, the rider can show they are able to make decisions in a timely and independant manner, managing both route and traffic conditions.

During the test briefing the examiner will tell the candidate that if they forget where they were asked to go, they should pull up at a safe place and the examiner will join them (the same as if there is a radio problem).

To help when asked to follow verbal directions, the examiner will show the candidate a simple diagram. ”

'Arry Says,

This change to the test will not mean a change to the training we deliver. We have always placed the emphasis on safe riding rather than just learning pre-set test routes (which are also due to be withdrawn from circulation).

Obviously, Swindon (famed for its' many roundabouts) does have some quirks that could catch out riders from other areas. Luckily we are located so close to the test centre that even riders training with us that are not familiar with Swindon will have gained some local knowledge before sitting their tests.

Pet Food Run to the Blue Cross, Burford. August 2010.

On 30^th August 2010, we were joined by around fifty riders (most of whom had passed their test with us) to take part in our charity pet food run to the 'Blue Cross' animal centre in Burford.

Unlike the average bank holiday Monday, the sun was out and everyone had a great time. The pet food was very gratefully received, and the staff were obviously surprised at how much there was.

The Abbey Rider Training van was at the back of the group making it possible for everyone to ride without being loaded up.

'A few tins of cat food?' erm, no! We're bikers and we don't do things by half! The van was full to capacity with food for cats, dogs, horses and even chickens. There will be no hungry animals in Burford for a while.

Many thanks to everyone who made this event such a success, especially those who donated so much. A special thanks must go to Jane from 'Pets Pantry' in Wooton Bassett.

We will definitely be looking to recreate a similar event next year and we will try to incorporate more time for coo-ing over the cats, you big bunch of softies!

Same time next year?

Many more photos here.