Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs
The list of frequently asked questions comprises a list of most of the questions that are asked about either the Vancouver Island Motorcycle School or general questions surrounding obtaining your Motorcycle license. If you have a question that is not covered by this list, click here.
How do I get my license?
There are 3 or 4 tests (depending on if you’re in the GLP program) involved in in getting your motorcycle license. The fist test is a knowledge test that is done on a computer at your local ICBC testing office. The best way to prepare for the knowledge test is to read the ICBC booklet Learn to Ride Smart. You can find a copy of it here: https://www.icbc.com/driver-licensing/driving-guides/Pages/Learn-to-Ride-Smart.aspx
The second test is the skills test, which is done in a parking lot. This is a test of your balance and control of the motorcycle and is mostly low-speed manoeuvres. The third test is your road test. This is about 45 minutes long and is essentially you going for a ride, with the tester following you in a car, and telling you where to turn. If you are in the Graduated Licensing Program, you will have to do an additional road test to get your full license.
Do you do any of the testing yourself?
No, there are very strict rules for schools to follow to be allowed to conduct the skills test, and it simply isn’t feasible to do private lesson courses long enough to qualify.
I can ride, but my bike is too big to do the skills test on. Can I rent one from you for the test?
No, but I can teach you how to ride yours well enough that passing the tests is a joke.
I don't have a motorcycle, Can I rent one for my tests?
The answer is still no, but if you take training, you can use the bike you learn on for your tests.
Where are you located?
I’m based out of Duncan, but I travel around Vancouver Island. You don’t necessarily have to come to me for training. However, if you don’t have a motorcycle and need to use one of mine for your tests, you will have to do the tests in Duncan.
Who should take training?
Anyone who rides, or is interested in riding motorcycles should take training. There is no better investment that you can make in your motorcycle.
Why should I take training?
Motorcycles are easy to ride, but riding them well is a different story. There’s a lot of things about motorcycles that are counter-intuitive, and there are a lot of skills that should be practiced. Practice is most effective when you have someone there to show you how to improve.
I'm short, how do I know I'll be able to ride the motorcycles you provide?
People place WAY too much importance on the idea that they should be able to put both feet flat on the ground. This is really unimportant. The most common crash that new riders have is not getting their foot down when they are stopping. This is almost always caused by trying to put both feet down, rather than committing to putting one foot down and leaning the bike to that side. The motorcycle is much better balanced when there are 3 points of contact than 4, anyway. So it really just is better to put one foot down, and just commit to it. But if you are really worried, we can arrange for you to try sitting on a motorcycle before you sign up for training.
What do I need to have so I can take lessons from you?
To start your training, you need to have a valid BC motorcycle license, or motorcycle learners license. You will also need gear. You will need a (good) DOT or SNELL approved helmet, gloves, boots, a jacket, and suitable pants. Jeans and a denim jacket will suffice but are not recommended. Actual riding gear is best. If you have any questions about your gear, just email and I’ll get back to you.
How do I sign up for training?
Just send me an email and we’ll set up times for your lessons, based on your schedule and your needs.
Why don't you have a phone number that I can call?
Unfortunately, I simply don’t have the time to answer calls, or return them at a reasonable time. I have learned that most people don’t appreciate someone returning a business call at midnight, so email is the best means of communication at this point.