In the world of motorcycling, especially for newcomers, the term ‘A2’ is increasingly important. It’s not a highway or a document size, but rather a specific category of motorcycle. A2 Bikes are defined by their power output, capped at 47bhp (or 35kW), and are primarily designed for riders who hold an A2 motorcycle license – often those who are newer to the sport.
When you’re looking to buy a new A2-compliant motorcycle today, you’ll generally find two main types. Firstly, many manufacturers produce bikes specifically built to meet these A2 regulations right out of the factory. A prime example is Honda’s CB500 range, engineered precisely with the 35kW limit in mind. Other popular A2 bikes in this category include Kawasaki’s Z400 and Ninja 400, Yamaha’s sporty YZF-R3 and the naked MT-03, and KTM’s dynamic RC 390 and Duke 390.
The second type of A2 bike is derived from motorcycles with higher power outputs that can be restricted to meet A2 limits. Models like the Honda CB650 series, Kawasaki’s 650 lineup, the Yamaha MT-07 (previously MT-09 in the original article, corrected to MT-07 as MT-09 typically exceeds restriction limits for A2), and Triumph’s Trident 660 fall into this category. These bikes, in their standard form, produce more than 47bhp (but generally not exceeding 95bhp before restriction), and are designed to accommodate official restrictor kits. These kits, fitted by dealerships, reduce the bike’s power to the legal A2 limit, making them suitable for A2 license holders.
Is an A2 License Bike My Only Option?
The A2 license category was introduced to phase in newer, younger riders to larger motorcycles in a staged approach, preventing immediate access to high-powered machines for those with limited experience.
For riders younger than 19, the initial step is to ride motorcycles of 125cc or less – the A1 category. While a full motorcycle test isn’t mandatory for riding a 125cc on ‘L’ plates after completing CBT (Compulsory Basic Training), progressing to an A2 bike unaccompanied requires further steps. You’ll need to pass the CBT, a motorcycle theory test, and then a two-part practical exam. MOD1 assesses off-road slow speed skills, and MOD2 is a standard on-road riding examination.
After holding an A2 license for a minimum of two years, and being at least 21 years old, riders can advance to an unrestricted, full motorcycle license. This is achieved by taking a further, more advanced riding test on a suitable motorcycle. For riders aged 24 and over, there’s the option of ‘Direct Access,’ allowing them to bypass the A2 license and go straight for a full, unrestricted license without the interim A2 stage.
Can I Take My Motorcycle Test on an A2 Bike?
Yes, you can, but there are specific criteria. The motorcycle used for the A2 test must indeed comply with A2 regulations. Additionally, it must have an engine capacity of at least 395cc (thus excluding Yamaha’s ‘300’ models like the R3 and MT-03 for test purposes, despite them being A2 compliant bikes) and produce a minimum of 27bhp.
While examiners might request proof of your bike’s eligibility, typically in the form of a manufacturer’s letter or dealer confirmation, this is less common if you are using a motorcycle provided by a certified riding school for your test. Riding schools usually ensure their bikes meet all testing regulations.
Is Restricting a More Powerful Bike a Viable Option?
Yes, with some important caveats.
While there isn’t a maximum engine capacity for A2 license bikes, the regulations stipulate that the standard, unrestricted version of the motorcycle must not produce more than 95bhp. This power limit is a key reason why many modern middleweight motorcycles are engineered to hover around this power output.
Power-to-weight ratio is also a critical factor to prevent loopholes using very light, yet still A2-compliant, motorcycles. Restricted A2 bikes must have a power-to-weight ratio of 0.2kW per kg or less and cannot be restricted to more than 50% of their original power. This rule effectively prevents restricting high-performance modern sportbikes for A2 compliance, although some older 600cc models might still meet the criteria. However, a broad spectrum of motorcycles, including larger cruisers and touring bikes, can indeed be restricted to meet A2 requirements.
How Are A2 Bikes Restricted?
There’s no single method for restricting a motorcycle to A2 specifications. Modern bikes typically employ electronic restrictions, involving reprogramming the Engine Control Unit (ECU) and the throttle. Older, more mechanically oriented bikes might use physical restrictors in the inlet or exhaust ports, or mechanisms to limit throttle opening.
Is it a Complicated Process?
For modern motorcycles, restriction is generally straightforward. Manufacturer-approved kits are designed to seamlessly retune the bike, ensuring good performance within the A2 limits. Most new A2-compliant bikes can still comfortably exceed highway speeds and have sufficient power for carrying a passenger.
DIY restriction can be more complex. The bike’s performance characteristics might be compromised, particularly when restricting high-revving, multi-cylinder engines. While restriction kits are available for some older, popular models, and can be fitted by a competent home mechanic, fully DIY restrictions need careful attention to regulations. Incorrectly restricted bikes could lead to legal issues if the power output exceeds limits, potentially resulting in fines, invalid insurance, and legal repercussions for riding without the correct license.
Can I Ride a Classic Motorcycle on an A2 License?
Absolutely! If a classic motorcycle meets the A2 regulations, either in its original form or with a restrictor, it is perfectly legal to ride on an A2 license. Many older bikes naturally fall within the A2 power limits, while others can be made compliant with a restrictor kit.
What About Electric Motorcycles and A2 Licenses?
Many electric motorcycles, such as models from Zero Motorcycles, are classified as A2 bikes, even though their peak power might exceed 69bhp. Regulations for electric motorcycles differ slightly from petrol-powered bikes, focusing on ‘continuous power’ rather than ‘peak power’. Expect to see a growing number of electric A2-compliant motorcycles in the future as electric technology advances.
What Happens After Passing My Full Motorcycle Test?
Upon passing your full, unrestricted motorcycle test, you can continue riding your A2 bike as it is. If your bike was restricted for A2 compliance, you have the option to derestrict it, unlocking its full power. Remember to inform your insurance provider of any changes to your motorcycle’s performance or license status.
