Module Two in brief
Module Two quick overview
Module Two (MOD2) is the on-road aspect of the two-part DVSA practical motorcycle test and is facilitated at designated test centres throughout the UK. Following on from Module One – this test examines rider skill and safety in commonly encountered road conditions, plus practical understanding of the highway code. Whilst test routes vary, test format is the same and takes around 50 minutes to complete.
The Module Two syllabus is relatively complex and adopting a DIY approach is not wise! Booking sufficient instruction with a DVSA certified training school will nearly always result in improved levels of preparation, confidence, safety, skill and a higher probability of a first-time pass.
“Passing your Module One test is merely the first rung of the ladder. Ask your instructor about intermediate rider training, such as the Enhanced Rider Scheme.” – Mike Harbon, Motorcycle Instructor & Advanced Rider.
Module Two test - what to take
Tests are cancelled, and test fees are lost when candidates arrive late or fail to take the following:
“Get yourself organised in plenty of time and have everything ready. Failing to do this will result in unnecessary stress and can lead to a test fail.” – Paul Barrett, Motorcycle Instructor & Advanced Rider.
Module Two clothing
It is recommended that riders wear leather motorcycle boots, armoured textile or leather motorcycle trousers and jacket, a motorcycle helmet that meets British Safety Standards, motorcycle gloves and a high-visibility vest. Wearing body worn airbag protection (motorcycle airvest) offers significant extra protection.
Failing to wear the correct clothing will result in a cancelled test. Minimum acceptable clothing requirements are:
- Motorcycle helmet: to British Safety Standards
- Sturdy footwear: to support and protect ankles
- Denim trousers: heavy denim (no holes/tears)
- Denim jacket: heavy denim (no holes/tears)
- Sufficient layers: for protection & weather appropriate
- Motorcycle gloves: good quality/condition
“Based on 25 years of PPE research – wearing the right clothing won’t save your life if you’re in a serious bike accident, you need to ride safely to do that; but the risk of sustaining life-changing injuries is significantly reduced with a good quality jacket, trousers, gloves and boots – particularly when fitted with body armour”. – Dr Ian Mew, Intensive Care Medicine & Air Ambulance Critical Care.
MOD2 rider faults and fails
The examiner can allow ten minor faults that don’t impact on candidate, road user or pedestrian safety. Examples include: positional errors, late indicating and in certain circumstances, missing an observation. More than ten minor faults will usually result in a fail, as would one major fault. Major faults include:
- Failing the eyesight test
- Missing documentation
- Failing to cancel a false indication
- Failing to carry out necessary ‘lifesavers’
- Actions that cause another vehicle to brake or swerve
- Using the wrong lane
- Failing to stop for pedestrians at a zebra crossing
- Failing to stop at a red traffic light
“If mistakes are made, leave them behind. Dwelling on faults can lead to prolonged riding problems. Put any mistakes behind you, relax and continue with the test.” – Laura Smith, Motorcycle Instructor – Women Only Motorcycle Training.
Module Two pre-ride checks
Small things matter, and the candidate should locate their key in the ignition before putting on their gloves. Once on the bike, the side stand should be stowed away, as the motorcycle could cut-out when first gear is selected. With the keys in the ignition and the side stand up – adopt the safety position prior to starting the engine. Visually check that the engine cut-out switch is in the correct position.
Before riding off, candidates are advised to re-check mirror position. With the engine started the examiner will give a radio check and allow the volume to be adjusted. With pre-ride checks complete, the examiner will direct the candidate to ride out of the test centre to commence the Module Two Test.
“If your visor is steaming up, open it slightly to clear the misting. If the view is impeded, safe decisions cannot be made.” – Laura Smith, CBT, DAS & ERS Instructor – Women Only Motorcycle Training.
Module Two essential audio guide
This comprehensive 21-track audio book, covering all aspects of Module Two is available free-of-charge and is a useful training enhancement tool for all Module Two test candidates. Get the Essential Module Two Audio Guide audio guide by joining VideoBiker free-of-charge. [join]
About the author
A full-time instructor since 1991, Simon Hayes is a veteran motorcycle training instructor and well known within the industry. Simon’s first six years as an instructor, were spent teaching military personnel, where he enjoyed a 100% success rate and earned a reputation for pre-DAS excellence in training high powered motorcycles skills.
Since 1996, Simon has operated a respected multi-site motorcycle training business covering Birmingham and the West Midlands. Twenty years of dedication to the highest possible standards of motorcycle training has forged a reputation for excellence and whilst Simon has seen many changes and challenges effecting the industry; his own training school has continued to thrive and grow. [more]
This article was first published in On Two Wheels (O2W) issue 15 and can be downloaded here.
