Starting your motorcycle journey can be equal parts exciting and nerve-wracking — especially when you don’t know what to expect. At Passmasters, we’re all about making that first step as welcoming and confidence-building as possible. This guide will walk you through what your first lesson is really like and help you feel more prepared (and less anxious) when it’s time to ride.
🧠 What is the BHST?
The Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST) is the first practical step toward getting your motorcycle licence in New Zealand. It’s designed to assess your ability to safely control a motorcycle in a controlled, off-road environment. Most new riders complete it in a single session that includes both training and testing.
📅 Before You Arrive
Here’s how to set yourself up for success:
- What to bring:
- Your driver licence (NZ or international, if applicable)
- Long pants (must be fully covering) and a zip-up jacket
- Sturdy, closed footwear (boots preferred)
- Water and a positive mindset!
- Don’t have gear? We can supply helmets and gloves. You’ll need to bring your own jacket, pants, and footwear that meet safety requirements.
🕘 How the Session Runs
Expect the full BHST session to run for about 2–3 hours, depending on group size and how many people are testing that day.
1. Welcome & Briefing
We’ll start with a friendly intro and safety briefing. Your instructor will explain the layout, go over the gear, and check you’re set up correctly on the bike.
2. Warm-up & Familiarisation
Before any testing happens, you’ll get time to warm up. This is where we show you how to use the clutch, throttle, brakes, and gears — all at a learner pace.
3. Training Through the Test Exercises
We guide you through each of the test exercises in a supportive, step-by-step way. These include:
- Straight-line riding
- Cornering
- Braking and stopping under control
- Figure 8 turns
- Slow-speed riding
You’ll have time to practice before the actual test begins.
4. The Test
When you’re ready, we run you through the test exactly as required by NZTA. It’s not a trick — we’re here to help you pass, not fail you.
5. Feedback & Next Steps
After the test, your instructor will go over your results. If you pass, you’ll receive a BHST certificate that you can take to VTNZ or AA to book your learner licence theory test.
If you need more practice, that’s okay too — we’ll explain what to work on and help you book another session if needed.
😅 Nervous? You’re Not Alone
Most new riders are nervous before their first lesson. That’s totally normal. Our instructors are patient, supportive, and used to working with complete beginners. We’ll never rush you or make you feel out of place.
“I’d never ridden before, and I was shaking with nerves — but the instructor was calm and encouraging, and now I’m hooked on riding.” — First-time rider, Hamilton
🏁 What Happens Next?
Once you pass the BHST, you’re ready to:
- Book and pass the Learner Licence Theory Test
- Hit the road under the learner conditions
- Join a Ride Forever Bronze Course to grow your skills further
✅ Quick Checklist for Your First Motorcycle Lesson
| Item | Bring Your Own | We Can Provide |
|---|---|---|
| Helmet | ✅ | ✅ |
| Gloves | ✅ | ✅ |
| Zip-up Jacket | ✅ | ❌ |
| Fully Covered Pants | ✅ | ❌ |
| Boots | ✅ | ❌ |
| Licence ID | ✅ | ❌ |
| A great attitude | ✅ | ❤️ |
💬 Have Questions?
Check out our FAQs page or contact us — we’re always happy to chat.
Ready to get started? Book your BHST session now and take the first step toward two-wheeled freedom!