If you’re new to riding, sorting gear can feel like a minefield.
In New Zealand, a helmet is legally required — but for real-world safety, we strongly recommend full protective gear every ride.
At Passmasters Rider Training, we also take a clear stance on materials:
Full leather offers the best abrasion protection. But we also get that budgets are real — so our advice is simple:
Buy the best you can afford, and upgrade smart over time.
Quick Answer
New motorcyclists in NZ should wear:
Approved helmet (legal requirement)
Armoured jacket
Protective gloves
Protective pants
Over-the-ankle boots
We recommend leather wherever practical for slide protection, and CE-rated impact protection in key areas (shoulders, elbows, back, hips, knees).
Helmet First (Don’t Compromise)
A properly fitted full-face helmet is the best option for most new riders.
If you’re spending money anywhere, spend it here first.
Leather vs Textile (Our Take)
Leather
Best abrasion resistance in a slide
Durable and consistent protection
Ideal for road riding
Textile
Lighter and often more breathable
Better in wet weather
More affordable (especially entry-level)
If your goal is maximum crash protection: leather wins. If budget is tight: good textile with proper armour is still far better than casual clothing.
Understanding Armour “Levels” (This Is Where People Get Confused)
Most motorcycle armour (in jackets and pants) is rated under CE impact standards.
Level 1 vs Level 2 (The Ones You’ll See Most)
Level 1 armour
Basic impact protection
Often comes standard in entry-level gear
Usually thinner / more flexible
Better than nothing, good starting point
Level 2 armour
Higher impact absorption than Level 1
Often a bit thicker (but modern Level 2 can still be slim)
Recommended for riders wanting the best protection
In plain English: Level 2 generally cushions impacts better than Level 1.
So What’s “Level 3”?
You’ll hear “Level 3” talked about online, but it’s not commonly used as an official, universal armour rating for jackets/pants the same way Level 1 and Level 2 are.
When riders say “Level 3”, they usually mean one of these:
Upgrading to premium Level 2 armour (better coverage, better materials)
Adding additional protection systems, like:
Chest protectors
Better back protectors
Airbag vests/jackets (huge step up for impact protection)
So, if you want the “next level” beyond standard armour, think: High-quality Level 2 + better coverage + optional airbag.
The Smart Budget Move: Buy Upgradeable Gear Now, Improve Armour Later
This is one of the best ways to save money upfront without compromising long term.
Here’s the strategy we recommend at Passmasters:
✅ Buy a quality jacket and pants you like and will actually wear ✅ Make sure they have:
Good abrasion resistance (leather preferred)
Proper stitching and construction
Armour pockets in the right places ✅ Start with whatever armour it comes with (often Level 1)
Then later:
⬆️ Upgrade to Level 2 armour inserts for:
Shoulders
Elbows
Back
Hips
Knees
Why this works
You avoid paying top-dollar upfront
You don’t need to replace the whole jacket/pants later
Armour upgrades are often a fraction of the cost of new gear
You can prioritise upgrades (e.g. back protector first)
Upgrade Priority List (Best Bang for Buck)
If you’re upgrading over time, we’d do it in this order:
Back protector (often sold separately and a big improvement)
Knees + elbows (high-impact areas)
Hips + shoulders
Consider airbag as the premium upgrade path
Gloves, Pants, Boots (Still Non-Negotiable)
Gloves
Look for:
Leather palms
Knuckle protection
Secure wrist closure
Pants
Options:
Leather pants (best slide protection)
Quality textile pants
Riding jeans with proper protection
Boots
Aim for:
Over-the-ankle
Stiff sole
Ankle reinforcement
Bottom Line (Passmasters Advice)
Leather is best for abrasion protection
Level 2 armour is best for impact protection
Start with what you can afford, but choose gear you can upgrade
You can save money upfront by upgrading armour later instead of replacing the whole kit
Choosing Gear Based on the Kind of Rider You Are
Not all riders need the same setup.
Before you buy gear, ask yourself:
What kind of rider am I going to be?
🌧 All-Weather Rider
If you’re planning to ride year-round — commuting, training, weekend rides regardless of conditions — your gear strategy should reflect that.
You may want:
A dedicated summer set
A dedicated winter set
Summer Gear
Better airflow / ventilation
Lighter construction
Still proper abrasion protection
Removable liners stored away
Winter Gear
Waterproof outer layer
Thermal liner
Wind protection
Less ventilation
If you’re riding in all seasons, having two purpose-built setups is often more comfortable and safer than trying to make one set do everything.
☀ Fair-Weather Rider
If you only ride in good conditions — sunny weekends, occasional training sessions — you can absolutely run one quality set.
In this case, look for:
Removable thermal liner
Removable waterproof liner (if included)
Good ventilation zips
Upgradeable armour pockets
Most modern motorcycle gear is modular.
That means:
Liners can be removed or replaced
Armour can be upgraded
Back protectors can be added later
Some jackets accept chest protectors
One well-chosen jacket and pants combo can cover a wide range of riding if it’s properly designed.
Modular Gear = Smart Long-Term Investment
This is something we strongly encourage at Passmasters.
Instead of buying “cheap now, replace later,” look for:
✔ Proper abrasion material (leather preferred if possible) ✔ CE armour pockets ✔ Removable liners ✔ Room for armour upgrades
You can start with standard inserts and later upgrade to:
Level 2 armour
Better back protectors
Chest protection
Even airbag systems
This approach spreads cost over time without compromising long-term safety.
Practical Buying Strategy for New Riders
If budget is tight, here’s a sensible order:
Good full-face helmet
Proper jacket (upgradeable armour)
Gloves
Boots
Riding pants
Armour upgrades over time
Don’t try to buy everything “top spec” on day one.
Buy solid foundations — then improve the protection as you grow into riding.
Final Passmasters Advice
If you ride often and in all weather — consider seasonal gear.
If you ride occasionally — choose one modular, upgradeable set.
Leather still offers the best abrasion resistance.
Level 2 armour offers better impact protection.
Most gear today is modular — use that to your advantage.
The best gear is the gear you will actually wear every ride.
If you’re new to riding and want to learn how to look after your bike properly, you’re not alone.
Motorcycle maintenance workshops are available in several regions across New Zealand — but not all courses are created equal.
At Passmasters Rider Training, we run beginner-friendly motorcycle maintenance workshops designed specifically for everyday riders who want confidence, independence, and safer riding.
Here’s what you need to know.
Quick Answer
You can find beginner motorcycle maintenance workshops in NZ through:
Approved rider training providers
Community motorcycle groups
Private training schools
However, structured, safety-focused, beginner-specific workshops — like the ones we run at Passmasters — offer the most practical value.
Why Motorcycle Maintenance Matters for Beginners
As a new rider, understanding your bike isn’t optional — it’s part of being safe on the road.
Basic maintenance knowledge helps you:
✔ Spot problems early ✔ Avoid breakdowns ✔ Improve safety ✔ Save money ✔ Ride with confidence
We regularly see riders who don’t know how to check chain tension, tyre pressure, or brake wear. These are fundamental safety checks.
That’s exactly why we built our maintenance workshops.
What Makes Passmasters Maintenance Workshops Different?
At Passmasters, our maintenance courses are:
Beginner-focused
Hands-on
Safety-driven
Clear and practical
Taught by experienced instructors
We don’t just talk at you — we show you, then you do it yourself.
What You’ll Learn in a Passmasters Maintenance Workshop
Our beginner workshops cover:
🔧 Pre-Ride Safety Checks
Tyres and pressures
Chain condition and adjustment
Oil level checks
Brake inspection
Controls and cables
🔧 Basic Servicing Knowledge
Chain cleaning and lubrication
Battery basics
Coolant checks
Fastener inspection
🔧 Understanding Your Motorcycle
What sounds normal (and what doesn’t)
When to see a mechanic
How to read wear indicators
Maintenance intervals
We focus on practical skills you’ll actually use — not deep mechanical rebuilds.
Who Are These Workshops For?
Our maintenance workshops are ideal for:
New learners
Restricted riders
Riders who’ve never worked on a bike before
Anyone lacking confidence around mechanical basics
If you’re currently on your motorcycle restricted licence and wondering how to get your full licence — here’s exactly how it works in New Zealand.
At Passmasters Rider Training, we help riders move from Restricted to Full every week. The process is straightforward once you understand your options.
Quick Answer: What Are the Requirements?
To progress from a restricted to a full motorcycle licence in NZ, you must:
Option 1 – CBTA Pathway
Hold your restricted licence for at least 9 months
Complete a CBTA 6F assessment
Then wait until you’ve held your restricted for 12 months total
Be at least 17.5 years old
Apply for your full licence
Option 2 – Practical Test Route (No CBTA)
Hold your restricted licence for 18 months
Be at least 18 years old
Sit and pass the full licence practical test
Now let’s break down what that actually means.
What Is CBTA 6F?
CBTA stands for Competency-Based Training and Assessment.
The 6F assessment is:
An on-road riding assessment
Conducted by an NZTA-approved assessor
Focused on real-world riding skills
Less stressful than a formal testing environment
At Passmasters, we offer CBTA 6F assessments as an approved provider.
Why Most Riders Choose CBTA
The biggest advantage?
You can reduce your restricted period from 18 months to 12 months.
That’s 6 months earlier eligibility for your full licence.
CBTA is not about catching you out — it’s about demonstrating safe, competent riding in normal traffic conditions.
What Happens During a 6F Assessment?
You’ll be assessed on:
Road positioning
Hazard awareness
Speed management
Decision making
Observation and head checks
Safe gap selection
It’s about how you ride every day — not performing tricks in a carpark.
When Can You Sit Your 6F?
You must:
Hold your restricted for at least 9 months
Be confident riding in varied traffic environments
Once you pass 6F, you still need to wait until the 12-month mark before applying for your full licence.
What If You Don’t Do CBTA?
If you choose not to complete CBTA:
You must wait 18 months on your restricted
Then book and pass the full licence practical test at AA/VTNZ/VINZ
This test is more structured and exam-style compared to CBTA.
Age Requirements
To apply for your full licence, you must be:
17.5 years old if completing CBTA
18 years old if going via the standard practical test
Do You Need Your Own Motorcycle?
You can use your own bike — or hire one.
At Passmasters:
✔ We provide CBTA 6F assessments ✔ We offer refresher training before assessment ✔ We provide hire bikes if needed ✔ We coach riders to improve pass confidence
Common Questions
Is 6F Hard?
No — if you’re riding consistently and safely.
Most riders who fail do so due to:
Poor observation habits
Inconsistent head checks
Positioning errors
Hesitation at intersections
All of these are coachable.
Should I Do a Prep Session First?
We recommend it.
A short coaching ride before your 6F:
Identifies weak areas
Fixes habits quickly
Builds assessment confidence
Improves first-time pass rates
The Smart Progression Path
Here’s what we recommend:
✔ Hold restricted for 9 months ✔ Book a refresher ride ✔ Sit CBTA 6F ✔ Apply for full at 12 months
Simple. Structured. Efficient.
Why Upgrade to Full?
Moving to your full licence:
Removes restricted conditions
Removes night riding limitations
Removes pillion restrictions
Demonstrates full competency
May reduce insurance premiums
Final Checklist
✔ Held restricted 9+ months (for CBTA) ✔ Book CBTA 6F or practical test ✔ Meet minimum age ✔ Apply for full licence
Ready to Upgrade?
If you’re approaching your 9-month mark and want to progress smoothly, we can help.
Whether you need:
A confidence ride
A CBTA 6F assessment
Or a hire bike for the day
Passmasters will guide you through the final step to your full licence.
If you’re preparing for your Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST) in New Zealand, you’re in the right place.
At Passmasters Rider Training, we run BHST training and testing every week — and we see exactly why riders pass… and why they fail.
Here’s what you actually need to know to pass first time.
Quick Answer: How Do You Prepare for the BHST?
To prepare properly for your BHST, you should:
Understand the four stages of the test
Practise slow-speed clutch and throttle control
Master tight figure 8 turns
Learn correct emergency braking technique
Train with a certified instructor before sitting the test
The BHST isn’t about speed. It’s about control.
What Is the BHST?
The Basic Handling Skills Test is the first practical step toward getting your motorcycle learner licence in New Zealand.
It is:
Done in a controlled training area
Focused on low-speed control
Required before you can sit your learner theory test
You must pass the BHST before applying for your learner licence.
The 4 Stages of the BHST (What We Train You On)
At Passmasters, we coach riders through each stage so there are no surprises.
1️⃣ Basic Turn and Controlled Stop
You must:
Ride forward smoothly
Turn within a marked zone
Stop in control
Most common mistake? Grabbing the front brake.
We teach progressive braking from day one.
2️⃣ Figure 8 and Park
This is where most riders struggle.
You’ll need to:
Ride tight figure 8s
Maintain balance at walking pace
Park under control
The key skill here is clutch control and vision technique — not throttle.
We focus heavily on this in our prep sessions.
3️⃣ Linked Figure 8s
This tests:
Continuous balance
Smooth clutch use
Consistency
If your clutch control isn’t dialled in, this is where you’ll feel it.
4️⃣ Increased Speed & Emergency Stop
You’ll:
Accelerate to required speed
Perform a controlled emergency stop
Complete hazard avoidance
Emergency braking must be:
Progressive
Balanced
Controlled
We teach correct front and rear brake application so you don’t panic-brake on test day.
Why Riders Fail the BHST
After years of running these tests, the common reasons we see are:
❌ Poor clutch control ❌ Looking down instead of through the turn ❌ Panic braking
Most failures are not ability-related — they’re preparation-related.
Do You Need Training Before the BHST?
Technically, no.
Realistically? Sometimes.
Riders who do a proper prep session with us have significantly higher first-time pass rates than those who “just give it a go.”
Even a short coaching session can:
Correct bad habits
Improve clutch control instantly
Build confidence in tight turns
Remove guesswork about the test layout
Don’t Have a Bike? We’ve Got You Covered.
At Passmasters:
✔ We offer BHST training ✔ We conduct the BHST ✔ We provide hire motorcycles ✔ We supply helmets if needed ✔ We train in a controlled, safe environment
You don’t need to own a motorcycle to get started.
Our hire bikes are learner-friendly and ideal for low-speed skills training.
How Hard Is the BHST?
The BHST is technical — not difficult.
If you can:
Balance at low speed
Control the clutch smoothly
Apply brakes progressively
You can pass.
The key is learning the technique properly before test day.
Ready to Book?
If you’re preparing for your BHST and want to pass first time, we can help.
Getting your motorcycle learner licence in New Zealand begins with practical training—not the theory test. You must first pass a Basic Handling Skills Test, then apply through a driver licensing agent and pass the motorcycle learner theory test.
This guide explains the current process clearly and shows where Passmasters learner training fits in.
The learner-licence process at a glance
Be at least 16 years old.
Pass a Basic Handling Skills Test with an approved motorcycle instructor.
Apply at a driver licensing agent.
Complete the identity, eyesight, photo and application requirements.
Pass the motorcycle learner theory test.
Ride under learner conditions on a LAMS-approved motorcycle.
1
Be at least 16 years old
You must be at least 16 before you can apply for a New Zealand motorcycle learner licence. You do not need to already hold a car licence.
2
Pass the Basic Handling Skills Test
Before applying for the licence, you must pass a Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST) with an approved motorcycle instructor. The BHST is completed in a controlled training area rather than on public roads.
It assesses whether you can control a motorcycle safely through exercises involving:
Moving off and stopping smoothly
Turning and changing direction
Low-speed balance and clutch control
Braking and emergency-response exercises
Passing the BHST gives you the certificate needed for your learner-licence application. It does not allow you to ride on the road by itself.
No motorcycle yet? Passmasters learner sessions include a suitable training motorcycle. A helmet and gloves are also available, with helmets up to size 2XL.
3
Apply at a driver licensing agent
After passing the BHST, apply at a New Zealand driver licensing agent. NZTA’s current process requires you to:
Complete the application form
Provide acceptable evidence of identity
Meet the eyesight requirement
Have your photo and signature taken
Present your Basic Handling Skills certificate
Pay the current learner-licence application fee
Book and pass the learner theory test
Fees can change, so confirm the current amount directly with NZTA before applying.
4
Pass the motorcycle learner theory test
The current motorcycle learner theory test has 35 multiple-choice questions. You need at least 32 correct answers to pass.
The questions cover road rules and safe riding practices. Study the official New Zealand Road Code for Motorcyclists rather than relying only on informal online quizzes.
Once you pass, the licensing agent can issue a temporary learner licence while the photo licence is produced.
5
Follow the motorcycle learner conditions
Once licensed, you can practise on public roads—but you must follow the learner conditions.
Ride only a LAMS-approved motorcycle
Display an L plate at the rear
Do not ride between 10pm and 5am
Do not carry passengers
Do not tow another vehicle
Keep your licence current and ride legally
Always check the latest NZTA conditions, particularly before buying or modifying a motorcycle.
When can you progress to Restricted?
You must be at least 16½ to apply for a motorcycle Restricted licence.
You can use the CBTA 6R pathway when you are ready and meet the age requirement. The alternative practical-test pathway is available after holding the learner licence for at least six months.
Ride Forever coaching can help develop your road skills, but it does not replace the CBTA assessment or practical licence test.
Which Passmasters learner session should you choose?
1 hour: Experienced with clutch, gears and motorcycle controls.
1.5 hours: Rusty riders, limited geared-bike experience or scooter upgrades.
2 hours: Complete beginners who need the controls taught progressively.
Not sure? Contact the team with your previous riding experience.
Licensing requirements and fees may change. This guide is based on NZTA information reviewed in July 2026. Confirm current legal requirements directly with NZTA before applying.
If you’re starting your motorcycle licence in New Zealand, your journey begins with the Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST).
This is the very first practical step before you can sit your Learner Theory Test (6L) and officially begin riding on the road. At Passmasters, we help hundreds of riders complete their BHST every year — and this guide explains exactly what to expect, how it works, and how to prepare.
Where the BHST Fits in Your Licence Journey
The Basic Handling Skills Test is Step 1 of your motorcycle licence pathway in New Zealand. It’s the foundation that allows you to move forward toward:
Learner Licence (6L)
Restricted Licence (6R / CBTA)
Full Licence (6F / CBTA)
The BHST is not about becoming an expert rider. It confirms you meet the minimum standard of control and safety required to begin your motorcycle journey.
What Is the Basic Handling Skills Test?
The BHST is a standardised, NZTA-approved motorcycle skills test.
That means:
The format is the same everywhere in New Zealand
The assessment criteria are consistent nationwide
It usually takes 10–15 minutes to complete (including instructions from the trainer)
The test is conducted in a controlled environment (car park or training area) — not on public roads.
The 4 Stages of the BHST
The test is broken into four core skill components:
1️⃣ Accelerate, Turn and Stop
You’ll demonstrate controlled take-off, smooth cornering and accurate stopping.
What instructors look for:
Smooth clutch control
Head and eye position
Correct use of throttle
Controlled braking
2️⃣ Parking Manoeuvre
This tests low-speed balance and clutch control.
You’ll:
Ride slowly through a confined space
Demonstrate precise control without putting your foot down unnecessarily
3️⃣ Linking Figures of 8
This is the coordination test.
You’ll:
Perform tight figure-8 patterns
Link them together
Maintain balance and control at low speed
This stage proves you can manage steering input and throttle together.
4️⃣ Faster Ride (Above 20km/h) + Emergency Stop
The final stage increases speed slightly.
You’ll:
Ride above 20km/h
Perform a controlled emergency stop
Demonstrate correct braking technique
This assesses hazard response and braking control.
How Long Does It Take?
The actual BHST assessment is 10–15 minutes.
The total session time depends on your riding background.
1 Hour Session
Best for:
Recreational dirt bike riders
Confident riders with clutch experience
Structure:
Approx. 10 minutes per stage
Direct practice on the four test components
Minimal fundamentals required
1.5 Hour Session
Best for:
Riders with limited clutch experience
Some riding background but need refinement
Structure:
First 30 minutes: drills to learn the motorcycle
Then stage-by-stage practice
Skill development before testing
2 Hour Session
Best for:
Complete beginners
Never ridden a manual motorcycle before
Structure:
Clutch control
Starting and stopping
Fundamental riding skills
Then introduction to BHST stages
We build the foundations first before progressing to test practice.
What Bike Is Used?
Most BHST training at Passmasters is completed on the:
Suzuki GSX150
150cc
Single cylinder
4-stroke
5-speed manual gearbox
Clutch operated
It’s lightweight, predictable, and ideal for new riders learning clutch control.
What to Expect on the Day
Friendly instructor guidance
Clear explanation of each stage
Demonstration before you attempt it
Multiple practice runs before assessment (depending on session length)
Calm, supportive environment
Even if it’s wet, the course usually goes ahead. We only postpone if conditions become unsafe (for example, torrential rain affecting visibility or hearing).
What to Bring
We provide:
Helmets (M, L, XL)
Gloves (M, L, XL)
You must bring:
Long sleeves
Long pants (no skin showing)
Enclosed footwear
Comfortable clothing you can move in
Dress for the weather — especially in winter.
Is the BHST Hard?
For experienced riders, it’s straightforward.
For beginners, it’s a learning process — and that’s exactly what training time is for.
Remember:
Passing the BHST does not mean you’re a master rider. It means you meet the minimum standard to start riding on the road.
The real learning begins once you’re licensed.
ACC Ride Forever Subsidy
Great news — ACC helps pay for rider training in New Zealand through the Ride Forever Scheme.
You only pay:
$20 admin fee (most courses)
Or $50 depending on category
This makes professional training extremely affordable.
If you’re eligible, we highly recommend using this subsidy for further training after your BHST.
Why the BHST Matters
The Basic Handling Skills Test is the foundation of:
Safe clutch control
Slow-speed balance
Controlled braking
Hazard response basics
It sets you up properly before you enter real traffic environments.
At Passmasters, we focus on building riders — not just passing tests.
Ready to Start?
If you’re looking to complete your Basic Handling Skills Test (BHST) in New Zealand, book with Passmasters and start your motorcycle journey the right way.
