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:
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Understand the four stages of the test
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Practise slow-speed clutch and throttle control
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Master tight figure 8 turns
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Learn correct emergency braking technique
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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:
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Done in a controlled training area
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Focused on low-speed control
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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:
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Ride forward smoothly
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Turn within a marked zone
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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:
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Ride tight figure 8s
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Maintain balance at walking pace
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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:
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Continuous balance
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Smooth clutch use
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Consistency
If your clutch control isn’t dialled in, this is where you’ll feel it.
4️⃣ Increased Speed & Emergency Stop
You’ll:
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Accelerate to required speed
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Perform a controlled emergency stop
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Complete hazard avoidance
Emergency braking must be:
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Progressive
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Balanced
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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:
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Correct bad habits
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Improve clutch control instantly
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Build confidence in tight turns
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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:
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Balance at low speed
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Control the clutch smoothly
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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.
Whether you need:
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A prep session
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A hire bike
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Or the full BHST test
We’ll guide you through it step by step.