Beginners Bikes - LAMS Guide
Road traffic authorities have in place a system for first time motorcycle riders, which basically limits riders to moderately powered motorcycles.
The Learner Approved Motor-cycles Scheme (LAMS) is now in place in most States and while there are some minor variations, participating States have agreed to promote and implement this national scheme.
Prior to this, States have had varying requirements of beginner riders, with NSW for instance, ditching the 250cc engine capacity for novice rides back in 2002, replacing it with the LAMS Scheme.
Since then the LAMS Scheme has been adopted by Tasmania (July 2007),Victoria (July 2008), and Queensland (July 2009).
Western Australia is expected to join the LAMS scheme later this year, while the Northern Territory's participation has yet to be confirmed.
The good news is that there are currently hundreds of bikes that meet LAMS approval, with more being added to the list.
You will find details specific to your State on your local Roads Authority website, eg. Vicroads, RTA, Dept of Infrastructure, etc.
What is LAMS?
The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme is an initiative that identifies motorcycles that are considered suitable for motorcycle learners and for all riders in their first year after progressing from a motorcycle learner licence. It is aimed at improving the safety of motorcycle riders. LAMS motorcycles have a maximum power to weight ratio of 150kW per tonne combined with a maximum engine capacity of 660cc.
The power to weight ratio of a motorcycle is a measure of performance that refers to the ratio of the power output of the motor-cycle compared to its weight. It is perceived by the LAMS scheme to be a better indicator of motorcycle performance than engine capacity alone.
Currently, Victoria, NSW, South Australia, Queensland, ACT and Tasmania have 150 kW per tonne restrictions, combined with a maximum engine capacity of 660cc.
Why has LAMS been introduced?
LAMS provides learner and novice riders with access to a greater variety of motorcycles that are appropriate for their level of experience and more suitable to riders of all sizes.
The expanded range includes bikes with better handling characteristics and some advanced safety features like ABS and combine braking systems.
The introduction of LAMS has restricted access to high risk race replica 250cc motorcycles that have acceleration characteristics unsuitable for inexperienced riders. These motorcycles have been identified in research as being over represented in motorcycle crashes.
The introduction of LAMS has also provided a more consistent approach to vehicle restrictions for learner and newly licenced riders across the country.
What's available?
From BSAs to Velocettes for the classically inclined, a swag of dirt & dual purpose bikes, even a Harley- Davidson is LAMS approved. The list also includes some rarities that you're unlikely to encounter here, and realistically aren't the best bikes to be doing your early riding on.
Speaking of Harley, the nearest thing to a modern LAMS Harley is the attractive Hunter Spyder.
In terms of rideability, reliability and spares/service support, first timers are best sticking to the volume models from the big four Japanese brands, BMW singles, or some of the steadily improving Chinese brands.
Riders have a great variety from which to choose. Whatever your favourite brand, there is probably a bike to suit.
The list is subject to regular updates, so check carefully with your State road authority before making any purchase.
LAMS approved motorcycles by brand
Note there are some variations between Statesand new models are being added/deleted regularly, so please check with your local Roads Authority for the latest LAMS list before purchasing.
0-260cc category - all 0 - 260cc models are suitable EXCEPT the following
Make Model cc
Aprilia RS250 250
Honda NSR250 250
KawasakiKR1 250
KR1S 250
SuzukiRGV250 250
YamahaTZR250 250
261-660cc category - the following makes and models are suitable
AJS Model 18
Model 30
Aprilia Moto 6.5 649
Pegaso 650 652
Scarabeo 400 399
Scarabeo 460
Strada 650 659
ATK 605 Dual Sports
605 Cross Country
BMWF650 Funduro 652
F650CS
F650GS (under 661 mL versions only)
G450X
R50
R50S
R60 590
R65 650
R65LS
R69 600
R69S
G450X 450
Bug Xciting
BSA B50SS Gold Star
B34 500 Gold Star
Gold Star
A10 650 Golden Flash
A10 Super Rocket
A65L 650 Lightning
A65SS 650 Spitfire
A65T 650 Thunderbolt
Cagiva 410TE
500 Canyon 498
600 Canyon
600 River 601
TE450
W16 Dual Sport 600 601
Derbi Mulhacen 659
Dneiper 650
MT9
Ducati 350 350
400SS Junior 398
DM450 450
DM500 499
500SL 499
600SL 583
600SS 583
600 Pantah 583
600M Monster 583
261-660cc category
Make Model CC
Ducati 620 Sport Lite 618
620 Multistrada Lite 618
Monster 398
Enfield/Royal Enfield Bullet Deluxe 500
Bullet Electra 500
Bullet 350 350
Bullet 500 500
Bullet Classic 500
Lightning 500 500
Gas Gas EC300
FSE400 398
FSE450 398
Gilera Nexus 500 460
Fuoco 493
Harley-Davidson SS350 350
Honda BROS 400
