LEARNER INFORMATION
WHAT IS THE LEARNER APPROVED MOTORCYCLE SCHEME (LAMS)?
LAMS identifies a range of motorcycles appropriate for learner and restricted class 6 licence holders, based on their level of experience. The scheme determines appropriate motorcycles based in the overall performance capability of the motorcycle.
See our Learner Approved page for a complete list of our Learner Approved Bikes.
LAMS Approved Motorcycles include:
- All motorcycles with engine capacities of 250cc and under, except for those on the LAMS-prohibited list (please refer to the NZTA website for the list).
- Fully electric powered motorcycles with a power-to-weight ratio of 150 kilowatts per tonne and under (this includes all fully electric powered motorcycles registered on New Zealand’s Motor Vehicle Register as of 1 June 2012).
- All motorcycles manufactured prior to 1960 with an engine capacity of 660cc and under.
- Motorcycles that feature on the approved NZTA list with engine capacities between 251cc and 660cc – these motorcycles must be in standard form as produced by the manufacturer. They cannot be modified in any way to increase the power-to-weight ratio.
CAN I CHANGE MY LAMS APPROVED MOTORCYCLE TO A FULL POWER MOTORCYCLE AT A LATER DATE?
Although it may be physically possible to modify a LAMS approved motorcycle to a higher power output of a Full Power motorcycle, learner or restricted licence holders are responsible for ensuring their motorcycle is LAMS-approved. Any motorcycle modified in a way that increases its power-to-weight ratio is not LAMS-approved, regardless of whether it appears on the LAMS-approved list.
LEARNER LICENSING
New Zealand Transport Authority (NZTA) is a good place to start for any information on licensing as provides the standard licensing requirements for New Zealand.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
ACC Ride Forever
Ride Forever is an ACC initiative aimed at improving motorcycle safety and skills.
There is a nationwide network of Ride Forever approved coaches who offer courses at subsidised rates from as little as $20. Some courses even fully funded.
Ultimately, it’s about giving you the knowledge you need so you can carry on riding – and enjoying it – way into the future. Hence the name: Ride Forever.
NZ TRANSPORT AGENCY
The NZTA website is a great resource to guide you through the process of getting your motorcycle licence.
Getting your motorcycle licence in New Zealand involves a three-step process. At each step, you gain a new licence with fewer requirements and more responsibilities. It’s an approach that helps you build the skills and experience to ride safely on our roads.
KAWASAKI LEARNER APPROVED MOTORCYCLES
See the extensive range of LAMS approved motorcycles available here.
From the Vulcan S LAMS cruiser to the adventure touring Versys 650 LAMS there is a learners approved Kawasaki motorcycle for you.
