Before doing anything, figure out how much this new endavour will cost. Motorcycles themselves are relatively cheap -- the other costs often surprise new riders. Here's a roughed out list of expenses you'll face in your first year of riding:
- Motorcycle: $????
- Rider Training: $500
- Gear: Used $300-500, new $1500-2500
- Insurance: $2000-4500/year for the first 5 years. Not many riders under 30 years old pay less than $2000/year.
- Maintenance: $100/hour if you have to pay for it
- You must be at least 16 years old.
- Written Test: You’ll need to pass a written knowledge test. The test covers road signs, traffic laws, and basic motorcycle safety. You can study using the Ontario Motorcycle Handbook.
- Documentation: You'll need to provide proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport).
- Fees: There’s a fee for the M1 test, which is currently under $20.
- You are not allowed to ride on highways with a speed limit over 80 km/h.
- No passengers are allowed.
- No night riding (from 30 minutes after sunset to 30 minutes before sunrise).
Note: You may have trouble getting insurance in Ontario with just an M1, particularly if you are under 30 years old. 2. M2 (Intermediate Motorcycle License)After passing your M1 license, you have 2 options for getting your M2. for at least 60 days (or 30 days if you take a recognized motorcycle safety course), you can apply for your M2 license. You will need to do the following:
- MTO Motorcycle Road Test: This is a practical road test where you demonstrate your riding skills, including safe lane changes, stopping, and turning. It’s usually done as Service Ontario on a controlled, parking lot course. You must be have no less than 60 days experience with your M1 and your M1 must not be expired. The M2 road test costs around $30
- Approved M2 Exit motorcycle safety course. You can take this course once you pass your M1, you do not need to wait. Most new riders choose this route to get started because it makes insurance cheaper and the course provides hands-on training. Once you complete the courser, the trainer will administer the M2 test. If you pass, you can go to the Service Ontario with your paperwork and register your M2 licence 30 days after your M1 came into effect. An M2 Exit Course is between $350 and $500 depending on the provider.
Note: You must follow M1 rules until you get the M2 endorsement on your licence.
- You can ride at night and on highways.
- You can have passengers.
- The blood alcohol limit is 0.00% for riders with an M2 license (for any alcohol-related offenses, you risk having your license revoked).
- Road Test: You’ll need to pass another road test to demonstrate advanced motorcycle skills and safe riding practices. The M test is more advanced and typically involves more challenging maneuvers and will be done on local roads, highways and freeways if available.
- Fees: The M road test fee is similar to the M2 test fee, around $30.
- M License Privileges: Once you pass the test and receive your M license, you’ll have no restrictions on your motorcycle riding. You can ride any type of bike, carry passengers, ride at night, and your blood alcohol content is the the provincial standard.
- Motorcycle Safety Courses: Taking a motorcycle safety course, like the M1 to M2 Course or M2 to M Course, can improve your skills and help you pass your road tests with more confidence. These courses are often offered by organizations across Ontario and can help reduce the time you need to wait to upgrade your license.
- Practice: Riding is a skill, so practice as much as you can in safe environments. Riding in parking lots, quiet roads, or other low-traffic areas can build your confidence and ability.
- Insurance: Don’t forget about motorcycle insurance. In Ontario, it's mandatory, and the costs will depend on factors like the type of bike, your experience, and the area you live in.
- M1 License: Pass the written knowledge test (learner's permit, with restrictions).
- M2 License: Pass the road test or complete a safety course (more riding privileges, but still some restrictions).
- M (Full) License: After holding the M2 for 22 months (or 18 months with a safety course), pass the M road test and enjoy full privileges.
