What is a LAMS Motorcycle?

March 21, 2023

What is LAMS?

LAMS or 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. LAMS gives you access to a range of motorcycles and scooters that are appropriate to your level of experience.

LAMS aims to improve the safety of motorcycle riders by having a maximum power to weight ratio of 150 kilowatts per tonne combined with a maximum engine capacity of 660 cubic centimetres. What does power to weight ratio mean? The power to weight ratio of a motorcycle is a measure of performance that refers to the ratio of the power output of the motorcycle compared to its weight. It indicates the motorcycle’s performance aside from the engine capacity and is a better indicator too.

Whilst motorcycle engine capacity provides an indication of the size and power of a motorcycle, power to weight ratio can give a better measure of a motorcycle’s potential performance like its speed and acceleration capability.

High-powered motorcycles present a safety risk to learners and inexperienced motorcycle riders. Learners and inexperienced motorcycle riders need to ride less powerful motorcycles until they gain sufficient skills and experience to handle more powerful bikes. But with the LAMS, motorcycle riders have wider bike options that would fit their skills and other factors. For example, taller or bigger riders might be in the dangerous position of being forced onto physically small machines that weren’t a good fit for them just because the law restricts them from using higher-powered engines.

What’s the best motorcycle gear for beginners?

The government website has a list of LAMS motorcycles stating which bikes are “approved” in this range. In the 0–250mL category, all models, up to 250mL, including mopeds, are eligible for use on an RE licence and are included in the LAM Scheme. All other bikes less than 251cc are allowed to be ridden by learner and restricted licence holders, including scooters. Not sure if your motorcycle qualifies as an approved motorcycle? Take your motorcycle registration number to your nearest transport department to find out if your registered motorcycle will qualify as a LAM Scheme approved motorcycle.

5 Must Haves For Road Riding

Motorcycle gear are designed for maximum crash protection along with protection from rain, sun, wind, noise, debris and pavement. Motorcycle gear and apparels also provide more than just plain protection—they are also designed to fit your personal style and keep you comfortable throughout the ride.

Choosing the proper motorcycle gear to purchase with such a vast array of options can be overwhelming. That is why we’ve come up with a great list of essential motorcycle gear to purchase before going out on your motorcycle road trip. 

Motorcycle Helmet

This is arguably the most crucial piece of motorcycle equipment to wear whilst riding your motorcycle. The helmet should fit you snugly and should be comfortable to wear. While finding the perfect option for you specifically, it’s best to try helmets on in-person rather than purchasing online to make sure it fits perfectly. Here’s how to choose the right helmet for you.

Motorcycle Jacket

Riding jackets are available in different fabrics and styles. Premium motorcycle jacket fabrics like leather, canvas or denim are vital. Jackets are crucial in guarding your arms and body against road rash and keep you warm during cold weather. Motorcycle jackets are made with extra padding in critical areas like in the elbow and shoulder areas. 

Motorcycle Boots

High quality motorcycle boots are a vital piece of motorcycle riding gear for safe riding. Alway make sure you wear a pair of well-made, ankle-high boots which are made of solid materials like leather. Motorcycle boots help add support to the ankles for safer control and offer protection that can reduce the impact in the event that the body is contorted during a fall. Always make sure to test them out to ensure they fit properly before riding in them. 

Motocycle Gloves

Gloves shield your hands from road rash and help in maintaining a safe grip on your handlebars by protecting against sweaty, slippery hands which can cause danger while riding. Whilst there’s no law requiring the use of gloves when riding a motorbike, if you want to protect your body, your first defence is your hands. Wear the gloves and let them do the hard work! Look for a pair of riding gloves that offer protection from all kinds of elements whilst providing a good grip.

Motorcycle Pants

Motorcycle pants can protect you from the weather as well as protect you from impact and abrasion injuries after a crash. It is not advisable to wear normal pants whilst riding your motorcycle as your legs are not as protected in the event of a crash. But with motorcycle pants, your legs will be better protected from injury in this unfortunate situation.

Choose the best motorcycle gear for you today, browse through our wide selection of motorcycle gear from the best brands in the industry. AMA Warehouse stocks premium motorcycle gear and equipment in Australia. Looking for more motorcycle guide? Check out our Motorcycle Blog.