For new riders in Australia and New Zealand, choosing the right motorcycle is crucial. The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) was introduced to ensure beginner riders have access to motorcycles that balance safety, power, and control. But what does it actually mean for a bike to be LAMS-approved? This guide explains the scheme, its criteria, and what to consider when choosing a LAMS motorcycle.
What Is the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS)?
The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) is a government regulation that restricts new riders to motorcycles that meet specific power and weight criteria. This scheme was introduced to reduce the risks associated with high-powered motorcycles, giving learners time to develop their skills before progressing to larger, unrestricted bikes.
LAMS is enforced across Australia and New Zealand, with each state and territory maintaining an official list of approved motorcycles. The scheme applies to riders on Learner (L), Provisional (P1 & P2), and Restricted licences.
LAMS-Approved Criteria: How Are Bikes Classified?
For a motorcycle to be LAMS-approved, it must meet strict guidelines, including:
- Engine capacity: Must be 660cc or less.
- Power-to-weight ratio: Must not exceed 150kW per tonne.
- No de-restrictions allowed: LAMS motorcycles cannot be modified to exceed their factory-approved limits.
- Restricted vs. unrestricted models: Some higher-capacity motorcycles (e.g., Kawasaki Ninja 650L) have LAMS versions that comply with the scheme.
Motorcycles that exceed these limits, or that have been modified to increase performance, are not LAMS-approved and cannot be ridden by learners.
Who Can Ride a LAMS-Approved Bike?
The LAMS scheme applies to different types of riders depending on their licence stage:
- Learner riders (L-Plates): Must ride a LAMS-approved motorcycle at all times.
- Provisional riders (P1 & P2): Still required to use LAMS motorcycles.
- Full licence riders: No longer restricted to LAMS bikes, though some still choose them for commuting and fuel efficiency.
If you’re searching for the best LAMS approved bike, there are plenty of options that offer a balance of performance and learner-friendly handling.
Benefits of LAMS-Approved Bikes
LAMS motorcycles are specifically designed to help new riders develop confidence and control. Some key benefits include:
- Safer and easier to handle – Ideal for beginners learning throttle control, braking, and balance.
- Diverse options – Available in sports, naked, cruiser, and adventure styles.
- More affordable – Lower cost of entry compared to high-performance motorcycles.
- Lower insurance premiums – LAMS bikes are cheaper to insure due to their reduced power output.
- Strong resale value – High demand from new riders ensures good resale potential.
Popular LAMS-Approved Motorcycles
There are several great LAMS-approved motorcycles catering to different riding styles:
Best LAMS Sportbikes:
- Yamaha YZF-R3 – A lightweight, agile sportbike with excellent handling.
- Kawasaki Ninja 400 – A powerful yet manageable bike with a sporty look.
Best LAMS Naked Bikes:
- KTM 390 Duke – A high-performance naked bike with sharp handling.
- Yamaha MT-03 – Great for urban commuting with a comfortable upright position.
Best LAMS Cruiser Bikes:
- Honda Rebel 500 – A stylish, easy-to-ride cruiser.
- Kawasaki Vulcan S LAMS – A relaxed ride with adjustable ergonomics.
Best LAMS Adventure Bikes:
- Royal Enfield Himalayan – A capable and affordable adventure bike.
- Kawasaki Versys-X 300 – A lightweight touring motorcycle.
How to Check if a Motorcycle is LAMS-Approved
Before purchasing a motorcycle, it’s essential to verify its LAMS status. Here’s how you can check:
- Visit official transport authority websites – Each Australian state and New Zealand have up-to-date LAMS-approved lists.
- Look for manufacturer-specified LAMS models – Some brands produce both LAMS and non-LAMS versions of the same bike.
- Check compliance plates or ask a dealer – LAMS motorcycles often have a compliance plate stating their status.
Common Myths About LAMS Bikes
There are several misconceptions about LAMS motorcycles, including:
- “All 650cc bikes are LAMS-approved.”
- Not true—only models that meet the power-to-weight ratio restrictions qualify.
- “LAMS bikes are too slow.”
- While not as powerful as unrestricted motorcycles, many LAMS bikes offer plenty of speed for city and highway riding.
- “You can de-restrict a LAMS bike later.”
- Illegal in most cases—removing restrictions can void insurance and make the bike non-compliant.
Now What
The LAMS scheme ensures that beginner riders have access to motorcycles that offer a safe, controlled, and enjoyable riding experience. Whether you’re looking for a sportbike, cruiser, or adventure bike, there are plenty of LAMS-approved options available.
Before buying, check your state’s official LAMS list and consider test-riding different models to find one that suits your riding style and needs.
