Motorcycles with A licence: the 9 must-have models for 2026 from 7999 euros

Making the leap to superior mechanical power requires patience and seriousness. Many motorcycle enthusiasts wait for this precise moment to finally ride their dream machine without any technical restrictions.

The mandatory A2 category

French regulations impose a crucial step before accessing the biggest production engines. From now on, all new motorcyclists must take the A2 license for two full years of regular riding. Thisapprenticeship period enables the rider to acquire the right reflexes on lighter, more restricted machines. Road safety remains the authorities’ top priority during this progressive training process.

However, the desire to switch to a full A license is becoming increasingly pressing for everyday riders. This administrative change authorizes the riding of all motorcycles, with no limit on cubic capacity or real power. Manufacturers offer fascinating models that require this specific validation to ride legally. Consequently, the anticipation of this short training course motivates a huge number of candidates every new season.

Validation does not require retaking the full Highway Code or Plateau test. However, the driver must take a seven-hour theoretical and practical training course at an approved driving school. This one-off session is divided between theory and practical exercises on the track or in real traffic. In this way, the instructor validates skills without inflicting undue stress on the already experienced student.

Detailed content of the bridging course

The theoretical part lasts around two hours at the chosen driving school. Instructors focus mainly on the risks associated with high speeds and the sometimes precarious grip of asphalt. They also give invaluable advice on regular vehicle maintenance to ensure maximum longevity.

“The transition to full power requires technical maturity more than just a desire for pure speed.”

The practical phase takes up the rest of the training day, on a specially adapted platform. Students handle heavier machines to test their natural balance in a variety of conditions. Low-speed maneuvering exercises boost the confidence of future holders of the higher category. In addition, group driving enables them to observe the behaviors they need to avoid to stay safe.

Budget and administrative procedures

The price of this essential gateway often varies from region to region and from driving school to driving school. In general, prices range from 250 to 400 euros for a full day’s training. This amount includes administrative fees and specific insurance for on-road practice. Bikers must provide their own approved protective equipment to take part in the session.

• A mandatory seven hours of practical training at a driving school.
• A minimum of two years after obtaining your A2 license.
• Complete with CE-certified helmet and gloves.
• An end-of-course certificate without stressful final exams.
• Update your driving licence via the ANTS website.

After these seven hours, the driving school issues the driver with an official provisional attestation. This document enables the driver to drive immediately, until he or she receives the definitive driver card. However, the prefecture sometimes processes the secure document production file rather slowly, depending on the period. You should therefore keep a digital copy of your attestation on your personal smartphone.

Insurers often ask for this official proof to modify the current protection contract. An increase in the annual premium may occur, depending on the new large-displacement model chosen. Powerful motorcycles entail higher financial risks in the event of an at-fault claim or theft. Despite this, the pleasure of riding a motorcycle without a clamp more than compensates for these minor administrative and financial constraints.

The selection of the first big cube often marks a memorable stage in life for the enthusiast. It’s all about finding the perfect balance between visual style, saddle comfort and raw performance. Dealership test rides are therefore the perfect opportunity to compare real-life riding sensations. For example, a massive tourer doesn’t offer the same riding position as a nervous sports roadster.

Choose your first machine without restriction

Buying second-hand is a smart option for slightly tighter budgets. You’ll find used bikes in excellent condition with very few kilometers on the odometer. Nevertheless, you need to remain vigilant when visually inspecting the frame and engine block. What’s more, a full service history guarantees the peace of mind you need for future rides.

Checking the tires and braking system remains a priority during the transaction. Excessively worn parts often indicate that the previous owner drove the car a little too hard. Test the vehicle over a few kilometers to detect any suspicious noises or abnormal vibrations. An up-to-date maintenance logbook will always enhance the future resale value of your acquisition.

Safety at the heart of the new experience

Passive safety requires modern equipment perfectly adapted to your body shape. Full-face helmets offer the best possible facial protection in the event of a sudden fall onto the road. Certified gloves are becoming mandatory to avoid serious hand injuries in the event of a slip. Jackets with protective shells reinforce the most fragile joints, such as the elbows.

Recent technologies such as the wireless airbag save many drivers’ lives every year. This investment may seem costly at first, but its effectiveness has been proven by accident experts. Motorcycle manufacturers are now integrating sophisticated electronic aids to stabilize cornering. ABS and traction control now limit the riding errors that are common among novices.

The community of two-wheeled motorists is often exemplary in its solidarity on French roads. The biker salute bears witness to this fraternity that unites riders of all ages. However, caution must always be the watchword on Sunday group outings. Motorcycles require constant concentration to anticipate the possible mistakes of other road users.

Finally, access to category A opens the doors to far-flung and truly epic journeys. Crossing mountain passes or coastal roads becomes an accessible adventure with the right machine. Every sharp bend offers a new perspective on the splendid landscape that unfolds before your eyes. In this way, motorcycles transform simple daily journeys into truly unique sensory experiences.

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