Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS): Your Path to Riding Freedom

The Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme (LAMS) was introduced to ensure that beginner riders across Australia can gain experience on learner approved motorcycles suited to their skill level. The scheme allows riders with a learner or provisional licence to operate motorcycles with restricted engine capacities and power-to-weight ratios, ensuring safety while providing an enjoyable riding experience.

Kawasaki offers a wide range of LAMS motorcycles, designed to give new riders confidence without compromising on performance, style, or reliability. Whether you're commuting through city streets, exploring scenic routes, or looking for an introduction to adventure riding, Kawasaki has a LAMS motorcycle to meet your needs.

Best Learner Approved Motorcycles:

• Ninja 500: One of the best motorcycles for learners that combines performance with user-friendly handling, making it an excellent choice for learners.
• Ninja 650(LAMS): This LAMS motorcycle offers a balance of power and agility, featuring a 649cc engine tailored for those starting their motorcycling journey.
• Z650(LAMS): A learner approved naked bike that provides a comfortable riding position and responsive performance, ideal for everyday use.
• Versys-X 300: An adventure-touring learner approved motorcycle designed for versatility, suitable for both urban commutes and light off-road adventures.
• Vulcan S: A cruiser that combines style with comfort, featuring adjustable ergonomics to accommodate various riders.
• Eliminator 500: A street cruiser that offers a relaxed riding experience with a low seat height, enhancing rider confidence.

For a comprehensive list of Kawasaki's LAMS motorcycles, please see below.

Understanding LAMS Eligibility:

LAMS specifies that learner and provisional riders can operate motorcycles that meet specific criteria regarding engine capacity and power-to-weight ratio. It's essential to consult the official guidelines to ensure compliance with the current regulations. Each state and territory in Australia has unique regulations governing the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme. Below is a breakdown of LAMS requirements by jurisdiction:

State and Territory-Specific LAMS Regulations in Australia

New South Wales (NSW)

• Have an engine capacity not exceeding 660cc.
• Have a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 150 kilowatts per tonne.
• Appear on the Roads and Maritime Services (RMS) approved LAMS list.
• Learner and provisional riders must also display L-plates or P-plates while riding.

Victoria (VIC)

• Be listed on the VicRoads Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme database.
• Meet the same engine capacity and power-to-weight restrictions as other states.
• Victoria also requires LAMS riders to complete a motorcycle learner permit assessment and follow restrictions on pillion passengers.

Queensland (QLD)

• Comply with a maximum engine capacity of 660cc.
• Adhere to a power-to-weight ratio of 150 kilowatts per tonne.
• Learner riders must pass the Q-Ride or Q-SAFE practical test to obtain a restricted motorcycle licence.

Western Australia (WA)

• A maximum engine capacity of 660cc.
• A power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 150 kilowatts per tonne.
• Learner riders must complete the Motorcycle Graduated Training and Licensing (GDT&L) process, which includes practical tests and assessments.

South Australia (SA)

• Meet the 660cc engine capacity and 150kW/tonne power-to-weight ratio limit.
• Be listed on the official LAMS motorcycle register.
• South Australia has specific laws about riding with L-plates and mandatory protective gear for learner riders.

Tasmania (TAS)

• A maximum engine capacity of 660cc.
• A power-to-weight ratio limit of 150 kilowatts per tonne.
• Learner riders must complete the state’s Motorcycle Rider Training Course as part of the licensing process.

Northern Territory (NT)

• A maximum engine capacity of 660cc.
• A power-to-weight ratio limit of 150 kilowatts per tonne.
• Riders must complete a mandatory motorcycle knowledge and practical test to qualify for a learner permit.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

• Choose motorcycles that comply with the 660cc engine capacity and power-to-weight ratio guidelines.
• Display L-plates or P-plates as required.
• The ACT also requires riders to complete a pre-learner rider training course before obtaining a learner licence.

Explore LAMS-Approved Kawasaki Models

Kawasaki offers an extensive selection of motorbikes for learners to suit a wide range of riding preferences. Popular models include the Ninja 500, Ninja 650(LAMS), Z650(LAMS), Versys-X 300, and Vulcan S, each designed to deliver the perfect blend of safety, performance, and style for new riders.

For a complete list of LAMS-approved Kawasaki motorcycles, see below.