Finding the right bike when you’re just starting out as a rider in New South Wales can be confusing. One of the things that often stumps new riders is understanding what bikes are allowed under the Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme, also known as LAMS. This system is designed to make sure beginners have access to bikes that are reasonable in power and not too tricky to handle. But there’s more to it than just picking a bike off the list. Power-to-weight ratio is one of the key measures that affects both your riding experience and how suitable a bike really is while you’re on your learner’s licence.
Most people shopping for a LAMS approved bike focus on looks, price or brand at first. That’s fair enough, but skipping over technical stuff like power-to-weight ratio usually leads to a bike that’s either too sluggish for your needs or too much to handle. If you’re serious about building good habits from the start and staying safe out there, it helps to understand how this ratio plays into your decision. Let’s break it down into something simple and useful so you’re not flying blind when it’s time to choose.
Understanding Power-To-Weight Ratios
So, what is a power-to-weight ratio? It’s a way of comparing how much power a bike’s engine puts out against how much the whole thing weighs. It’s usually measured in kilowatts per tonne. It helps show how much “go” the machine has when it’s moving your weight and the bike’s own bulk. A high ratio means the bike is quicker, while a low one means it takes more time to get moving and feels a bit more forgiving. For new riders in NSW, this number is pretty important when looking at LAMS approved bikes.
Why’s it so important? Well, beginner riders are still learning things like balance, throttle control and braking smoothly. A bike that’s too light or too powerful for a learner can lead to sharp movements, unwanted speed or wobbly moments when turning or stopping. A bike with the right power-to-weight ratio makes these early lessons feel smoother and more predictable. This gives you space to build trust in your skills without being caught off guard.
Here’s a simple way to work out a bike’s power-to-weight ratio:
– Take the bike’s power (kilowatts)
– Divide it by the bike’s weight including fuel and fluids (kilograms)
– Multiply the result by 1000
For example, if a bike puts out 25kW and weighs 180kg, the ratio would be:
(25 ÷ 180) × 1000 = 138.8 kW per tonne
The NSW LAMS list only includes bikes that meet a certain ratio limit, so anything you look at on the approved list already follows the legal rules. But it’s still worth comparing a few options because not all of them feel the same. A slightly lighter bike with slightly less power might feel more responsive than a heavier one with the same output.
Understanding this gives you a better feel for what the bike might be like once you’re on the road. This way, you’re not just ticking a box but actually picking something that fits your comfort level, size and riding confidence. Some people prefer a bike that’s a bit heavier so it feels more stable, while others like something nimble that’s easy to move around. Power-to-weight ratio helps you land somewhere in the middle that suits how you want to ride.
Top LAMS Approved Bikes In NSW With Ideal Ratios
When you’re comparing LAMS approved bikes in NSW, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by features and specs. But if you’re focused on power-to-weight ratio, a few bikes stand out for keeping things both learner-friendly and well-balanced.
Here are some that tick the right boxes:
1. Kawasaki Z400
A straight-up favourite with beginners due to its lightweight frame and smooth handling. It’s got enough punch to feel responsive but stays well within LAMS rules, making it a good option if you’re after something that doesn’t feel sluggish.
2. Yamaha MT-03
This one’s perfect if you value a nimble ride. It’s compact, has a comfortable upright riding position and handles corners smoothly, making city commutes and weekend cruises both enjoyable and manageable.
3. Honda CB500F
A bit heavier, but with more presence. Great pick for someone who may keep riding the same bike for years. It’s still LAMS approved and delivers a steady feel. If you’re on the taller side or planning to build skills for long trips, this one’s worth a look.
4. Suzuki SV650 Learner Approved Version (LAMS)
Even though it’s got a bigger engine than others listed here, the restricted LAMS version manages its power carefully. This one suits learners who plan to progress quickly and want to get used to something a bit closer to full-sized motorcycles.
These bikes all keep their power-to-weight ratio within the legal limit in NSW. They’re popular for a reason. They balance ease of use with enough room for growth as your skills improve. The physical feel of each one varies, so if possible, try to sit on a few and see how they feel in person. What looks great on paper can feel completely different when you’re at the handlebars.
Tips For Choosing The Right LAMS Approved Bike
Picking a bike off the approved list doesn’t mean it’s the right one for you. It’s worth taking the time to find something that feels like a proper match. Here are a few handy things to keep in mind while you’re narrowing down your search:
– Weight and height: A lighter bike can be easier to control, but also feel twitchier. Heavier bikes tend to hold their line better, especially in wind. Also, make sure you can put both feet flat on the ground when seated. That gives you more confidence when stopping.
– Engine response: All LAMS bikes meet a cap, but some respond more suddenly than others. Smooth throttle response is your friend while learning. If it revs up too quickly with a slight twist, that could catch you out in traffic or on hills.
– Riding posture: Upright bikes usually offer better visibility and control, especially in traffic. Sports-styled bikes might look sleek, but leaning forward puts more weight on your wrists and changes your control grip. That can make slower-speed riding harder to manage.
– Long-term use: Are you happy upgrading in a year or would you prefer to keep the same bike for longer? Some learner bikes adapt better to open road riding than others, so think about how often and how far you’ll be riding.
– Availability of spare parts and servicing: While this isn’t about the riding itself, the cost and ease of keeping your bike in shape plays a big part over time.
Matching the specs to your build and riding goals makes a big difference. Even among LAMS approved bikes, the fit and feel vary a lot. If you’re not sure what works, visiting a few dealers and trying them out can help you narrow your options.
Practising Safe Riding On Your New LAMS Bike
Even with the right bike, the way you ride it matters just as much. Getting comfortable on your LAMS bike is about more than just knowing the road rules. It’s about building instinct over time.
Safe practice means putting yourself in different riding scenarios and learning how your bike responds:
– Start in quieter areas before mixing with heavy traffic
– Practise slow-speed turns and emergency stops regularly
– Ride at dawn, dusk and in the rain so you learn how grip and visibility change
– Get used to looking ahead and spotting hazards early
– Use both brakes smoothly, not just the rear
A lot of new riders make the mistake of sticking to the same type of riding day in, day out. That builds comfort, sure. But stretching yourself gradually in new settings brings the real gains. The key is to step up your riding experiences before the road does it for you.
You don’t need to push limits to improve. Steady, deliberate practice is where confidence grows. The more familiar you are with how your bike feels at different speeds and surfaces, the less rattled you’ll be when something unexpected pops up.
Find the Perfect LAMS Bike with Confidence
Getting your LAMS approved bike sorted isn’t just about ticking off racing stripes or spec sheets. When you pick the right balance between power and weight, and use that to build solid riding habits, you’re setting up a safer and more confident journey on two wheels.
NSW riders are lucky to have a solid framework in place through the LAMS program. Understanding how to read between the lines of that list and knowing what suits you makes a world of difference. Choosing well from the start leads to more than just passing your test. It gives you the kind of seat time that prepares you for years of riding ahead. Making those small informed choices now will shape your entire experience as a rider.
Choosing the right LAMS approved bike in NSW is a big move in your riding journey. Once you’ve found the right fit, build your skills and confidence on the road with guidance from Stay Upright. To get even more out of your time on two wheels, explore how our courses can support you as you grow comfortable with LAMS approved bikes in NSW and gain experience across different riding situations.
