LEARNER APPROVED MOTORCYCLES | LAMS
Learner Approved Motorcycles (LAMS): Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Started on Two Wheels in Australia
Thinking about getting your motorcycle licence and jumping into the world of two wheels? Whether you're based in Brisbane, Sydney, or chilling on the Sunshine Coast, starting your riding journey with a LAMS approved motorcycle is not just a good idea-it's a legal requirement.
What Are LAMS Approved Motorcycles?
LAMS stands for Learner Approved Motorcycle Scheme. It's a nationwide framework that restricts beginner riders to motorcycles that are safer, easier to control, and lower in power.
- Engine capacity up to 660cc
- Power-to-weight ratio of 150kW/tonne or less
- Listed on your state's official LAMS register
Why Start With a Learner Approved Motorcycle?
- It's a legal requirement while on your L or P plates
- Lower insurance costs
- Easier handling and lighter weight for beginners
- Better resale value when you upgrade
- Safer, more confidence-building riding experience
LAMS Across Australia: A State-by-State Snapshot
Queensland (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Far North Coast)
Queensland's Q-Ride and Q-SAFE programs are designed for learner riders using LAMS bikes. From urban commutes in Brisbane and the Gold Coast to scenic rides through the Sunshine Coast and Far North QLD, you'll find plenty of learner-friendly routes to hone your skills.
New South Wales (Sydney and regional NSW)
Whether you're riding through Sydney's bustling suburbs or escaping to the Blue Mountains, LAMS motorcycles are ideal for NSW's diverse road conditions. Learners must complete a Pre-Learner course before hitting the road.
Victoria (Melbourne and regional VIC)
Victoria's learner permit system includes structured training and testing on LAMS-approved bikes. Whether navigating inner Melbourne or weekend trips along the Great Ocean Road, LAMS bikes provide the perfect start.
Australian Capital Territory (Canberra and surrounds)
ACT adopts the NSW-based LAMS rules, with broad roads and manageable traffic making Canberra a great learning ground. Courses are designed to gradually introduce learners to real-world riding conditions.
Popular LAMS Motorcycles in Australia
- Kawasaki Ninja 500 - Lightweight, sporty, and beginner-friendly
- Yamaha MT-07LA - A great urban bike with confidence-inspiring handling
- Honda CB500 Hornet - A reliable all-rounder perfect for commuters
- KTM 390 Duke - Exceptional agility, lightweight handling, and punchy performance
- Suzuki SV650 (LAMS) - Bigger bike feel while still learner legal
- CFMOTO 450SR - Aggressive styling and performance with LAMS eligibility
- Triumph Trident 660 (LAMS version) - British engineering meets LAMS compliance
- Husqvarna Svartpilen - Lightweight, comfortable to ride, and truly distinctive
- BMW G 310 R - Manoeuvrability, easy handling, and sportiness
- Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 - The ability to go anywhere your adventure takes you
Shop LAMS Motorcycles by Brand
Click your preferred brand below to see available LAMS models near you:
Read the latest reviews
Want to know more about your favourite LAMS approved motorcycle? Check out our blog page for the latest news. You can see the latest blogs here.
How to Get Your Motorcycle Licence
- NSW: Pre-Learner course → Knowledge test → Pre-Provisional course
- QLD: Complete Q-Ride or Q-SAFE → Log supervised hours (if under 25)
- VIC: Motorcycle Learner Permit Assessment → Minimum 3-month holding period
- ACT: Similar to NSW, with a structured learner and provisional pathway
We've partnered with Stay Upright to support new riders through motorcycle training and licensing across multiple states. Visit their website to book a course or find training near you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A LAMS motorcycle is approved for learner riders and meets specific engine and power-to-weight restrictions to ensure safety for new riders.
Only if it's LAMS approved. Some 600cc bikes don't meet the learner legal criteria, so always check the approved list.
Each state publishes a list of LAMS approved motorcycles on its official transport website. Always verify before buying. Here are the links for each state:
You can find a wide selection of LAMS-approved motorcycles at TeamMoto dealerships across Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria. Here's a list of our locations:
- Queensland: Cairns, Townsville, Wide Bay (Glanmire), Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast, Virginia, Enoggera, Bowen Hills, Moorooka, Springwood, Gold Coast (Nerang)
- New South Wales: Blacktown, Campbelltown, Penrith, Caringbah
- Australian Capital Territory: Canberra (Fyshwick)
- Victoria: Epping, Keilor East, Dandenong, Frankston
Visit our Dealership Locator to find the nearest TeamMoto dealership and explore our range of LAMS motorcycles.
Yes, Triumph offers a LAMS version of the Trident 660 that's compliant for learner riders.
Yes, it's mandatory to use a LAMS approved motorcycle during training and testing while you hold a learner or provisional licence.
Ready to Ride?
Whether you're weaving through Melbourne's laneways, chasing curves in Canberra, or enjoying the coastlines of Far North Queensland, your motorcycle journey starts with the right LAMS approved motorcycle.
Take your time, try different models, and choose a bike that fits your body, your confidence level, and your riding goals.