Learner approved motorcycle scheme (LAMS)

Information about the learner approved motorcycle scheme (LAMS) for learner and restricted motorcycle licence holders.

What is LAMS

LAMS identifies a range of motorcycles appropriate for learner and restricted class 6 licence holders, based on their level of experience. The scheme determines appropriate motorcycles based on the overall performance capability of the motorcycle.

The LAMS rating system is an initiative of the road safety strategy Safer Journeys.

Two types of LAMS motorcycles

LAMS-approved motorcycles

See the full list of LAMS-approved motorcycles

LAMS-approved motorcycles include:

• All motorcycles with engine capacities of 250cc and under, except for those on the LAMS-prohibited list above.
• All motorcycles manufactured prior to 1960 with an engine capacity of 660cc and under.
• Any motorcycle powered wholly by electricity which is approved by the Transport Agency.

The following list of motorcycles with engine capacities between 251cc and 660cc – these motorcycles must be in standard form as produced by the manufacturer.  They cannot be modified in any way to increase the power-to-weight ratio.

Note: the following list currently displays the more current models available in the New Zealand market.  It will be updated as other models, both old and new, are approved by the NZ Transport Agency.  Please ensure you pay close attention to the degree of specification in the list – for example, a Suzuki GSX650FU model is specified in the list, therefore it is a LAMS-approved motorcycle.  A Suzuki GSX650F is not on the list and is therefore not LAMS-approved.

LAMS-prohibited motorcycles

Some motorcycles with engine capacities of 250cc and under are prohibited for use by learner and restricted riders.

See the full list of LAMS-prohibited motorcycles

LAMS-approved modifications

Learner or restricted licence holders are responsible for ensuring their motorcycle is LAMS-approved. 

Any motorcycle modified in a way that increases its power-to-weight ratio is not LAMS-approved, regardless of whether it appears on the LAMS-approved list.

250cc or less non-prohibited motorcycles

These modifications are intended to allow the motorcycle owner to personalise their motorcycle without lifting its performance above the maximum for a LAMs approved bike and without changing the classification of the motorcycle (lifting it over 250cc).

Allowed modifications

• Full exhaust system including ignition and fuel supply tune
• Fairings/plastics
• Wheels and tyres
• Brakes
• Lights
• Any other minor modification eg handlebars or seats.

Note: Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification may be required for some modifications.

Note 2: It is likely a condition of your insurance policy to advise your insurer of any modifications that have been made to your motorcycle.

Prohibited modifications

• Big bore or stroker kits that increase the capacity beyond 250cc
• Nitrous oxide (NOS) injection
• Fitment of a turbocharger or supercharger

250cc to 660cc learner-approved motorcycles

The modifications below are intended to allow the user to customise/personalise their motorcycle without increasing the power to weight ratio. Some modifications will have a minor effect on power and others a minor effect on weight. However, these are not considered to be significant.

Allowed modifications

• Slip on muffler/exhaust
• Fairings/plastics
• Wheels and tyres
• Lights
• Any other minor modification that would not affect power to weight ratio eg handlebars or seats.

Note: Low Volume Vehicle (LVV) certification may be required for some modifications.

Note 2: It is likely a condition of your insurance policy to advise your insurer of any modifications that have been made to your motorcycle.

Prohibited modifications

• Big bore or stroker kits, or any other modification that increases engine capacity
• Ignition or fuel supply tuning/modification
• Exhaust system (other than a slip-on muffler) – replacement components on older or classic bikes must be as close as possible to OE specification
• Fitment of a turbocharger or supercharger
• Nitrous oxide (NOS) injection

Any other modification intended to increase engine power or significantly reduce motorcycle weight.

How to get a motorcycle added to the list

LAMS-approved list

If there is a motorcycle you believe should be on the LAMS-approved list and it fits the primary criteria of being between 251cc and 660cc, and less than 150 kilowatts per tonne, you will need to submit a formal application to the Transport Agency for consideration. Vehicle specifications for the motorcycle should be gathered from your motorcycle manufacturer.

Download the application form to have a motorcycle added to the LAMS-approved list [PDF, 81 KB]

LAMS-prohibited list

If there is a motorcycle with an engine capacity of less than 250cc that you believe should be on the LAMS-prohibited list, you will need to submit a formal application to the Transport Agency for consideration.

Download the application form to have a motorcycle added to the LAMS-prohibited list [PDF, 92 KB]

Requests received prior to the 20th of each month will be considered for addition to the LAMS lists, and if approved, will be published on the first working day of the following month.

Download Factsheet 28: Learning to ride – getting your motorcycle licence [PDF, 101 KB]