On your learners? WEAR YOUR PLATE [Archive]

sinister^

13th July 2008, 11:49

I suggest you learner riders to wear your plate, I just planned a long ride on my brand new 08 Ninja 250r to run it in (only done 200km).

I was going up S16 when this Nissan Maxima flashed its lights so I pulled over, even though I was very nice to the police officer and explained that I was not going over 70KM due to I was running my bike in; he still gave me a $400 for failing to display my learners plate.

Fucked up my whole day and probably my whole month hence I don't have job and I am a poor uni student.

I don't see why these cops can't sort out the people that are actually doing something wrong like boy racers or speeders, not fucking learner motor bikers going for a Sunday cruise.

So look out for a Blue Nissan Maxima in the S16/Wellsford area - jew alert.:angry2:

James Deuce

13th July 2008, 11:54

It's a traffic reg that is documented in many, many places including the Road Code for Motorcyclists.

You are better off displaying it and doing 100km/hr than you are not having it on.

The cop's not a "jew", he's merely doing his job.

Your post started off well and then turned into a "poor me" rant. The law isn't your friend, a mate, fair, and nor is it a sterile donkey/horse hybrid. It just is.

MIXONE

13th July 2008, 11:54

FFS.$400 for no L plate.Revenue collecting of the top order.

James Deuce

13th July 2008, 11:56

FFS.$400 for no L plate.Revenue collecting of the top order.

No, it's a well documented traffic reg. It's only revenue collecting from Stupid People (tm). Bit like those speeders who insist on travelling a lot faster than the speed limit on motorways or SHs 1 & 2.

MSTRS

13th July 2008, 11:59

$400 is over the top for this sort of offence, but it is well documented, so no excuse. Wear the plate or wear the consequences.
70kph on SH16 is like a red rag too....

BadCompany

13th July 2008, 12:37

<Rhino>

13th July 2008, 12:45

Yeah man I thought long and hard about to display the plate or not to, given that it looks dorky and when you try'n to look cool :laugh: its not helping!

I decidied that as a brand newby rider I WOULD display the L plate for two reasons, one I can't afford the $400 fine (I did know how much it was) and two, maybe, just maybe some cage driver behind me might cut me some slack if i'm a liitle slow or stall etc. So far the buggers just toot their horns, speed past at stupid places and give me a salute :finger:, I ususaly just give one back :tugger: and keep on ride'n :scooter:

mark247

13th July 2008, 12:50

That is absolute crap. I know how you feel. The thing that pisses me off is that they have a law such as the L plate law, but they only use it on random occasions such as what happened to you. I have been pulled over many a time on my 400cc bike on my learners ( granted i have an exemption to ride it ) and i never ever had an L plate, and they didnt even mention it. Then they pull over you, who was going 70k in a 100k area, which i NEVER did on my learners, and they give you a ticket. That sucks dude. Just pay it and move on. I like cops, but you obviously got a tight as one.

Qkchk

13th July 2008, 13:13

So look out for a Blue Nissan Maxima in the S16/Wellsford area - jew alert.:angry2:

Wouldnt happen to be our fav KB supporter, Mr Ginga?

BIGBOSSMAN

13th July 2008, 14:06

Wouldnt happen to be our fav KB supporter, Mr Ginga?

Yeah, did he look something like this...?

CHOPPA

13th July 2008, 14:10

you get a $400 for f/a my mate pulled over in a street in hamilton on friday night cause he thought he had a flat tyre then a bunch of wankers came along with baseball bats smashed all his windows he tried to drive off but hit a post and got beaten up. Cops took 5 hours to get to the scene!

sinister^

13th July 2008, 14:48

You pulled over for a Nissan Maxima flashing his lights? By lights do you mean headlights, or did he have them lights that undercover cars have?

He had the lights that the under cover police officers have, but did not have a siren so he had to use hand movements to pull me over.

I was actually doing about 60km/h, I thought he was another car wanting to pass so I pulled over and let him go. Then further up he slowed right down and used a hand movement to pull me over, still thinking he was a person in the need of help or something.

Wouldnt happen to be our fav KB supporter, Mr Ginga?

I think he was a red head and sounded like a faggot, does anyone know the name of the officer?

vindy500

13th July 2008, 14:55

why on earth were you obeying the 70 km limit with no plate, either wear a plate and go 70 or not have it and go 100

madbikeboy

13th July 2008, 15:16

Swoop

13th July 2008, 15:22

Wouldnt happen to be our fav KB supporter, Mr Ginga?
If so, I hope Sinsta^ asked for the "regular customer" KB discount...

CB ARGH

13th July 2008, 15:30

sinister^

13th July 2008, 15:42

It's a tough choice to wear the L plate or not. I'm deciding to wear it at the rear, I will speak no more of where it will be placed on the rear, but it will be viewable, and on the rear of the bike... My secret plan. :rockon:

No offense dude, but I have to admit that you're an idiot for doing 70km/h without the L plate, by doing that you were just asking for trouble (from motorists AND the cops).

It's just a minor speed bump in your motorcycling life, just pay the fines, take it like a man, or a woman, and move on.

$400 fine for not using a $2 piece of plastic, wow, that cop's getting a payrise today.

Yeah I know I should of been doing 100km/h with no L plate on, but I couldn't because I was running my bike in its only done 200KM.

Anyways I rode home straight away after that and put my L plate back on and came back up to Wellsford. I stopped somewhere just after Wellsford and noticed that it had fell off, I thought "oww shit". What the hell I just went the 100km/h+ by then the bikes done 330KM.

DingoZ

13th July 2008, 15:48

Displayed my L-plate. Didn't really bother me. Didn't get pulled over.

But it's in plain english (and translated into other languages), and is part of your licence condition that you do display, so your choice if you don't, and if you don't display you really have no comeback if you get caught and fined. Same as if you choose to speed and get caught.

Image v's $400.00 out of pocket ... Not really a factor

CB ARGH

13th July 2008, 15:52

Yeah I know I should of been doing 100km/h with no L plate on, but I couldn't because I was running my bike in its only done 200KM.

If you can't do the speed limit, then you shouldn't be in the area. 300km's isn't much when you really think about it, you'd probably want at least five tanks worth before you give it over half throttle. Good on ya for getting the L plate though. Learn from your mistakes.

Big ups mate ;)

MSTRS

13th July 2008, 16:03

... you'd probably want at least five tanks worth before you give it over half throttle....

Running in a new engine...you shouldn't be scared to rev them a bit, just not constant. If you pussy around too much, the rings will never bed properly.
The trick is to vary the revs heaps, but not load the engine up or rev the living shit either.

BadCompany

13th July 2008, 16:27

A bit of a tip. Don't by those hard, brittle plastic L Plates from the warehouse. Get an ice cream container lid and put your art skills to work. The result: a flexible L Plate that won't break from wind or even a crash.

Mikkel

13th July 2008, 16:32

Yeah I know I should of been doing 100km/h with no L plate on, but I couldn't because I was running my bike in its only done 200KM.

According to the law you should be observing all of your license conditions - period.

You choose to breach one, no worries - just don't come crying when it bites you in the arse. FYI - if you have insurance it will most likely not cover you if you are not observing your license restrictions.

You should be more worried about the 25 demerit points that goes with a breach of license restrictions. The L-plates are $2-5 I believe so I hope you can still afford one now.

As for whether the $400 bucks are disproportionate or not - it's a fine, it's stated load and clear how much it is... it is no more disproportionate than speeding tickets, parking fines, etc.

blade1000

13th July 2008, 16:33

so the lesson you learnt today was 1) try be cool with no L plate or
2)use your L plate and do your time as most of us have done

The Stranger

13th July 2008, 16:42

I think he was a red head and sounded like a faggot, does anyone know the name of the officer?

Check with Hinney, he knows all the faggot cops.

MSTRS

13th July 2008, 16:43

As for whether the $400 bucks are disproportionate or not - it's a fine, it's stated load and clear how much it is... it is no more disproportionate than speeding tickets, parking fines, etc.

I'm gonna take a contrary position here....
I realise that broken laws incur fines, but the L plate thing (in particular) and the after 10pm thing is not a one-size-fits-all...someone may have held a(nother) class of full licence for years, so other than the potential power of the bike, which is being addressed, that person is not going to need to show they are a learner or necessarily need to stay off their bike later at night. Some people have also ridden bikes for years (off road perhaps) so are going to be able to handle their machine, one assumes.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not defending people in this position or who have been sprung like the OP, but $400 for such a transgression is steep. Especially when it can be applied to each breach (ie no L, exceeding 70kph, after 10pm, on a 400 = $1600)

sinister^

13th July 2008, 16:57

no L, exceeding 70kph, after 10pm, on a 400 = $1600)

:mad: Booking my restricted for next payday.

MSTRS

13th July 2008, 17:04

:mad: Booking my restricted for next payday.

All that gives you is no L and up to 100k. Still no pillion, no 10pm to 5am, <250cc.
Still, cuts it back to $1200 eh?

jade

13th July 2008, 17:49

I Never once wore an L plate in 5 years whilst on my learners, sometimes they did me for it, sometimes they didnt - The only time I wore it was for about an hour to get my restricted..

Mikkel

13th July 2008, 17:59

I'm gonna take a contrary position here....
I realise that broken laws incur fines, but the L plate thing (in particular) and the after 10pm thing is not a one-size-fits-all...someone may have held a(nother) class of full licence for years, so other than the potential power of the bike, which is being addressed, that person is not going to need to show they are a learner or necessarily need to stay off their bike later at night. Some people have also ridden bikes for years (off road perhaps) so are going to be able to handle their machine, one assumes.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not defending people in this position or who have been sprung like the OP, but $400 for such a transgression is steep. Especially when it can be applied to each breach (ie no L, exceeding 70kph, after 10pm, on a 400 = $1600)

Oh I agree that the restrictions are stupid and that the $400 and 25 demerit points are harsh - I'm just saying at least they are easy to understand and remember. I think any kind of demerit points for exceeding the speedlimit by less than 25% is grotesque - but that's just my opinion.
I'm guessing that the harsh penalties for breaking your license restrictions are meant just as much as a motivator to get your full license...

I only just got rid of my curfew about a month ago and I have been hating that particular restriction with a passion for all 9 months. Especially the fact that insurance will not cover if you ride between 10 pm and 5 am on your restricted - despite the fact that they happily insure your car at twice the value in the same period.

Just stupid.

Gubb

13th July 2008, 18:07

So look out for a Blue Nissan Maxima in the S16/Wellsford area - jew alert.:angry2:

Jew?

You just set my Cunt Alert off.

Mom

13th July 2008, 18:22

I think he was a red head and sounded like a faggot, does anyone know the name of the officer?

You have the ticket, you have the badge # post it up for confirmation. As far as not displaying the L plate offense goes, suck it up. It is required by law. Many run the risk of not displaying it and some pay the price. You are latter variety is all. Travelling at that speed on the open road is what attracted plod's attention anyway.

Interestingly a few years ago I saw a chick here in Warkworth on a brand spanking new GN 250 with just the smallest bit of yellow showing under the rego plate. I stopped to admire her bike and talk to her. She was a 80km veteran learner. When I asked about the L plate cunning mounting, she explained her B/F was a cop and he mounted the plate for her.

I guess you know you have no insurance either when you are not keeping to your license conditions?

Macstar

13th July 2008, 20:35

No, it's a well documented traffic reg. It's only revenue collecting from Stupid People (tm). Bit like those speeders who insist on travelling a lot faster than the speed limit on motorways or SHs 1 & 2.

According to the law you should be observing all of your license conditions - period.

You choose to breach one, no worries - just don't come crying when it bites you in the arse. FYI - if you have insurance it will most likely not cover you if you are not observing your license restrictions.
As for whether the $400 bucks are disproportionate or not - it's a fine, it's stated load and clear how much it is... it is no more disproportionate than speeding tickets, parking fines, etc.

Quick, run for cover it's the preachers!

Wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank wank, oh and, wank.

avgas

13th July 2008, 20:55

just do what i did, bolt corner of L plate to mudguard, snap L plate off - put under seat.
If cop pulls you over - you are carrying it, it accidentally snapped off when you left home - so your carried it.
Innocent until proven guilty - and they cant be fucked doing that unless they really hate you.
Its a stupid law, along with the 70kph one.
If they were realistic about saving learners lives you would be restricted to 125cc and have the same laws as all other road users.
L plate, 70kph speed limit and hours of riding isnt going to save shit.

sinister^

13th July 2008, 20:59

Jew?

You just set my Cunt Alert off.

You got offended by that joke?

You have the ticket, you have the badge # post it up for confirmation.

Officer number: ACD868

Ixion

13th July 2008, 21:03

Gubb

13th July 2008, 21:04

You got offended by that joke?

I'm sorry, but there is nothing remotely funny about :
So look out for a Blue Nissan Maxima in the S16/Wellsford area - jew alert.:angry2:

It's outright racism.

sinister^

13th July 2008, 21:06

offrd

13th July 2008, 21:14

Not nice to be racist.....

Mount the plate on, snap it off leaving a few bits aroing the bolts you hold it on with..

"Oh sorry officer it must of been ripped off at uni today, i will go and get another straight away."

My advice, DONT ride at 70k in a 100 zone, Fast way to be DEAD!

sinister^

13th July 2008, 21:24

Mount the plate on, snap it off leaving a few bits aroing the bolts you hold it on with..

"Oh sorry officer it must of been ripped off at uni today, i will go and get another straight away."

My advice, DONT ride at 70k in a 100 zone, Fast way to be DEAD!

Like Ixion said, the police officer is a complete wanker won't let anyone off.

offrd

13th July 2008, 21:27

Like Ixion said, the police officer is a complete wanker won't let anyone off.

Ohhhhhhh......

What a prick in that case.

Call him what you want! :laugh:

scumdog

13th July 2008, 21:28

II don't see why these cops can't sort out the people that are actually doing something wrong like boy racers or speeders, not fucking learner motor bikers going for a Sunday cruise.:angry2:

Probably 'cos people like you are riding without L plates and keeping them from dealing with people doing 'something wrong'.

scumdog

13th July 2008, 21:30

HARHAR, don't you worry. I told him what he is after he gave me the ticket - (:motu:)

Oooh, I bet THAT had him shaking in his boots!

Pffft.

The Lone Rider

13th July 2008, 21:32

If you don't want the plate on, break the corner off one and shove it down your jacket when you go for a ride - heck.. it broke off while you were parking and you are on your way to fit another one on

Also agree with the speed limit on a learners - is to prevent new riders from killing themselves but established riders have no problem doing that at times

scumdog

13th July 2008, 21:33

$400 fine for not using a $2 piece of plastic, wow, that cop's getting a payrise today.

Pfft, you can get a bigger fine for using the same amount of petrol.

BFD.

sinister^

13th July 2008, 21:33

Ohhhhhhh......

What a prick in that case.

Call him what you want! :laugh:

Not a jew though:nono::nono:

offrd

13th July 2008, 21:35

Not a jew though:nono::nono:

No nothing racist... :laugh:

Anything else - is fine!

Ixion

13th July 2008, 21:38

Probably 'cos people like you are riding without L plates and keeping them from dealing with people doing 'something wrong'.

Were it other than ACD868 I would agree with you. But that officer's actions have destroyed his credibility, and I have little doubt that if he had not been able to write a ticket for "no L plate" he would have invented (and I use that word advisedly) some other offence.

Officer ACD868 has a personal hangout about motorcyclists, and he abuses the power of his badge to further his personal enmities.

Sellout

13th July 2008, 23:44

I only read the first couple of pages but....

I have the yellow badge on the back of my RZ but still travel at whatever the posted speed limit is (or a bit above :whistle:)

Passed a cop in a merging lane on Johns Road (SH1) last week then proceeded to tootle along at around 80-85kph (80kph zone) right in front of him, yellow plate shining in his face, no problems... Although he could have been blinded by the 2smoke....

I figure that if I get fined for exceeding the 70kph its gotta be cheaper than the $400 for no "L" plate, I don't speed fast enough for that kinda fine!!

vindy500

13th July 2008, 23:53

I figure that if I get fined for exceeding the 70kph its gotta be cheaper than the $400 for no "L" plate, I don't speed fast enough for that kinda fine!!

nope, same $400 fine, difference would be if you got caught at 100 with no l plate, then you could get done for two licence breaches, $800

BadCompany

13th July 2008, 23:56

nope, same $400 fine, difference would be if you got caught at 100 with no l plate, then you could get done for two licence breaches, $800

But the cop would have to be a right twat to do you for both, let alone going over 70. Hell, I was doing 80 in a 50 zone with no L-Plate riding in the medium strip, and I got a lecture and warning.

vindy500

14th July 2008, 00:09

But the cop would have to be a right twat to do you for both,

agreed. I personally ride with no plate and go 100km, Go on the motorway quite often and done a trip up to palmy, i figure if i dont draw attention to myself ill be sweet

BadCompany

14th July 2008, 00:11

agreed. I personally ride with no plate and go 100km, Go on the motorway quite often and done a trip up to palmy, i figure if i dont draw attention to myself ill be sweet

Exactly, unfortunately I'm very good at saying 'Hey look at me coppa!'

Slyer

14th July 2008, 01:33

Firstly, that cop is a munter but you fully deserved what you got. The 100km/h rule is stupid but the learner plate is one that should always be followed.
Second, the jews aren't a race, it's a religion and when people call someone else a jew it's harmless fun 99% of the time. :innocent:
Badco knows this. ;)

Qkchk

14th July 2008, 08:00

why on earth were you obeying the 70 km limit with no plate, either wear a plate and go 70 or not have it and go 100

I wouldnt rely on that tactic either. There are ways the cops know before they even pull you up what licence you have.

I'd say all they need to do is call up Police Comms and ask for a QVR (query vehicle registration) while they are still following you. Comms has all the details on computer like the registered owner of said vehicle and when the WOF and Rego run out (no good putting false rego and wof's on vehicles...) so if you put 1+1=2 together and do a QP (sp?) query person (which gives details of DOB, Licence classes and outstanding warrants etc..) on that registered vehicle, theres a GOOD CHANCE they could find out you are a Learner even before you realise they are following you. (Am I right Scummy?) Even so, if you borrow your mates bike theres still a good chance of getting caught - odds aint in your favour.

Best advice, save yourself some $$$ and extended time on your licence by obeying the law. It does suck and it is a STUPID law regarding the 70kph limit, however it was designed to give people fresh of their BHS (Basic Handling Skills) test a benchmark to learn in safety. You also got to keep in mind the fact that this may be their first licence (so no road experience what so ever... Motorcycle was my first of many licences..)

Everyone else has been in the same boat at same stage of their riding career and unfortunatley theres no fast/easy/smartarse way to get out of it unless you decide to run the gauntlet.

DingoZ

14th July 2008, 08:08

I wouldnt rely on that tactic either. There are ways the cops know before they even pull you up what licence you have.

I'd say all they need to do is call up Police Comms and ask for a QVR (query vehicle registration) while they are still following you. Comms has all the details on computer like the registered owner of said vehicle and when the WOF and Rego run out (no good putting false rego and wof's on vehicles...) so if you put 1+1=2 together and do a QP (sp?) query person (which gives details of DOB, Licence classes and outstanding warrants etc..) on that registered vehicle, theres a GOOD CHANCE they could find out you are a Learner even before you realise they are following you. (Am I right Scummy?) Even so, if you borrow your mates bike theres still a good chance of getting caught - odds aint in your favour.

Best advice, save yourself some $$$ and extended time on your licence by obeying the law. It does suck and it is a STUPID law regarding the 70kph limit, however it was designed to give people fresh of their BHS (Basic Handling Skills) test a benchmark to learn in safety. You also got to keep in mind the fact that this may be their first licence (so no road experience what so ever... Motorcycle was my first of many licences..)

Everyone else has been in the same boat at same stage of their riding carrer and unfortunatley theres no fast/easy/smartarse way to get out of it unless you decide to run the gauntlet.

+10.....Bling sent

vifferman

14th July 2008, 08:27

The cop obviously pulled you over because you were riding slowly and didn't have an "L" plate. Perhaps (maybe...) if you were riding at 100 km/h he would have ignored you. Maybe (perhaps) not...
Personally, I think that both the 70 km/h restriction and having to display an L-plate run contrary to road safety. In an ideal world, other motorists would go, "OH.... ain't that cute - a noobie!" and be careful and considerate around learners. The reality is that an "L" plate is like a bullseye painted on your back - to both other motorists and cops. And traveling at 70 km/h on the open road may give you some room to get used to motorcycle handling/steering, but it's definitely not safe. As soon as other motorists see the "L" they go, "Oh no! I'm going to get held up momentarily! The noob will crash into my SUV and kill me!" and they drive in an even more mercenary fashion than usual.

Yes, the law's the law. But it's also an ass.

Slyer

14th July 2008, 08:42

Hey was that you on the motorway on the north shore around 8:10? **zmb

Racer X

14th July 2008, 08:57

Ixion

14th July 2008, 08:58

Mikkel

14th July 2008, 09:10

But the cop would have to be a right twat to do you for both, let alone going over 70. Hell, I was doing 80 in a 50 zone with no L-Plate riding in the medium strip, and I got a lecture and warning.

Must have been your lucky day... :shit:

The reality is that an "L" plate is like a bullseye painted on your back - to both other motorists and cops.

Aww come on, let's not let this discussion degenerate into paranoid theories and scaremongering. If I count the number of times I've had some "old-timer" give me "good" advice on the matter of L-plates versus the number of times I've had anyone actually give me any hassle on the road while displaying one we're talking a factor of at least 10:1!

What's the next piece of advice? Always carry an easily accessible ballbearing for thrashing windscreens, get a loud exhaust it'll scare the fuckers and make them pay attention, always run your high-beam it'll make you more visible, etc ad nauseum.
The mentality you bring with you onto the road is the mentality you will get back - keep it friendly and respectful and you're more likely to have a good time.

nivram

14th July 2008, 09:38

yungatart

14th July 2008, 09:41

I don't understand why so many learners find it so difficult to buy a $2 L plate and display it. I'm amazed how many either can't bothered with the L plate or Will not fit one as it doesn't look 'cool' on their new bike.

The plate is for your own safety it you fail to display it prepare the pay the consequences.

Far too easy, far too sensible!
This is KB after all. If people obeyed the law, then what would they have to bitch about on here..

Oh, gawd, I'm starting to sound like Katman...please excuse me, it is lack of sleep and an overabundance of stress in my life.
Normal service will resume shortly!

NOMIS

14th July 2008, 09:50

My answer for not ever using one is, " it looks gay" yellow not cool enough " I got to go to court for "doing a runner " in sert tui add. I wasnt wearing a l plate or anything nothing happend.

I just keep a broken one under the seat and sat it broke while doing warp speed's Havnt had the chance to get a new one officer.

vifferman

14th July 2008, 09:54

Aww come on, let's not let this discussion degenerate into paranoid theories and scaremongering. If I count the number of times I've had some "old-timer" give me "good" advice on the matter of L-plates versus the number of times I've had anyone actually give me any hassle on the road while displaying one we're talking a factor of at least 10:1!
Lucky you. :niceone:
I can't comment on being hassled with an L-plate on my bike, as I got my bike licence many, many moons ago, when a L-plate wasn't a requirement.
However, when I was taking my two eldest sons for driving lessons, I experienced not a few instances of extremely rude behaviour from other motorists, and three instances of road rage, seemingly due solely to an L-plate being displayed on the car windscreen. One day too, I was driving immediately after taking one of them for a lesson, and neglected to take the L-plate out of the back windscreen (it was a coupe, and hard to reach the thing). I was astounded that even though I was driving in a normal Auckland fashion (over the limit, accelerating fast away from lights, etc.), many motorists seemed desperate to pass me and get away from me before I crashed, exploded, or whatever. There was a very noticeable difference in behaviour when there was an L displayed and when there wasn't, even though my driving was the same. In contrast, drivers in Roundabouta (the city formerly known as Tauranga) weren't quite so paranoid, although this may have changed in the last 9 years.

I am not advocating flouting the law - the penalties are too high for many noobies who are struggling to get together the price of bike plus gear plus licencing, etc. It was merely a comment on two laws that should make it safer for new riders, but more than likely make it more dangerous, due to the appalling attitudes of your average (huh... that should be "well below average") D'Auckland driver.

NordieBoy

14th July 2008, 10:12

Not a jew though:nono::nono:

But what if he is Jewish?

Mikkel

14th July 2008, 10:37

I can't comment on being hassled with an L-plate on my bike, as I got my bike licence many, many moons ago, when a L-plate wasn't a requirement.
However, when I was taking my two eldest sons for driving lessons, I experienced not a few instances of extremely rude behaviour from other motorists, and three instances of road rage, seemingly due solely to an L-plate being displayed on the car windscreen. One day too, I was driving immediately after taking one of them for a lesson, and neglected to take the L-plate out of the back windscreen (it was a coupe, and hard to reach the thing). I was astounded that even though I was driving in a normal Auckland fashion (over the limit, accelerating fast away from lights, etc.), many motorists seemed desperate to pass me and get away from me before I crashed, exploded, or whatever. There was a very noticeable difference in behaviour when there was an L displayed and when there wasn't, even though my driving was the same. In contrast, drivers in Roundabouta (the city formerly known as Tauranga) weren't quite so paranoid, although this may have changed in the last 9 years.

I am not advocating flouting the law - the penalties are too high for many noobies who are struggling to get together the price of bike plus gear plus licencing, etc. It was merely a comment on two laws that should make it safer for new riders, but more than likely make it more dangerous, due to the appalling attitudes of your average (huh... that should be "well below average") D'Auckland driver.

That's interesting. I had got the impression that Christchurch drivers were an aggressive and incompetent bunch compared to the Aucklanders... (I hope so at least ;) ) however IIRC I had only one or two incidents with people hassling me while I was displaying my L-plate. However, after I got my black leathers and grew a bit more confident on my bike I didn't experience it again despite the L-plate.
And I saw no positive change at all in the attitude of my fellow motorists after I got rid of the L-plate - if anything I've had more people behaving like idiots around me since then, but no more than what could be put down to statistics.

sinister^

14th July 2008, 11:43

Hey was that you on the motorway on the north shore around 8:10? **zmb

Who?

I got a parking ticket today yippee $40 for parking on footpath in the city.

nodrog

14th July 2008, 11:45

Who?

I got a parking ticket today yippee $40 for parking on footpath in the city.

are you going to complain about that too? :buggerd:

westie

14th July 2008, 12:15

Were it other than ACD868 I would agree with you. But that officer's actions have destroyed his credibility, and I have little doubt that if he had not been able to write a ticket for "no L plate" he would have invented (and I use that word advisedly) some other offence.

Officer ACD868 has a personal hangout about motorcyclists, and he abuses the power of his badge to further his personal enmities.

Darn another point to the gingaa cnut.

Bummer sinister. But I guess he was using the law. He's still a cnut tho:calm:

Qkchk

14th July 2008, 12:20

Darn another point to the gingaa cnut.

Bummer sinister. But I guess he was using the law. He's still a cnut tho:calm:

Took you long enough to turn up! :lol:

westie

14th July 2008, 12:23

I don't understand why so many learners find it so difficult to buy a $2 L plate and display it. I'm amazed how many either can't bothered with the L plate or Will not fit one as it doesn't look 'cool' on their new bike.

The plate is for your own safety it you fail to display it prepare the pay the consequences.

Funnily enough I found that when I used an L plate cars would tailgate me and sometimes try and go right through me. So I took it off and never had the problem. Oh I actually snapped it off so I had an excuse that it was there orrificer.
Many others I have talked to found similar occurances

Restrictions of a vehicles speed limit(ie 70kph) on the open road can lead to many incidents where the other vehicles want to go faster.
Any one know a cage driver that respects bikers going slowly

Tank

14th July 2008, 12:28

Well well. Our dear friend , Officer Gingacunt. Sorry mate, didn't matter HOW legal you were , that guy would have found something to ticket you for. And if he couldn't find anything, he'd invent it.

He simply hates motorcyclists, and is running an obsessional campaign against them .

Is it any wonder that he hates bikers when - some bloke gets caught fair and square - gets the fine that he's entitled to and then cops abuse from said biker - when its 100% the bikers fault.

HARHAR, don't you worry. I told him what he is after he gave me the ticket - (:motu:)

How can we demand respect from others - when we think its clever to be a total cunt to them regardless of us being in the wrong?

celticbhoy

14th July 2008, 12:37

Personally I always kept my plate on and had no worries with anyone giving me hassles and found cops didn't bother with me doing 100km either. While on the topic of looking nerdy with L plate when I go on long rides I wear a high vis vest which some may say looks kinda gay (yes yes I know I ride a honda!) but I reckon it has saved me from a couple of speeding tickets just by appearing "responsible" by wearing geeky vest. Could be imagining it ???

LittleAngel

14th July 2008, 12:58

Each time I read a similar themed thread like this I'm always amazed. :gob:

When I was learning I had my Loser plate on, and I noticed everyone backed away and allowed me more room to stall (as I did often!) and piss around. :Oops:

I wonder if Auckland drivers are just impatient regardless if on a bike or in a cage? Learner or experienced?

This amazes me as we all had to start somewhere didn't we??

IMHO Christchurch cagers seem to notice the yellow plate and give the room required.:niceone:

When I upgraded from the GN to the 400 while on my learners I knew the risk I was taking by breaking the law and would have paid the fines without question if I got caught! (I was lucky and didn't).

I still believe the L plate is there for the learners protection. I'm not so sure about the 70k/h rule though. For me I was way to much of chicken for that to be a problem when I was learning!:weird:

Swoop

14th July 2008, 13:13

I don't understand why so many learners find it so difficult to buy a $2 L plate and display it.
A plate is quite hard to attach and can be quite brittle. A sugarbowl is much easier - two cable-ties and viola!

moT

14th July 2008, 13:20

u should of just gapped it lost him thru auckland traffic its easy

westie

14th July 2008, 14:29

A plate is quite hard to attach and can be quite brittle. A sugarbowl is much easier - two cable-ties and viola!

Whats a sugarbowl? I always thought it was some kind of sexual manouvre

MSTRS

14th July 2008, 15:45

Whats a sugarbowl? I always thought it was some kind of sexual manouvre

It is. That's where the cable ties come in useful....:eek5:

Mountlocal1

14th July 2008, 15:49

Whats a sugarbowl? I always thought it was some kind of sexual manouvre

Kinda like a dirty sanchez I think... Or not. :laugh:

mark247

14th July 2008, 16:03

u should of just gapped it lost him thru auckland traffic its easy

yea i totally agree. just drop it down a cog and get the front wheel up, then the cop cant even tell if you have an L plate or not.

Or do this http://videos.streetfire.net/video/Crazy-Hayabusa-Launch_170709.htm

nivram

14th July 2008, 16:32

Sugar Bowl
n. Another word for the female rectum, also commenly known as the anus, poopshoot, butthole, brown eye, leather cheerio, rectum.

sinister^

14th July 2008, 17:36

are you going to complain about that too? :buggerd:

Yes I might actually, I wrote a letter to the police about the no L plate ticket and that I am a poor uni student and am in dept as it is already. -

I don't think this letter will achieve anything, but it never hurts to try.

How can we demand respect from others - when we think its clever to be a total cunt to them regardless of us being in the wrong?

The way the cop was talking to me after I was being polite to him was up right rude.

u should of just gapped it lost him thru auckland traffic its easy

Is that too me? If so I was in the country and my ninja250r wouldn't outrun that cage lol.

For future reference, I'm wearing my L plate now.

Slyer

14th July 2008, 17:51

Who?

I got a parking ticket today yippee $40 for parking on footpath in the city.
Yeah, saw a black ninja 250r 2008 with a L plate, guess it wasn't you then.

firefighter

14th July 2008, 17:59

Sugar Bowl
n. Another word for the female rectum, also commenly known as the anus, poopshoot, butthole, brown eye, leather cheerio, rectum.

rusty bullet hole, tea towel holder, sherriffs badge.....

ZK-Awesome

14th July 2008, 20:27

My justification for wearing L plates is that my bike's only worth $400, so why want to double the cost of owning it by not having an L plate?

Also, surely insurance companys wouldnt be happy if you rode round without one?

westie

14th July 2008, 21:58

Sugar Bowl
n. Another word for the female rectum, also commenly known as the anus, poopshoot, butthole, brown eye, leather cheerio, rectum.

Hmmm cos i got the nick name for it in uni. Cos if ya straddling a girls midrif and you put a back pack strap over her upper midrif(funbags) then it becomes a sugarbowl for your man love?

Swoop

14th July 2008, 22:10

Sugarbowl: Much like a teacup, but with two handles opposite each other.

Livvy

14th July 2008, 23:11

There seems to be an awful lot of advice on how to not wear your L plate in this thread, for all the fact that it's saying wear it. My two cents.

I add:

If you fit into the crowd, you'll mostly be ignored, so ride well and obey the laws. If you suck, wear the L plate. If you can't afford the fines, wear the L plate. If you've been riding for years out the back of your house, then okay, don't wear it, but don't pack a wobbly when you get caught.

And don't expect sympathy on KB on these subjects pretty much ever... :laugh:

DingoZ

14th July 2008, 23:42

Yes I might actually, I wrote a letter to the police about the no L plate ticket and that I am a poor uni student and am in dept as it is already. -

I don't think this letter will achieve anything, but it never hurts to try.

What makes you different from anyone else that chooses to ignore, break the rules which everyone has to abide by..? If you can't afford the $400.00 fine, maybe should have thought about that before riding without an l-plate on...

Also, surely insurance companys wouldnt be happy if you rode round without one?

Yup you have a bin, are involved in an accident, and you are riding outside your licence conditions. You will suffer the consequences, insurance companies won't pay out if you are found to be breaking a condition of your licence... And you will still face the prospect of a fine anyways for breach of licence condition...

There seems to be an awful lot of advice on how to not wear your L plate in this thread, for all the fact that it's saying wear it. My two cents.

I add:

If you fit into the crowd, you'll mostly be ignored, so ride well and obey the laws. If you suck, wear the L plate. If you can't afford the fines, wear the L plate. If you've been riding for years out the back of your house, then okay, don't wear it, but don't pack a wobbly when you get caught.

Why not simply, no matter what you ride like, if you are on your learners stick to the licence conditions of displaying your l-plate and not have to worry about it. Makes for more enjoyment of your riding, if you are not worrying about getting caught.....

But if you do get caught you have only yourself to blame....

Livvy

14th July 2008, 23:50

Why not simply, no matter what you ride like, if you are on your learners stick to the licence conditions of displaying your l-plate and not have to worry about it. Makes for more enjoyment of your riding, if you are not worrying about getting caught.....

But if you do get caught you have only yourself to blame....

That would be a perfect world but we all know there are gonna be the wankers who don't use it then bitch like schoolgirls when they get fined, and when, as prementioned, other drivers give L platers respect and are careful around them, but they don't really, not that I've ever seen.

I'm freely also admitting that I'm probably gonna be a wanker at some point during my learner period and remove my L plate, but only after I'm confident. But I'll just keep my mouth shut when I get caught.

scumdog

15th July 2008, 13:02