If you have limited movement in your knee and are considering a Suzuki Burgman or a similar scooter so you can keep your feet forward, you can absolutely complete your Direct Access Scheme (DAS) on an automatic machine — but there are some important distinctions regarding the licence category you’ll receive.
You can use a Suzuki Burgman 650 for your DAS training and test. Because the Burgman 650 has an automatic transmission, passing your test on it will give you a full Category A motorcycle licence, but it will be restricted to automatic motorcycles only.
The Honda Forza 750 also qualifies for the DAS and would result in the same outcome — a full Category A (Automatic Only) licence.
If you choose to do your test on a Suzuki Burgman 400 or a Yamaha T-Max, you would instead qualify for a Category A2 motorcycle licence, again restricted to automatic motorcycles only.
An A2 Automatic licence limits you to machines producing no more than 35kW (47bhp) and a power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.2kW/kg.
If you want more flexibility in the long run, it might be worth looking into motorcycle adaptations that allow forward footpegs and relocated foot controls. These modifications can make a manual motorcycle more comfortable for riders with knee limitations and open up a much wider choice of bikes.
