Hey everyone!
Thought it’d be fun to start a nostalgia thread - what was your first bike?
Doesn’t matter if it was a hand-me-down, a cheap starter, or your dream machine - we all remember that first taste of freedom on two wheels.
 
Tell us:
What was your first ride? How old were you when you got it? Any memorable stories or “learning moments”? 😅 And if you’ve got a pic, even better - let’s see it!  
I’ll start:
My first bike was a Benelli TNT 135. It wasn’t the first bike I ever rode, but it was the first one I actually owned. I started out on dirt bikes, so hitting the road was a whole new experience for me.

I’m a bit of a late starter - I didn’t get into road riding until I was 35 (better late than never, right?). My best mate finally talked me into getting my bike license, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
 
After a few months on the Benelli, I upgraded to a CB650R once I started feeling more confident on the road - and honestly, I’ve never looked back.
 
So, let’s hear it -what was your first love on two wheels? 🏍️

Licensing, Bike Restrictions, Speed Limits, Helmets, Lane Filtering & Penalties

Riding a motorcycle in Australia comes with a mix of national standards and state-specific laws. Whether you're a Learner (L), Provisional (P), or Full License (R) rider, understanding the rules is crucial for safety and avoiding fines. This guide covers:
✅ Licensing requirements & bike restrictions
✅ Speed restrictions
✅ Helmet & visor laws
✅ Lane filtering rules
✅ Penalties for breaking the law

1. Licensing, Bike Restrictions & Speed Limits by State

New South Wales (NSW)

Learner (L):
Bike Restriction: Max 660cc, power-to-weight ratio ≤ 150kW per tonne.
Speed Limit: 90 km/h.
Other: No pillion, L-plates, 0% alcohol, 12-month minimum.
Provisional (P1 & P2):
Bike Restriction: Same as Learners (660cc, ≤150kW/t).
Speed Limit: P1 (90 km/h), P2 (100 km/h).
P1: No pillion for first year. P2: Can carry pillion.
Full (R): No restrictions.
Penalties:

Riding a non-compliant bike (L/P): $650+ fine + demerits.
Exceeding speed limits: $275–$2,200 + 3–6 demerit points.

Hey Riders! 👋
Want to support the Rider Shed community and earn store credit while you're at it?
We’re pumped to introduce our Referral Program, designed to reward you for bringing more legends into the shed.
 
Here’s how it works:
🔗 Share your unique referral link with your mates
🛒 When they sign up AND make a purchase from the store
💰 You’ll receive 5% store credit based on what they spend – added directly to your account!
 
Example:
Your mate spends $100 on gear → You get $5 in credit to use on anything in the shop.
No limits. No gimmicks. Just rewards for growing the crew.
 
📍 Get your referral link here:
https://ridershed.com.au/settings/referrals/
Let your mates know – and let the rewards roll in.
– The Rider Shed Team 🛠️