Time for Another Adventure

While planning this journey, we had already set ourselves the goal of getting a motorcycle license. Andrea had actually started one when she was younger but couldn't finish it due to time constraints. Frank, on the other hand, had always been tempted by the idea but never dared to take the step. Since we were aware that during our travels we might want to rent a scooter somewhere or discover a scenic route that would be twice as enjoyable on a motorcycle, we wanted to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to ride safely and confidently.

However, we didn't want to begin a traditional training program with riding lessons every few days. Instead, we preferred a time-flexible approach and wanted to bundle the lessons into a compact period to reach our goal quickly. During our research, we came across ARLITT in Berlin. The driving school offers a 9-day intensive course.
In a very informative initial Zoom meeting, the course structure was explained to us in detail, and we received numerous instructions on what needed to be completed before the start. What ultimately convinced us was that the first riding exercises would not take place in public traffic, but on a former military airfield. Without much hesitation, we registered for the course in mid-July 2025.

Now it was time to fulfill all the necessary requirements. We needed a current eye test, which we completed in Augsburg at Optik Mühler Then we had to attend a first aid course. Even though we actually still knew most of it, we had to sacrifice an entire Saturday for it.
With these certificates and an up-to-date passport photo, we then had to complete the official registration for the driving test. Anyone who thinks that in the age of digitalization it doesn't matter where you register is very much mistaken. Registration must take place at the responsible driving license authority at the candidate's place of residence. At the same time, registration is only possible there if the exam will also take place in that area. In other words, if the practical test is conducted in Berlin because of the driving school, then you must register with the licensing authority in Berlin or Brandenburg.
Since processing the registration regularly takes a full six weeks - heaven knows why - it is not advisable to register somewhere else first (for example in Augsburg), take the theory test there, and then forward the administrative process to the authority in Fürstenwalde. That would not only incur another processing fee but also result in another six-week waiting period. So it's better to register directly where you plan to take the practical exam.

Of course, you can't just walk into the authority and register. First, you need an appointment, which must be booked online. Since we were still officially registered in Stadtbergen at the time, we also had to re-register our residence. As these are two different offices, two separate appointments were required. Appointments at the driving license authority are only available with several weeks' notice, so we secured one shortly before our cruise. For the change of residence to Fürstenwalde, appointments can only be booked two weeks in advance. So we had to book that appointment while still on vacation, ensuring that the change of address would be completed before our visit to the driving license authority. Phew, how complicated. But in the end, everything went smoothly.

Time for Theory

Now we were officially residents of Fürstenwalde and had registered both for the driving test with DEKRA and for the course with ARLITT.
ARLITT then provided us with access to two apps. One app was for theory, where we had to work our way through nearly 1,000 theoretical questions. It's quite astonishing how difficult we found it, even though we are active drivers and should actually know all of it.
The second app contained numerous videos from the area where the practical exam would later take place. This allowed us to familiarize ourselves with the traffic situations and apply and deepen the theoretical knowledge we had learned.

Even though we both already hold driving licenses, we still had to complete a number of mandatory theory lessons. Therefore, several in-person sessions at the driving school were required to qualify for the theory exam. Together with about 20 other learner drivers of various ages, we once again found ourselves sitting in a classroom. During this time, we got to know the instructors and the driving school better and became increasingly convinced that we had chosen the right place.

The Right Gear

In addition to the bureaucratic matters and theory, we also had to take care of appropriate and approved motorcycle clothing. Nowadays, only very few driving schools provide riding gear. It is generally assumed that you will buy your own full set. However, since we did not intend to purchase two complete sets of motorcycle gear and carry them in our Pleasure-Van, we preferred to rent them.
After extensive research online, we discovered that there is only one provider offering such a service. Through the Motorradbekleidungsverleih company's website, we downloaded a detailed measurement chart, filled it out carefully, and sent both forms back by email. Heike responded promptly and informed us that the sets would be shipped in time.
About a week before the start of practical training, the packages were dispatched. Unfortunately, DHL once again took its time, and we began to worry about our participation. Although we had specified a designated drop-off location to ensure delivery, the estimated delivery date was Saturday, and we constantly checked our phones to track the packages.
We breathed a first sigh of relief when delivery was announced for around midday. But when nothing had arrived by 3 p.m. and live tracking was no longer available in the app, we became anxious. So we tried calling DHL. While we were still on hold, we finally received the long-awaited notification that the packages had been delivered and left at the drop-off location.
Now nothing stood in the way of the intensive course.

Off on the Motorcycle

On July 14, 2025, the time had finally come. With ARLITT, we headed to Jüterbog and the training ground there. Before we even began, we were repeatedly reminded that the course wasn't called an “intensive course” for nothing. Not only would we learn how to ride a motorcycle in a very short time. It would also be intense.
When we arrived at the airfield, our training bikes were already lined up neatly side by side. It looked pretty cool. The excitement - but also the respect - grew by the minute. After a short briefing, the first students were allowed onto the bikes. We started with basic exercises such as mounting and dismounting, pushing the bike, and stopping it - without dropping it. Then, at last, the engines roared for the first time. One by one, we received our practical instructions and were allowed to make our first riding attempts.

Now we were ready to dive into the first exercises. Riding in circles - or rather a large rectangle - we practiced turning, braking, stopping, and gently pulling away again. Coordinating clutch, brake, and throttle requires real skill. Things didn't always go smoothly. But that's how we also learned how even a petite woman can lift a nearly 200 kg motorcycle back up on her own. Fortunately, the bikes were equipped with steel crash bars, so at least the machines didn't suffer too much damage - because everyone dropped their bike at some point.
After lunch, new exercises were added.
To our surprise, on the very first day we were supposed to ride hands-free—even though we had just learned the basics of handling the motorcycle. Once we realized it actually worked without any problems, it became fun. But what's hands-free riding? Child's play! Now we were told to gently push the handlebars left or right (but not hold them!) while riding hands-free to create a steering impulse. We were supposed to experience how the motorcycle immediately straightens up again once the steering input stops. That certainly caused some butterflies in our stomachs. Pretty cool what they expected us to do.
To wrap up the first day, we practiced riding at walking speed. Simply letting the motorcycle roll in first gear wasn't enough - that would already be too fast at 12 km/h. We had to brake, apply a little throttle, and carefully control the clutch's friction point all at the same time. Only when you have to counteract the bike's tendency to tip by steering movements have you truly reached walking speed. Not easy to coordinate.

On the second day, we jumped straight into the next set of exercises. Among them was an emergency brake from 50 km/h (please without falling over), tight figure eights, tight turns from a standstill, and much more. We also learned that all of this works in the rain - and that motorcycle gear is not actually waterproof. But we were all hooked and didn't want to get off the bikes anymore.
Apparently, we had mastered the essential basic riding tasks, because ARLITT raised the bar. A comprehensive course was set up for us, incorporating all previous exercises. The instructors observed us closely, gave valuable tips, and reminded us to prepare and execute the tasks cleanly and properly. Breaks were only for a quick drink or a small snack.
For Andrea, however, the trip to Jüterbog ended prematurely. When coming to a stop, she couldn't prevent the bike from tipping over and fell. Unfortunately, she bruised her wrist badly. Continuing was out of the question. Frank, on the other hand, kept riding lap after lap, occasionally dropping the bike (out of frustration?) and practicing until every bone in his body hurt.
Instead of going out for dinner with the others at the end of the day, we went to the clinic. It had to be clarified whether it was more than just a bruise. Thankfully, the doctor gave us the all-clear. Nevertheless, Andrea had to withdraw. With the pain in her wrist, operating the throttle was impossible. Wolle, the head of ARLITT, showed full understanding and offered her the chance to rejoin a later course.

On the third and final day in Jüterbog, the basic riding tasks were practiced to exhaustion. Tight turns from a standstill, then paddling around a curve. A slow-speed slalom, followed by an emergency brake from 50 km/h. Swerving, proper stops, finding and holding the friction point, accelerating, braking, shifting up and down. A full workout for both mind and body. At some point, all of us discovered muscles and bones we didn't even know we had.
Meanwhile, Andrea had to watch from the sidelines, frustrated and sad. If it had only been one or two hours, like in normal training sessions, she probably would have taken a painkiller and gotten back on the bike. But here we were talking about eight to nine hours of riding and the same again the next day. That simply wasn't feasible and certainly wouldn't have been healthy.
During the exercises, three students at a time were pulled out for a special task: lean-angle training. Thanks to special support-wheel constructions, we could safely experience how far a motorcycle can lean without tipping or sliding. We were instructed to ride a fairly large circle at a constant 30 km/h in a lean. Then, by applying a steering impulse, we were to tighten the circle and thereby increase the lean angle. After several laps, we were meant to explore the limits. What can you do if you approach a curve too fast and it's tighter than expected? On the airfield, there were no embankments or guardrails - just small rubber cones marking the curve. So we were told to attempt it at 40 km/h, which initially only resulted in us running wide out of the curve. Then we were taught something commonly believed to be impossible or wrong: braking in a curve. With some practice and a lot of courage, we managed to master the curve at 40 km/h using the brake.
The final highlight in Jüterbog was emergency braking from higher speeds. First, we accelerated to 70 km/h and then had to stop as quickly as possible - without tipping over. Anyone who managed that could increase their speed by 20 km/h increments up to a maximum of 130 km/h. Now we had to concentrate intensely and avoid making any mistakes. And we were finally allowed to really twist the throttle - though we weren't supposed to shift higher than third gear. As Wolle always said: “Turn up the volume properly on the right.”

After three days in Jüterbog, we headed home. But there was no time to recover - because now came the city rides through Berlin. In a quiet cul-de-sac, we repeatedly practiced the basic riding tasks and rode along the future test routes. Now, in addition to controlling the bike, we had to deal with flowing traffic and Germany's forest of road signs. Even after nearly 30 years of driving a car, it was anything but easy.

The Class Trip

The highlight of the motorcycle course was supposed to be the “class trip” to the Franconian Forest. Since almost all of the learner riders were not yet ready in terms of riding skills, the excursion was postponed by one day to gain some additional riding practice. But then the long tour finally began. Nine learner riders, who had to take turns riding and were supervised by four instructors, first traveled along the highway and later along winding country roads to the Bischofsmühle in the Franconian Forest. Along the way, we not only learned how to ride on the highway, but above all the correct cornering technique.

Before we could take the exam, only the night ride was missing. But first, there was another detailed discussion. As learner riders, we were able to assess ourselves and name our weaknesses. The instructor also gave an evaluation of our readiness for the exam and, if necessary, recommended scheduling additional practice lessons.
Since Frank still felt unsure, especially with tight turns and the slow slalom, an extra training session with basic riding exercises was added before the night ride. With great patience and numerous tips, OJ was able to eliminate Frank's weaknesses. The subsequent night ride then went largely smoothly, so nothing stood in the way of the practical exam.
Now all that remained was to find an appointment with DEKRA.

Andrea gets back on

Right on time for August 25, 2025, Andrea's wrist had recovered, and she was able to resume the intensive course in Jüterbog. Now it was once again about getting on and off the bike safely, starting and stopping, and gaining control over the motorcycle. But this also includes feeling confident on the machine. Therefore, the learners were again asked to ride hands-free and apply steering impulses. It quickly became clear to everyone that this works and that the motorcycle does not simply fall over.
Then it was time for the first exercises: braking precisely between two cones and stopping accurately. Then making a tight turn at the end of the “plate” by applying pressure - while not forgetting proper visual guidance. After eight hours on the motorcycle, the day finally came to an end. During a shared dinner, impressions from the first day were discussed before everyone, exhausted, fell into bed.
But what would an intensive course be if it weren't intensive? So on the second day in Jüterbog, it was back on the bike. What had been learned the day before needed to be reinforced, and additional exercises were added. Among other things, riding at walking pace was required. Those who wanted could also try the slow slalom. The evasive maneuver also had to be mastered. Nothing would be worse than a car door suddenly opening in front of you later and not knowing what to do or swerving left only to crash into oncoming traffic.
In Jüterbog, learners have enough space to repeatedly practice all basic riding tasks in an extensive course. The instructors stand by, providing feedback and tips. Since Frank was still waiting for his exam date, he took the opportunity to get back on a motorcycle in the afternoon and joined the course to improve his skills. Only in the early evening did the training end, and after a delicious dinner, everyone went to bed with aching limbs.
On the last day in Jüterbog, the course was slightly reduced to make room for lean-angle training. Several motorcycles were equipped with special support wheels for this purpose. The learners were to ride in a steady lean at 30 km/h in a wide circle. Once accustomed, the circle was to be tightened by a strong steering impulse, increasing the lean angle. It takes a surprising amount of effort. However, the goal is not to touch the support wheel to the ground - it is only there for safety.
The session concluded with emergency braking at higher speeds. There was plenty of space on the “plate”, and one by one, motorcycles came speeding in at over 100 km/h, with learners applying strong braking to come to a stop as quickly as possible. Finally, it was time to pat ourselves on the back after all, this was once again the best group of the day. After a final discussion, everyone was dismissed, and we headed home.

Andrea's Class Trip

As usual, the first city rides followed on Thursday and Friday. Now Andrea also had to make her way through Berlin traffic, demonstrating her knowledge and riding skills. Of course, the basic riding tasks were also practiced, as they are relevant for the exam. After Friday's lesson, she was informed that she could participate in the class trip starting Wednesday and would have additional lessons beforehand.
With mixed feelings, Andrea arrived at the driving school on Wednesday morning. She was particularly concerned about the wind on the highway and the expected cornering training. Nevertheless, she was looking forward to the trip to the Franconian Forest, where a charming hotel in the middle of the woods with cozy rooms and delicious food awaited her. The class trip is definitely a reward for the previous hardships.

Two days later, Frank was able to pick up Andrea safely again. With a big smile on her face and somewhat exhausted from the long tour, she stood at the driving school. Surprisingly, after the long ride, Andrea still had her night ride scheduled the same day. So at sunset, it was back on the motorcycle and through the city. It wasn't until around 9 p.m. that it finally ended. Then it was just a train ride home and straight to bed. Fortunately, on Friday she didn't have to ride again until the afternoon, so she could sleep in.
After Andrea had injured her wrist during her first time in Jüterbog, nothing was found in the emergency room X-ray, so it was assumed to be just a bruise. After about six weeks of rest, everything seemed fine again. It was therefore surprising that pain reappeared during training in Jüterbog. Andrea could only complete the city rides and the later class trip partly with painkillers. Even the admittedly short breaks in between did not really help the wrist recover.

Finally, the Exam

At last, the time had come - our exam dates were set. Shortly before the exam, we had another lesson to go over anything we still felt unsure about. We repeatedly practiced the basic riding tasks in a secluded parking lot: slalom, evasive maneuvers, emergency braking, and especially the tricky slow slalom.
ARLITT also supported us mentally in an excellent way. Through friendly conversations before and after lessons - and even during rides - we were repeatedly reminded that the examiners do not want to fail us. They are not looking for mistakes to annoy us; rather, they would love to hand us our licenses. All we had to do was ride exactly as we had learned and demonstrated in many lessons. Still, a good amount of nervousness remained, since every mistake is noted and the basic tasks cannot be repeated indefinitely. Nevertheless, we looked forward to the exam and were confident in our abilities.
By coincidence, we even had the same examiner. We were welcomed by the friendly Stefanie Heuer from DEKRA, and with a bit of humor and relaxed remarks, the exam began. First, the documents were checked (instructor license, ID, vehicle registration), followed by a quick pat on the back - not because we had passed yet, but because checking the back protector is mandatory. Then came the technical check. While not part of the exam, it makes a good impression if you can answer the questions. So you should know, for example, how to check the oil level and what to look for regarding the chain and tires.
After all the preliminaries, the riding test began. It started with some city riding to reach a suitable place for the basic tasks. It is important to note that the examiner can see you but not hear you. Therefore, you must clearly signal your awareness for example, by always applying the brake at pedestrian crossings and visibly looking around. You should also ask in time whether to go left or right if the road does not continue straight. A simple nod (“wobble head”) signals that you understood the situation, and the examiner will instruct you via the instructor. Another challenge is Berlin traffic: construction sites, signs, and unclear markings appear everywhere, often only becoming clear at the last moment. Sometimes it's even unclear whether a 30 km/h limit applies only to a construction zone or beyond. If you can pass in Berlin, you can probably ride anywhere!
In an industrial area, we had to demonstrate the basic riding tasks. Mandatory for class A are the slow slalom, emergency braking, and both braked and unbraked evasive maneuvers. Additionally, normal slalom and stopping (twice left, twice right) are required. Important: only three tasks allow a second attempt. The engine must not stall, cones must remain standing, and the wrong foot - or both feet - must not touch the ground. Dropping the motorcycle is an absolute taboo, as it counts as an accident and results in immediate failure.
Once you survive the basic tasks, the second part of the test begins. Usually, you get a chance to ride on country roads and faster roads where you can accelerate properly but without overdoing it. Then it's back through the city to the starting point.
Upon arrival, our examiner said that we had ridden so badly at the end that she would now have to take away our licenses. What? What had we done wrong?

Then she started smiling and we realized we had passed. The examiner and instructor congratulated us warmly, and in return, we received our temporary driving permits.

The originals will arrive by mail in about 3-4 weeks.