This study shows that there is an inequality in the practical riding test of the motorcycle since men are more likely to pass the test than women. The most obvious difference in test scores is that women perform worse on slow speed manoeuvres than men. One reason for this can be because of women's shorter height and lower body weight. To reach to the ground and at the same time reach the handlebars is crucial when manoeuvring the bike at slow speed. When the speed increases, this is not as important and this is also supported by the fact that women manage the braking test and tests at high speed as well as or better than men. This suggests that the prospects for short women and men are not the same as others who are taller when it comes to their ability to carry out a manoeuvre at a slow speed. That in turn means that women are hit harder because they are on average shorter and lighter than males. One important reason for this is the lack of low seat height motorcycles which can be used during the practical riding test. Many driving schools have acquired low seat height motorcycles or use motorcycles with seats that can be adjusted, but still this is a problem for many. The results from the practical driving test for category B (cars) show no differences in the approval rate between men and women, which is interpreted to mean that men and women have equal chances to pass this test. If we look at how they are trained then we can see that women choose to take more professional help, while men rely more on private training. As for the theoretical test for motorcycles, men and women do equally well whereas for category B, women get better results than men. This is also in line with other studies showing that women usually get better grades at school than men. Therefore, no specific issues have been identified that would suggest a gender bias when it comes to the theoretical test. One result that emerged from this study is that the Driver Examiner Offices across the country present different approval rates, both in general but also with regard to the number of men and women who pass the test. In some cases, the differences are quite small, while in others they are very large. To some extent, this can be linked to how well prepared the student is. Different traditions have evolved in different parts of the country when it comes to; first how the training was carried out, secondly how much training they have had and thirdly how many enroll for the test before they have had enough training. Probably the differences in approval rates can also be linked to how the test itself is being judged by the examiner. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that there is an injustice in the driving test for motorcycles and a step in the right direction would be to look at ways to provide motorcycles which are better suited for short people. However, it cannot be ruled out that gender stereotypes can affect both the aspirant and the examiner. (Author/publisher)
Abstract