CBT Training

Never ridden? Don’t worry, we have the patience to help you achieve your goals.

Your training will be carried out by experienced and professional instructors and we aim to give you the skills, knowledge and confidence to enable to you ride safely and independently on the roads.

Our CBT Training

We aim to ensure the process of learning to ride a motorcycle or scooter is a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

The CBT course is not a test, so there is no pressure to pass or fail and we aim to make your experience one of valuable and enjoyable instruction.

Prior to your training, please can you complete the RideFree online safety course.

It has been developed by DVSA, Highways England and other partners to help new drivers prepare for safe driving. The course should be completed before attending your CBT.

Please bring your completed certificate with you on the day to give to your instructor. If you are unable to print off a copy, we can do that for you.

What Is A CBT (Compulsory Basic Training)?

CBT is a government approved training course for people who want to ride up to a 125cc motorcycle or scooter (or 50cc for 16 year olds). A CBT also needs to be successfully completed before a motorcycle test can be taken.

Upon successful completion you will be issued with a DL196 certificate which will be valid for two years. During this time you will need to display L plates, cannot ride on motorways and cannot carry a pillion passenger.

Your training will comprise of 5 elements:

Introduction: You will learn about the different types of safety equipment and clothing. You will also be required to have your eyesight checked and you need to read a number plate at a minimum of 20.5 metres with or without glasses/contact lenses.
On-site training: You will learn about the bike controls, how it operates, basic maintenance checks and how to manually handle the machine.
On-site riding: You will learn all the basic skills required to enable you to ride safely on the road. This will involve pulling away and stopping, basic manoeuvres such as U-turns and figures of 8. You will learn the correct use of the brakes and gears and effective rear observations. Finally you will be shown how to safely approach and exit junctions.
On-road training: Your instructor will take you through all the information and theory needed to understand how to legally and safely ride on the road. These are the foundations of riding and cover essential points such as Highway Code, speed, road position and hazard awareness.
On-road riding: You will ride on the road with your instructor and demonstrate that you able to cope with a variety of traffic conditions in a safe manner. Your CBT certificate will only be issued if your instructor is confident you are safe to ride independently on the road.

We strongly recommend that you have a good basic knowledge of the Highway Code and road traffic signs prior to your CBT.

Student Preparation

Prior to your CBT training can you please complete the RideFree online safety course. It has been developed by DVSA, Highways England and other partners to help new riders prepare for safe riding and should be completed before attending your CBT.

Please bring your completed certificate with you on the day to hand to your instructor. If you are able to print off a copy, we can do that for you.