Q: I've just turned 16 and want to ride on the road; what do I need?
The government introduced the CBT (Compulsory basic training) course some years ago to help reduce the number of accidents in young riders starting out on their riding careers. Before you even go out on the road for the first time, this is where it all starts. For anyone wanting to ride a motorcycle or moped, It is the minimum level of training legally required to ride unaccompanied on the road, the aim being to provide you with a basic level of skill and competency to ensure you can ride safely. Our courses are carried out mostly at weekends and during school holidays, but a CBT course can be run on any day during the week as well. The course normally takes a complete day and includes a minimum of two hours instruction on the road by one of our qualified Instructors. As a 16 year old you may only ride a Moped, <50cc on the public highway.
Q: Do I need a licence to do CBT training?
Yes, a 16 year old must have Group P or AM on their provisional licence. Those over 17 years of age who wish to ride a motorbike over 50cc must have Group A1 on their provisional licence. No licence, no training. For those people who do not hold a UK licence please call for advice.
Q: How long does a CBT certificate last?
A CBT Certificate lasts for 2 years - if yours is about to expire, talk to us about renewing it or look at our Direct Access courses for both Category A and A2 licences.
Q: Do I need to have any special equipment for CBT training?
No, we ask you to come with a stout pair of boots and a pair of jeans as a minimum. We can supply a suitable motorcycle / moped, helmet, jacket and gloves. Wet weather gear is also available. We also sell motorcycling safety equipment, all at very competitive prices.
Q: When I took my CBT, I was 16 years old; do I need to take another one for a geared bike now I'm 17 years old?
No your CBT Certificate lasts for 2 years and covers you automatically for a 125cc motorbike. However, if you want to learn how to change gear contact us and we can give you a gear changing lesson on one of our 125cc motorbikes, before you go on the road. We can also advise you about doing your Progressive licence A1 or A2 licence.
Q: I have never ridden one before although I can ride a push-bike, and I passed my car test before the 1st Feb. 2001. What do I need?
As you passed your car driving test before the 1st February 2001 and if you're going to ride just a moped, you don't need to take a CBT or even put 'L' plates up on the bike. However, we would recommend that you come and still do a CBT course so you can learn how to control the motorbike and gain expert knowledge about right clothing to wear. If you intend to ride a bigger motorbike you will need to obtain a CBT Certificate. If passed your car test after 1st February 2001 you will be required to attend a CBT Course.
Q: What is a moped?
A Moped is classed as a powered two wheeler with an engine size no greater than 49cc and capable of no more than 31 mph even if it has gears. Everything else is classified as a motorcycle.
Q: I've passed my car test and groups C and D; do I need to take a Theory Test for a motorcycle as well?
Yes, you have to take and pass the Theory Test prior to us booking your final practical riding test. This is taken at one of a number of theory test centres, Reading, Salisbury & Swindon are the most local. This test can be booked directly by contacting 0300 2001122 or www.direct.gov.uk.
Q: If I take my Progressive Test ‘A1’ on a 125cc motorbike, can I ride a bigger motorbike immediately?
No, under the EU 3rd Directive you will now only be able to ride a 125cc machine, but without 'L' plates and able to travel on motorways. All other machines need to be accompanied by a qualified DAS Instructor and a full test Module 1 and 2 taken. Please call us and we can explain the full criteria.
Q: If I want to do a DAS Training Course, how do I arrange it?
Simply call us and we arrange it all, including booking your test. All you need to do before your training is pass the Theory and Hazard Perception test. We will carry out a free assessment of your riding abilities and advise you of your needs. Our DAS training is generally undertaken over a 4 day course. Alternatively, we canprovide courses over a period of days if this is more convenient for you. The number of sessions or days training required will vary depending upon your previous experience.
Q: Do I need to have any special equipment for the DAS / Progressive Test Training Course?
Yes, strong pair of boots that cover the ankle. We can supply a suitable motorcycle, helmet, jacket and gloves. Wet weather gear is also available.
Q: I hear that the test examiners have to fail a certain number every day?
This is totally untrue.
Q: If I want to take my test on a larger motorbike, like a 500cc or 600cc, can I practice on my own?
Most definitely not. You are not allowed to ride a motorbike bigger than 125cc unless you are under instruction from a DSA Approved Instructor or have passed the appropriate test.
Q: What is an Advanced Rider?
Simply put, an advanced rider is one who is able to think ahead, continuously planning and changing their ride based on all of the prevailing circumstances. This well developed sense of observation and planning results in a smooth ride, without any surprises or any compromise to safety. A rider using advanced skills will be able to spot potential danger early on and so will have time to stop, avoid it or escape. Our Advance Riding Course will fulfil all of the above and give you practical insight into basic maintenance as well.