If you’re looking to take motorcycle or scooter training then getting some quality CBT training in Coulsdon – or anywhere within the local, Croydon or Sutton area - will be the first step to getting out on the road. You can expect your CBT - which stands for Compulsory Basic Training - to last up to 8 hours and all you need to complete it is a UK provisional licence and to be at least 16 years of age.
Although it is commonly referred to as the CBT test, this isn’t strictly the case. In fact, you don’t have to worry about failing at all, because the CBT is really just a day of instruction, with the end goal of making you a safe rider on the roads.
CBT stands for Compulsory Basic Training, and although it’s commonly referred to as a CBT test, there is no test involved. A CBT is the minimum standard you need to reach before you can legally ride on the UK’s roads with L-plates. Anybody from the age of 16 with a provisional or full motorcycle licence can take the CBT test.
The day will start in the classroom, where your instructor will teach you how to handle a motorbike and scooter, and make sure you know basic highway code. Next you’ll head outside, where you’ll be introduced to your machine for the day. If you’re riding a manual motorcycle, the instructor will explain how the gears and clutch work on a motorcycle. You’ll spend this portion of the day getting used to your motorcycle or scooter by riding simple routes on the school’s off-road area. Once you can comfortably control the bike, it’s time to head out onto the road.
You’ll head out onto the road with the instructor and another student, taking it in turns to lead so the instructor can get a good look at you both. This portion of the day will take at least two hours. Your instructor is looking for you to show you can handle your bike in a confident and safe manner and that you’re not a danger to other road users. Once you get back to the test centre, you’ll be handed your certificate, and be given the OK to head out onto the roads on your own!
As you most probably only have your provisional licence, then you won’t be expected to have the full range of riding kit recommended for your motorcycle training. And there’s need to worry about not owning your own motorcycle or scooter for your CBT either, the school in Coulsdon will provide you with one you can use. If you’re 16-years-old you’ll be limited to motorcycles or scooters with a capacity of no more than 50cc and a top speed of 31mph. If you’re 17-years-old and above you’ll be allowed to ride anything up to 125cc.
If you choose to book your CBT training in Coulsdon on an automatic machine, such as a scooter or a moped, then you won’t be limited to just automatic machines once you head out onto the road on your own - which means that you’ll be able to ride a geared motorcycle should you wish to change your style of bike later on. We would however recommend completing your CBT on whatever type of machine you are likely to be using once you have completed your CBT because there are a few differences between the two kind of machines and it’s always best to be comfortable road riding on the style of bike that you are used to.
If you are keen on a scooter however, in our opinion, these are the best scooters and motorcycles for commuting on the market today.
If, once you’ve completed your CBT course, you’re happy to stick to a bike no larger than 125cc you’ll have to refresh your CBT Training every two years.
The school will provide the specialty riding equipment that you need for the day, such as a helmet, gloves and jacket. For your lower half you’ll want to wear the sturdiest pair of trousers you own, such as some thick jeans. You’ll want something equally sturdy on your feet, such as walking boots.
Depending upon the time of year and the weather you may also need to consider purchasing a waterproof jacket or even a set of cheap waterproof - and windproof - overalls. It’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast during the week before your CBT training just to be sure.
Still a little unsure about what to expect during your CBT training in Coulsdon? Don’t worry, we’ve answered the most common questions about the CBT test here.
So what are you waiting for?! Book your CBT and get out there on the open road!