Rider guides
Straight answers for new and returning riders, from booking your first CBT to passing your full licence.
30 articles
- Getting started
What is a CBT? A plain guide for new riders
What Compulsory Basic Training is, who needs it, what happens on the day and what it lets you ride afterwards.
2 min read - Getting started
Never ridden before? How to start without the nerves
If you've never been on a motorbike, here's how to build confidence before and during your first CBT.
2 min read - Getting started
How to get a provisional licence for your CBT
You need a provisional or full driving licence before you can take a CBT. Here's how to apply and what to check.
2 min read - Getting started
Riding at 16: what a CBT lets you do
At 16 you can ride a moped after completing a CBT. Here's what that means, and the limits that apply.
2 min read - Getting started
CBT at 17: riding a 125cc on L plates
From 17, a CBT lets you ride a motorcycle or scooter up to 125cc. What that includes and what comes next.
2 min read - Getting started
Manual or automatic: which CBT should I book?
Should you do your CBT on a geared motorcycle or an automatic scooter? The differences, and what each lets you ride.
2 min read - Getting started
CBT for delivery riders: what you need to start
Want to deliver food or parcels on a scooter? The licence, training and insurance you need before your first shift.
2 min read - CBT
What to bring to your CBT: a checklist
The documents, clothing and kit you need on the day. Miss one and you may not be able to train.
2 min read - CBT
Can you fail a CBT?
The CBT isn't a test, so you can't fail it. But you can finish the day without a certificate. Here's why, and what to do next.
2 min read - CBT
The CBT eyesight check: reading a number plate at 20.5 metres
Every CBT starts with an eyesight check. What it involves, and what happens if you can't read the plate.
2 min read - CBT
What to revise in the Highway Code before your CBT
The CBT includes road theory, and you'll be asked questions. Focus your revision on these parts of the Highway Code.
2 min read - CBT
Your CBT day with SL: what to expect
A step-by-step look at a CBT day at Barking Rugby Union Club in Dagenham, from arriving to getting your certificate.
2 min read - CBT
My CBT is running out. What are my options?
CBT certificates last two years. What happens when yours expires, and how to renew or move on to a full licence.
2 min read - CBT
Using your own bike for training: the rules
You can train on your own motorcycle or scooter, but it must be road legal and you'll need to show the paperwork.
2 min read - Full licence
The motorcycle theory test: how it works and how to pass
The two parts of the motorcycle theory test, the pass marks and how to revise for both.
2 min read - Full licence
The module 1 motorcycle test explained
Module 1 is the off-road part of the practical test. What you'll be asked to do, and the manoeuvres that catch riders out.
2 min read - Full licence
The module 2 motorcycle test explained
Module 2 is the on-road part of the motorcycle test. What happens, how long it takes and what the examiner looks for.
2 min read - Full licence
A1, A2 or A: which motorcycle licence should you go for?
The three full motorcycle licence categories compared: minimum ages, what you can ride and how to get each one.
2 min read - Full licence
Direct access (DAS): the fast route to a full licence at 24+
If you're 24 or over, direct access lets you go straight to an unrestricted Category A licence. Here's how it works.
2 min read - Full licence
The progressive access route: stepping up from A1 or A2
Already hold an A1 or A2 licence? After two years you can move up a category with one further practical test.
2 min read - Full licence
Can I ride a moped on my car licence?
It depends on when you passed your car test. Here's what a car licence does and doesn't let you ride.
2 min read - Bikes and kit
Choosing your first motorcycle helmet
The safety standards to look for, how a helmet should fit, and the visor rules you need to know.
2 min read - Bikes and kit
Motorcycle gloves: why you need them and what to buy
You must bring your own CE-approved gloves to a CBT with us. What CE approval means, and how to choose a good pair.
2 min read - Bikes and kit
Jacket, trousers and boots for new riders
What to wear on your CBT, and what to look for when you buy your own riding clothes.
2 min read - Bikes and kit
Choosing your first 125cc motorcycle or scooter
New or used, scooter or geared, and the checks to make before you hand over any money.
2 min read - Riding skills
Pre-ride checks: the POWDERS routine
A few minutes of checks before each ride can prevent a breakdown or an accident. The POWDERS routine makes them easy to remember.
2 min read - Riding skills
The lifesaver look and good observation
Why riders look over their shoulder before changing direction, and how to make good observation a habit.
2 min read - Riding skills
Riding in the rain: how to stay safe and comfortable
Wet roads need a different approach. How to adjust your riding, what to avoid and how to stay dry.
2 min read - Riding skills
Winter riding: cold, dark and icy roads
How to keep riding safely through the winter months, from staying warm to spotting ice.
2 min read - Riding skills
L plate rules for learner riders
What you can and can't do while riding on a CBT, and the mistakes that could get you a fine.
2 min read
Book your CBT
Pick a date and pay online, or call us and we’ll book it for you. Full licence courses are booked by phone.