CBT (Compulsory Basic Training)
Price: £180 • Duration: approximately 6–7 hours (additional training may be required)
Introduction
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is the legal training course required before riding a learner motorcycle or moped on public roads using L plates.
Anyone wishing to ride:
- a 50cc moped (age 16+)
- a 125cc motorcycle (age 17+)
must complete CBT before riding unaccompanied.
What Happens on the Day
On arrival your instructor will:
- check your driving licence
- complete an eyesight check
The course progresses through the first four official CBT elements before completing the required on-road ride (Element 5).
Most riders complete the course within 6–7 hours.
If additional training is required, a return session will need to be booked at £45 per hour.
Training is stopped after approximately seven hours because fatigue can affect learning, confidence and road safety.
The Five CBT Elements
Element A — Introduction to CBT
- aims of the course
- rider responsibilities
- protective clothing
- helmet safety
Element B — On-site training
- motorcycle controls
- safety checks
- manual handling
- brake control
Element C — On-site riding
Developing the core skills required to control a motorcycle safely:
- moving off and stopping
- slow speed riding
- rear observation exercise
- figure of 8
- U-turn
- gear changing (manual bikes)
- controlled stop
- emergency stop
- simulated junctions (left & right)
Element D — On-road preparation
Preparing for riding safely on public roads and developing road awareness.
Element E — On-road riding
Minimum two-hour supervised road ride.
Important Information
- The CBT elements must be completed in order before progressing.
- CBT courses begin at 8:00am.
- After successful completion you will receive a DL196 Certificate, valid for two years.
This allows you to ride:
- a 50cc moped (age 16)
- a 125cc motorcycle (age 17+)
with:
- L plates displayed
- no passengers
- no motorway riding
For complete beginners wishing to build confidence before CBT, we recommend completing the Pre-CBT course first.
Anyone who does not already drive a car should study the Highway Code before attending.
Equipment
Helmet, gloves and jacket are provided.
Please wear:
- jeans
- sturdy high-ankle boots or shoes