Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

The first step to gaining a full motorcycle licence

Motorcycle training

About Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is your introduction to riding a motorcycle. No previous experience is necessary, and completion will give you 2 years to gain your full license or you will have to take CBT again. It’s compulsory for all prospective bikers, unless you passed your driving test before 1 February 2001, or have a full moped license gained after 1 December 1990.

CBT was introduced to help reduce the number of accidents caused by inexperienced riders. It provides the basic skills you need to ride safely on the road while you work towards getting your license. It normally takes just one day, although some riders need a little longer to successfully complete all 5 elements. We recommend paying for an extra half a day with an instructor to boost your confidence and ability.

Successful completion will allow you to ride a moped or motorbike up to 125cc on the road. You’ll still need L plates until you pass your full test.

Tuition is usually in small groups or pairs, though 1 to 1 training is often available on request. Prices normally include bike hire, as you won’t legally be able to ride yours to the training centre. You may also be able to hire protective clothing if you don’t have your own yet. You will just need a provisional license, a rough knowledge of the Highway Code, and a desire to learn. Click here for details of CBT course providers in Somerset.

Highway Code CBT course providers

Here’s an outline of what’s included in the syllabus:

Element A

Element B

Element C

Element D

Element D (continued)

Element E

Element A – Introduction & Eyesight Test

aim of the compulsory basic training course
legal requirements for course attendance
importance of the correct attitude to riding
demonstrate a basic understanding of the Highway Code and the legal
requirements for riding on the road
importance of right equipment and clothing, including the correct fitting
and securing of safety helmets

Element B – Learning the controls of the motorcycle

familiarity with the motorcycle, its controls and how it works
carry out basic daily and weekly machine checks
take the bike on and off the stand(s) safely mounting and dismounting the bike
wheel the machine around to the left and right showing proper balance and bring to a controlled halt by braking
start and stop the engine satisfactorily

Element C – riding practice off-road

ride the machine under control in a straight line and bring to a controlled halt
ride the machine slowly under control
carry out controlled braking using both brakes
change gear satisfactorily
ride the machine round a figure of eight circuit under control
negotiate simulated bends safely
steering to avoid a collision
carry out rear observation correctly
carry out simulated left and right turns from major to minor roads and when emerging at junctions
carry out U-turn manoeuvre satisfactorily
bring the machine to a stop under full control as in an emergency

Element D – Road briefing and safety talk

Understand how to reduce the following risks:

your attitude to riding
visibility and vulnerability
ride defensively using hazard perception and anticipation
use rear observation at appropriate times
ride at the correct speed, road position and separation distance according to the road and traffic conditions
drug and alcohol use
passengers and loads

Element D – Road briefing and safety talk (continued)

Understand the correct procedures for CBT Certificate dealing with:

varying weather conditions and road surfaces when riding
bends
roundabouts
one way systems
traffic light controlled junctions including multi lane junctions
dual carriageways, including the use of acceleration and deceleration lanes
filtering in traffic
incidents and first aid
eco-safe riding

Element E - practical on-road riding

traffic light/signals controlled junctions including multi lane junctions
roundabouts
junctions
pedestrian crossings
gradients
bends
obstructions
dual carriageways, including the use of acceleration and deceleration lanes
independent riding