Ever felt that itch? The one that whispers, "I need to be out there, feeling the wind, not stuck in a metal box?" Yeah, me too. And if you're nodding along, chances are you've thought about a Compulsory Basic Training, or CBT, as the cool kids (and slightly terrified beginners) call it.
Now, let's get real. The CBT isn't exactly a magical ticket to a life of effortless two-wheeled glory. It's more like the friendly gatekeeper, letting you dip your toe into the glorious, sometimes slightly wobbly, world of motorcycling and scootering. Think of it as the appetizer before the main course of "actual biking fun."
So, what exactly can you ride after you've bravely conquered your CBT? This is where things get exciting, and also, a little bit dependent on your age and what sort of license you already possess. It’s not a free-for-all, but it’s a darn good start.
First up, the undisputed king of beginner-friendly freedom: the Moped. Ah, the moped. It’s the two-wheeled equivalent of a comfy slippers. You know, the ones that are a bit worn, but you love them anyway? Most mopeds are capped at a top speed of around 30 mph. Perfect for nipping to the shops, cruising down country lanes, or making a dramatic, albeit slow, entrance to your local cafe. If you're 16, this is your main chariot after passing your CBT. You’ll be restricted to a 125cc engine or less, and you’ll have a 'P' plate to proudly display. Think of it as a gentle, polite warning to other road users: "I'm new, please be patient, and don't judge my slightly shaky lane changes."
But wait, there's more! If you're 17 or over and you've got your CBT, the world opens up a little wider. Suddenly, you can hop on a Motorcycle with an engine size of up to 125cc. This is where things start to feel a bit more… motorcycle-y. You can actually get up to faster speeds (within legal limits, of course!), and you might even be able to keep up with traffic on slightly busier roads. It's not a rocket ship, but it’s certainly a step up from the moped's leisurely stroll. These bikes are great for learning the ropes of clutch control, gear changes, and that all-important balance. Plus, there are so many cool-looking 125cc bikes out there these days. You can look stylish while still being completely legal and sensible.
Compulsory basic training CBT – Rider's Handbook
Now, here's where things get a tiny bit more complicated, but still within the realm of CBT awesomeness. If you already hold a full car license issued before February 1, 2001, then congratulations! You lucky duck, you can ride a larger motorcycle or scooter (up to 50cc) without even doing a CBT. But if your car license is from after that date, or you just want the full experience, the CBT is your key. Even with a CBT, your age still plays a role in what you can ride long term. However, for the initial CBT certificate, you're being assessed on your ability to control a powered two-wheeler safely. This means that on the day of your CBT, you might be riding a 50cc scooter, a 125cc motorcycle, or even a slightly larger training bike if you're aiming for a higher category license later.
The main goal of the CBT is to ensure you can handle a two-wheeler safely on your own. It's about the basics, the fundamental skills.
10 Motorcycles You Can Ride on a CBT License | RideTo
So, what are these "key rules" we keep rambling on about? They’re not exactly secret handshake stuff. First and foremost, your CBT certificate is valid for 2 years. That’s your official green light. After those two years, you'll need to either renew your CBT or pass a full motorcycle test. Nobody wants to be stuck with an expired bit of paper, right? It’s like having a library book out for too long – fines and shame!
You must display the correct license plates. For mopeds (up to 30mph), it's usually a 'P' plate. For 125cc motorcycles, you’ll also likely have 'P' plates if you're under 19. These are your badges of learner-dom. Wear them with pride (and a healthy dose of caution).
New CBT link page | RIDE M.T.S
Wearing the right gear is non-negotiable. We're talking a properly certified helmet (no fashion statements here, sadly), sturdy gloves, a motorcycle jacket and trousers, and protective footwear. Think of it as your superhero suit. It might not make you fly, but it will definitely help if you happen to take an unplanned tumble. Your instructor will be on your case about this, and rightly so. Safety first, always.
And of course, there are the road rules. They’re the same ones you’d follow in a car, but on two wheels, they feel a lot more immediate. Awareness is your best friend. Look twice, signal, check your mirrors, and be prepared for anything. The road is a shared space, and as a new rider, you're the most vulnerable.
The beauty of the CBT is that it’s designed to be accessible. You don’t need to be a mechanical genius or a stunt rider. You just need to be willing to learn and to embrace the joy of being out on the open road. Whether you’re zipping around on a nippy scooter or cruising on a capable 125cc, the CBT is your first step towards a world of two-wheeled adventures. So, go on, get that CBT booked. Your inner biker (or scooterer!) will thank you.
