Not what I expected…I initially booked my CBT for August 22, 2023. Blacktop texted me at 7 pm the day before to cancel due to "instructor availability." The fact that Blacktop couldn't find another instructor to fill in was concerning. On Blacktop's website, their cancellation policy states they require a minimum of 48 hours' notice before training, to get a refund. They did offer a refund, but I just booked another day with them.So, I had my CBT on September 12, 2023, at the Rowley Regis site in the car park of Goals. As someone who has never ridden a motorcycle before, I did enjoy the training until I was told that I needed more training after struggling with U-turns on the car park. I could do it, but sometimes I forgot the shoulder check or the motorcycle juddered or stalled.One issue was the car park's slight incline, not an issue in normal riding. But for a beginner, controlling the throttle on an incline made the manoeuvres challenging. Coming downhill, stalling was less of a concern, but going uphill required extra attention, leading to stalls. After about 30 minutes of trying, the instructor (Meg) suggested I return for more training at an additional £160 cost.So, I paid £160 for half a day of training, and they recommended a full day's training because of U-turn difficulties. For a "Compulsory Basic Training," i felt cheated.Blacktop didn't acknowledge that they offered only half a day's training for the cost of a full day (£160) or refund part of it. I expected them to offer reduced-cost additional training since I could perform other manoeuvres well. On Blacktop's website, they claim "Learn at your own pace," but it comes at a price. You don't have all day; in fact, you have half a day. You must learn quickly, or it could cost you another £160.The Gov.uk syllabus states that learners should develop enough basic skills to ride safely before hitting the road. I mastered many skills except U-turns, which I believe would have improved with more time.I felt ready for road training, but I won't risk another £160 with Blacktop for another half-day. If you consider them for your CBT, know they can cut training short if they deem you unready. I would argue that I demonstrated road-ready skills and have a Full UK driving license since 2005.Training aims for proficient manoeuvres, but learning occurs through practice. Stopping me after half a day hindered that. I wished to continue U-turn practice until day's end, considering I paid for it, then book half a day for road training. But perhaps that's too considerate. I hope this review helps someone, good luck, ride safe.
