West Midlands Motorcycle Training School

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Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

About This Course

Book Your CBT With Blacktop Motorcycle Training

The CBT course is often confused as a test however it is not a test but a course typically completed in one day, usually taking around 6 – 8 hours. CBT’s are valid for 2 years. There are 5 elements which must all be completed consecutively in order to gain the paper CBT certificate at the end of the course. If the instructor feels you need more training to complete any elements of the course, they will ask you to come back for further training.

Requirements

In order to take the CBT training course, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Have the correct licence card: UK driving, UK provisional or EU licence with UK counterpart licence number. Photocopies or images are not accepted.
  • Be able to read a registration plate from 20.5 metres
  • Speak and understand English and the Highway code
  • Be able to ride an adult sized bicycle
  • Wear suitable clothing including thick trousers (such as jeans) and leather boots
  • Have your National Insurance number in case of a licence check

Course Overview

A CBT training course consists of 5 elements of training that are progressively completed throughout the day. These break down as follows:

Element A consists of an introduction and eye test. This involves all the basics of motorcycling, and everything you need to know for the day. Make sure to bring your glasses or contact lenses if you wear them as you will need to read a registration plate at a distance of 20 meters. This also includes:

  • Objectives of completing the CBT test
  • Reinforcing your understanding of the Highway Code to a good level
  • Understanding the importance of using good motorcycle equipment and clothing
  • Understanding the legal requirement to riding

Element B is on-site training where you learn in depth the various controls on a motorcycle and how to use them. This includes:

  • Familiarity with the different motorcycle or scooter controls
  • Using the motorcycle stands to safely park your bike
  • Demonstrating proper balance and bringing the motorcycle to a complete stop
  • Carrying out basic maintenance checks
  • Starting and stopping the engine

Element C is on-site riding where you will be taught practical riding skills using useful manoeuvres around our training grounds. This includes:

  • Riding in a straight line
  • Riding in a slow and controlled manner
  • Using both brakes
  • Changing gears
  • Riding a figure of eight
  • Carrying out emergency braking
  • Carrying out U-turns
  • Carrying out rear observation
  • Riding out bends safely

Element D is on-road training where you will be briefed on good practices for on-road riding and how to minimise the risk of the various dangers facing learner riders. This includes:

  • Your visibility on the road
  • Riding at the correct speeds, road positioning and distance between other vehicles according to traffic and road conditions
  • Using rear observation
  • Learning to anticipate danger and riding defensively

Element E is the final element of the CBT course and is where you will demonstrate your ability to ride safely on the road. This includes:

  • Navigating junctions, roundabouts, pedestrian crossings, bends, obstructions and traffic light to a good level
  • Your ability to independently ride

You must be also be able to complete the following exercises:

  • Carrying out a U-turn
  • Emergency braking and bring the motorcycle to a complete stop

What does this course enable me to ride?

A CBT licence allows you to ride up to a 125cc motorcycle or scooter on the road for 2 years. You must display L-Plates and cannot carry a pillion passenger or ride on motorways.

At 16 years old you are restricted to riding a motorcycle or scooter up 50cc, restricted to 28Mph. When you turn 17, you may then ride up to 125cc with a limit of 11Kw of power.

At 17 years and above you can ride up to 125cc with a limit of 11Kw of power.

If you take the CBT on an automatic scooter, you are technically still entitled to ride a manual geared motorcycle on the road, however we would strongly recommend taking an additional course before riding a manual bike if you have not had professional training. Speak to us for more information about this.

You can read more about the different licences HERE.

For more Frequently Asked Questions, check out our FAQs page.

BOOK ONLINE NOW

Use our easy to use online booking tool to book your motorcycle training course online at either of our West Midlands locations.

If you have any questions, visit our FAQ’s page or alternatively, ask a question using our Facebook Chat button at the bottom of your screen. You can also send us a message or give us a call using the details on our Contact page.

However you choose to reach us, we’re always happy to help!