Motorbike Help

dannyrst

I'm looking into doing my CBT but struggling to understand exactly what I'm meant to do to get to where I want to be. The Government website doesn't do a very good job of explaining (could just be me).

So I'm 25 (26 next month) and have held a full UK car driving licence for 7 years (8 years in Sept).

If I do my CBT, can I go out and buy any bike and ride with L plates on? Or does it have to be a 125cc? I don't really want to buy a 125cc just to sell and replace it with something bigger.

I assume after the CBT, I have to take another theory test aimed at bikes and obviously a practical test, and I believe once that is all done and passed, I can ride an unlimited sized engine, given my age?

Any help appreciated.

Cheers

captainawsome

A cbt will only allow you to ride a 125 with L plates for 2 years.

Best thing would be to ring your local riding school and get it from the horses mouth, as it's all become a bit complicated since I passed my test.

jbainbridge

It does look more complicated than when I did mine. As far as I can make out it's easier because you are over 24 ... I think you need to -

- do theory test
- do CBT on 125cc
- do test on a big bike i.e. 595cc or over

I did an intensive course years ago. CBT on the Monday, few days of learning on a 600, then test at the end of the week. Failed first time, left it a couple of months, then did one more day and passed second time.

In any case to do 'direct access' you will need an instructor to take you out on the bike ... so try and get recommendations. Some will do taster sessions so you can see if you get on with them (and the bike!).

=rizla=

I did mine in the rush before the new test came out so obviously it's changed since I did it, but as far as I know its as JBainbridge has said, although you can do your theory at any point before your test ie you can do your CBT first.

dannyrst

Thanks for clearing that up...way to complicated!

I'm wondering, is the theory pretty much identical to car theory? I imagine some of the specific vehicle questions will obviously be different but in terms of road signs, road safety etc?

So there is no point buying a 500cc bike before passing my test because I won't be able to ride it until I've passed?

Am I right in thinking it should abit easier because I can use the road already, just need to learn how to ride a bike and then things like road positioning?

facade

You want a direct access course, taken on a 600, cost you about £400 plus the CBT & test fees, ring round a few training schools, they usually offer an intensive course where you take a weeks holiday and do it all at once.

Once passed, you can ride any size motor bike, but not until.
With the CBT you can whiz round on upto a 125 to get the practice in

dannyrst wrote: »

Am I right in thinking it should abit easier because I can use the road already, just need to learn how to ride a bike and then things like road positioning?

Yes, you will also find it makes you a better car driver, as on a 'bike, you have to look where you are going, watch out for what other people are doing and generally be a lot more aware of your surroundings, this will carry through to your car driving.

peld

I'd always recommend doing a CBT first and riding a 125 for 6-12 months before doing your test.

A 125 is much more forgiving when you make mistakes, and a simple way to get used to the road dynamics. I also think it makes taking your full test easier, as you are versed in riding a bike and only thinking about the test. It's also a fairly cheap way to get a years no claims under your belt too, plus if you buy something like a slightly used Honda CBF125 you'll see most of your money back after a year if looked after.