To start riding a motorcycle in the UK:
- To ride on public roads, you must be at least 16 years old.
- You must wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle.
- You must have insurance for your motorcycle.
- You must tax your motorcycle.
Before buying a motorcycle you should complete a ‘Compulsory Basic Training Course‘ (CBT). This will prepare you to start you riding life and you can find some local motorcycle trainers here. Your CBT course will last up to two days and of comprise 3 modules covering the following topics:
- The Highway Code
- Motorcycle safety
- Riding techniques
- Maintenance
The course is divided into three parts:
- Introduction and eyesight check: This part of the course covers the basics of motorcycle riding, including the different types of motorcycles, the controls, and the Highway Code. You will also have an eyesight check.
- On-site training: This part of the course takes place in a safe environment, such as a car park or a training ground. You will learn how to ride a motorcycle slowly and safely, and you will practice maneouvres such as starting, stopping, and turning.
- On-road training: This part of the course takes place on public roads. You will ride a motorcycle with an instructor, and you will practice riding in different traffic conditions.
At the end of the CBT course, you will be assessed by an instructor. If you pass the assessment, you will be issued with a certificate of completion. This certificate allows you to ride a motorcycle up to 125cc and with a power output of up to 11kW on the road with L plates (L or D plates in Wales).
You can find CBT courses at most motorcycle dealerships and training schools. The cost of the course varies, but it is typically around £150.
We advise that you think about riding a motorcycle when travelling through life. Each journey is a new experience in riding. After all, each time you ride it’s at a different time, in different conditions with different obstacles to face. Even if you ride the same route every day, it will never remain the same. There will always be something different about your riding journey. The way you ride will also change and it’s best to get guided support to improve your riding ability as the journey continues. Always RIDE SAFE!
