Getting on a motorcycle for the first time is exciting, but it is completely normal to feel unsure. You may be wondering how heavy the bike will feel, whether you will understand the controls, or whether CBT is too much to do as your very first riding experience.
Our Introduction to Motorcycling session is designed for exactly that point. It gives complete beginners a calm, practical first step into riding before moving on to Compulsory Basic Training. There is no pressure to be perfect. The aim is to help you understand the motorcycle, build confidence and start developing safe habits from the beginning.
What is Introduction to Motorcycling?
Introduction to Motorcycling, often called ITM, is a beginner session for people who are new to motorcycles or scooters. It is not a DVSA test and it does not replace CBT. Instead, it gives you extra time to learn the basics before attending CBT.
The session costs £125, lasts 2 hours, and has a maximum of 2 trainees per instructor. It is available at all seven Universal Motorcycle Training centres: Alperton, Croydon, Dagenham, Edgware, Eltham, Wimbledon and Hoddesdon.
A first step, not a test
The purpose of ITM is simple: to make your first experience of motorcycling feel controlled and manageable. You will not be judged against a test standard. Your instructor will work with you at a sensible pace, explain the controls clearly and help you build the confidence needed for the next stage.
ITM does not issue a DL196 certificate. That certificate is issued after CBT has been successfully completed to the required standard. Think of ITM as preparation, not a shortcut.
Who is ITM suitable for?
ITM is ideal if you have never ridden before, or if you feel nervous about going straight into CBT. Some people book CBT as their first step and do well. Others benefit from a slower introduction, especially if they have no two-wheeled experience, have not cycled for years, or feel anxious about balance and control.
- Complete beginners who have never sat on a motorcycle or scooter
- Learners who feel nervous about booking CBT straight away
- People who want to understand the controls before a full training day
- Riders who want a short confidence-building session before CBT
- Anyone who prefers a smaller group with more individual attention
You can also visit our beginners motorcycle training page for more information about starting out and choosing the right first course.
What happens during the 2-hour session?
The session is practical, friendly and focused on the basics. Your instructor will not expect you to arrive with riding skill. The whole point is to introduce the motorcycle step by step, giving you enough time to understand what each control does and how the bike responds.
Motorcycle familiarisation
You will begin by getting familiar with the motorcycle or scooter. This normally includes the main controls, such as throttle, brakes, steering, stand, ignition and switches. If you are using a geared motorcycle, your instructor can also explain the clutch and gear selector in simple terms.
This part matters because new riders often feel nervous simply because the bike is unfamiliar. Once you know what everything does, the machine starts to feel less intimidating.
Balance and basic control
Balance is one of the biggest worries for new riders. Your instructor will help you understand how the bike feels at rest and at very low speed. You will learn how to sit correctly, look where you want to go and keep the bike stable while making small, controlled movements.
Slow riding and confidence
Slow riding is a core skill for every rider. It helps with junctions, traffic, turning, parking and everyday control. During ITM, you will practise gentle movement, stopping, starting and basic steering in a controlled way.
The instructor will keep the exercises suitable for your ability. If something feels difficult, it can be broken down. If you progress quickly, the session can move on to the next useful skill. With a maximum of 2 trainees per instructor, there is time for proper coaching and individual feedback.
Road sense from the beginning
Good riding is not just about making the bike move. It is also about observation, planning and attitude. Your instructor will start building road sense early, including the importance of looking ahead, using observations, giving yourself space and thinking about other road users.
These habits become especially important when you move on to CBT, where the training includes on-road riding once your instructor is satisfied that you are ready to do so safely.
How ITM leads into CBT
Most learners who take ITM move on to CBT afterwards. CBT is the usual next step for learner motorcyclists and moped riders. It is not a pass or fail test in the normal sense. It is a structured training course where your instructor must be satisfied that you have reached the required standard before issuing the DL196 certificate.
CBT costs £205. When you complete CBT, you receive a DL196 certificate that is valid for 2 years. This allows eligible learner riders to ride on the road with L plates, subject to the relevant licence, age and motorcycle category rules.
For many complete beginners, the first part of CBT can feel busy because there is a lot to take in: safety, controls, practical riding, road awareness and the on-road section. ITM helps by giving you time to absorb the basics before that day. You arrive with a better idea of what to expect, which usually makes the training feel less rushed and more familiar.
Why a smaller group helps
A maximum of 2 trainees per instructor gives you space to ask questions and practise without feeling lost in a large group. If you are nervous, that matters. You can take a moment, reset and try again without feeling that everyone is waiting for you.
It also helps the instructor spot what you need. Some beginners need help with balance. Others understand balance quickly but need time with throttle control, braking or confidence. ITM gives the instructor time to shape the session around your starting point.
Frequently asked questions
Is ITM the same as CBT?
No. ITM is a 2-hour beginner session before CBT. It does not replace CBT and does not issue a DL196 certificate.
Do I need any riding experience?
No. ITM is designed for complete beginners, including people who have never ridden a motorcycle or scooter before.
Will I be in a big group?
No. ITM has a maximum of 2 trainees per instructor, so you receive close guidance and plenty of individual attention.
What should I book after ITM?
Most learners move on to CBT. Your instructor can advise you on the day if they feel you would benefit from more practice first.
Book your first motorcycle session
If you want a calm first step into riding, our Introduction to Motorcycling session is available across Alperton, Croydon, Dagenham, Edgware, Eltham, Wimbledon and Hoddesdon.
To book, or to ask which course is right for you, please contact Universal Motorcycle Training. We will help you choose the right starting point, whether that is ITM first or going straight to CBT.
Your first session should make motorcycling feel clearer, safer and less intimidating. We will take it step by step, build your confidence properly and help you prepare for the road ahead.