HomeblogUncategorizedLife after your CBT Assessment: your journey into motorcycling

Life after your CBT Assessment: your journey into motorcycling

 

Life after your CBT Assessment: your journey into motorcycling

 

Congratulations!

If you have successfully completed your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). This is a fantastic achievement and marks your first step into the exciting world of motorcycling. Welcome to the moto community—a place where freedom, adventure, and camaraderie await.

What’s next after CBT?

Your CBT certificate is valid for two years, giving you the time and space to build confidence on a motorcycle or scooter with an engine size of up to 125cc. We always recommend spending several months practising what you’ve learned during your CBT in real-world scenarios. Riding on quieter roads or commuting to work can help solidify your skills, improve your hazard awareness, and refine your control techniques.

Staying on your current licence

If you’re happy riding a 50cc or 125cc vehicle, that’s perfectly fine. The UK offers a wealth of scenic routes and urban exploration opportunities to enjoy. Just ensure you renew your CBT before the certificate expires, as riding without a valid certificate is both illegal and unsafe.

Moving towards a full motorcycle licence

If motorcycling has become your passion, the next logical step is pursuing your full motorcycle licence. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Pass the Motorcycle Theory Test
    This test is specifically tailored to motorcycling and comprises:

    • A multiple-choice section
    • A hazard perception test

    You can find your nearest government test centre and book your test here. Make sure you thoroughly revise using DVSA-approved resources and practise hazard awareness.

  2. Training for Module 1 and Module 2 Tests
    Once your theory test is complete, you’ll need professional training to prepare for:

    • Module 1: An off-road assessment covering essential manoeuvres.
    • Module 2: An on-road test assessing independent riding skills.

    Learn more about our Direct Access Scheme (DAS) courses.

What can you ride with a full motorcycle licence?

Your age and the licence category will determine the motorcycles you can ride:

  • A1 Licence: Ride 125cc motorcycles without L-plates, carry passengers, and use motorways.
  • A2 Licence: For motorcycles with a maximum power output of 35kW (47bhp).
  • Full A Licence: Allows you to ride any motorcycle without restrictions.

Read our detailed guide on motorcycle licence categories to understand the options.

Enhancing your riding skills

Becoming a competent and confident rider doesn’t stop with a full licence. Advanced rider training programmes such as the DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme or BikeSafe (run by the police) are excellent ways to sharpen your roadcraft. Not only can these courses lower your insurance premiums, but they also enhance safety and enjoyment.

Joining the notorcycle community

Motorcycling is as much about the community as it is about riding. Whether you’re into touring, track days, or adventure riding, there are endless opportunities to connect with like-minded enthusiasts. Visit local motorcycle events or join clubs to expand your network and find riding companions.

Tips for success on the road

  • Always wear high-quality, well-fitted protective gear, including a helmet compliant with UK safety standards.
  • Regularly check your motorcycle’s tyres, brakes, and lights.
  • Stay updated with The Highway Code—essential reading for understanding your legal responsibilities on the road.

Ready to begin your next chapter?

Universal Motorcycle Training offers a range of courses, from CBT renewals to advanced rider training. Explore our training options or contact us to discuss your goals.

 

© 2024 Universal Motorcycle Training. All rights reserved.

 

CBT Complete: What’s Next?

 

So you’ve just completed your CBT Training? Firstly congratulations on taking the first step to getting on two wheels and welcome to the moto community.

 

So what’s next from here?

 

We’d always recommend taking your time and getting used to riding your 50-125cc for at least a few months before moving onto bigger things. You will learn to find your feet as a rider and it’s a vital chance to practice everything you’ve learnt from your instructor on your CBT in real world situations.

If you wish to stay on your current licence that’s absolutely fine and there’s a whole world of fun you can have out there. It is worth noting that a CBT certificate does expire after two years so you will need to book in another course and get a fresh certificate.

 

If, like many of us, you’ve fallen in love with the motorcycle world and you want to pursue your Full Licence then there are a few steps you need to take in order to get there. As you’ve already got a valid CBT you will need to complete a Motorcycle Theory Test. This is similar to the theory test you will take when getting a car licence but it’s specifically designed around motorcycles and is made up of a theory and a hazard perception test. This will take place at a government test centre, you can find your nearest one here.

 

Once you’ve completed these two steps you’re halfway there. Next up you need to book in some training to get you prepared for your Module 1 and Module 2 tests. Module 1 takes place at a test center and will involve you demonstrating various manoeuvres in front of an assessor. Module 2 is the road ride where you will be assessed on your ability to ride independently on the road in real world situations.

 

Once you have completed all of the above you will have your full motorcycle licence. Though it should be noted that your age will dictate what size motorcycle you will be able to ride. Read more on licenses and motorcycles here.

 

Now you’ve got your full motorcycle licence you’re able to take part in the very best that motorcycling has to offer. Whether that’s track days, off road adventures or tours around the world… The possibilities are endless.

One thing we will always recommend to make you a better rider are Advanced Rider Courses. There are a few to choose from and come in a variety of price ranges but it’s worth checking out the DVSA Enhanced Rider Scheme as well as Bike Safe which is a Police run initiative to help riders gain skills and confidence on the road.

 

There is an amazing community of bikers out there so don’t be afraid to go and make some friends. Whether you’re into chops and cruisers or adventure riding you can be sure you will find some like minded people out there to ride with.