Learning to ride
What Compulsory Basic Training is, why it comes first, and what the day involves.
What CBT is
Compulsory Basic Training
Compulsory Basic Training was introduced in December 1990. Its purpose is to give those new to the road the tools to keep themselves safe!
It is a sequence, not a test
It is a series of elements, designed & monitored by the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency, each of which must be completed, in order, before a C.B.T. certificate will be issued.
It lasts two years
A C.B.T. certificate is valid for 2 years. If you want to continue riding & don’t pass a D.V.S.A. test within that 2 years then you must re-take your C.B.T.
Not just for sixteen-year-olds
C.B.T. is not just for those youngsters wanting to ride ‘peds! It is also a pre-requisite for those seeking their full bike licence; if you don’t already hold a current C.B.T. certificate then day 1 of your course will be just that!
The day, in order
Five elements, each one completed before the next
- 1
Introduction
During which you learn what C.B.T. includes & why, undergo a basic eyesight check & discuss clothing, helmets etc.
- 2
Practical on-site training
Where you learn about the bikes controls, basic maintenance & how to stop / start it.
- 3
Practical on-site riding
Every aspect of moving the bike!
- 4
Practical on-road training
All the things you need to know about being a motorcycling road user.
- 5
Practical on-road riding
Linked to your instructor by radio, you receive direct instruction on what you should be doing & then get the chance to prove you can do it for yourself!
The C.B.T. day at T.S.M. begins at 08:00. It finishes when it finishes!
Book your CBT
Book as far ahead as you can — that way you get the date you want.