You cannot ride a motorcycle without a riding license. Now, getting that license will require a bit of work on your part. This is because you have to pass both theoretical and practical motorcycle training lessons. In this article, we are going to look at how motorcycle training works in the United Kingdom and how you can prepare for it.
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)
If you are a complete novice, you need to take the CBT test and pass this test before you can ride a motorcycle in the UK. This training teaches you all the essential skills for safe riding on British roads. It has five elements and you must complete every element before moving on to the next one.
In no particular order, these elements are:
- Introduction to CBT
- Learning motorcycle controls
- Practicing off-road riding
- Safety talk and road briefing
- Practical on-road training.
Now that we have listed all five elements, let us discuss each one in some detail.
- Introduction to CBT
This is the very first stage and during this stage, the rider’s eyesight is tested. After this test, the rider gets a general overview of the basic training. There is also a talk on helmets and safety clothing for the rider.
- Learning Motorcycle Controls
At this stage, the rider gets an introduction to a motorcycle’s controls. The rider is also guided on fundamental safety checks, bike-wheeling fundamentals, and stand usage.
- Practicing Off-Road Riding
At this point, you get on the bike and start the practical learning process. Conducted in a safe and secure off-road area, the practice sessions cover straight riding, stopping smoothly, riding slowly, changing gears, emergency stops, right and left turns, performing figure eight riding, u-turns and so maneuvers.
- Safety Talk and Road Briefing
This stage is all theory. It is a classroom-based discussion and it covers topics like safe riding as well as being visible on the road to other road users. You also get to learn a lot about road rules and highway codes. During this stage, you also learn ideal road positioning to help you when you start riding a motorbike.
- Practical On-Road Riding
Now, you are riding on real roads but you are nowhere near perfect yet. During this stage, you would be in contact over the radio with your instructor. You would ride on various kinds of roads and demonstrate the skills you have learned. In addition, you should exhibit skills and maneuvers to tackle road and traffic conditions safely.
Costs
This training is not free but the payment methods are flexible. You may pay for the whole package in one installment. You may also pay for each package individually. The charges and the payment options depend on the training institute. Training costs range from a few hundred pounds to a few thousand pounds. For the best motorcycle training at reasonable prices, please contact London Motorcycle Training.
