CBT

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

Start Your Motorcycle Journey with Confidence

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is the first step towards riding a motorcycle or scooter on UK roads.

At Think Bike Motorcycle Training, we’ve designed our learner training to help new riders build confidence from the very first lesson. Our experienced instructors provide a relaxed, supportive learning environment, ensuring you develop the skills needed to ride safely and confidently.

Whether you’re 16 and looking to ride a scooter or 17+ and planning to ride a motorcycle, we’ll guide you through every stage of your training.

A Simpler Approach for to learner training.

If you’ve never ridden a geared motorcycle before, we recommend starting your CBT on one of our automatic scooters.

Learning on an automatic removes the added complexity of clutch control and gear changes, allowing you to focus on the core skills of safe riding, including:

Balance and machine control
Braking and steering
Observations and hazard awareness
Road positioning
Confidence in traffic

Once you’ve successfully completed your CBT, you can choose to book an optional post geared conversion lesson, where we’ll teach you clutch control and gear changes at your own pace.

This progressive approach helps many new riders feel more relaxed and confident throughout their training.

Please note: Electric motorcycles or e-bikes cannot be used to complete a CBT. If you choose to complete your CBT on your own motorcycle, it must be road legal, taxed, insured and, where applicable, have a valid MOT.

What Happens During a CBT?

A CBT is normally completed in a single day and consists of five practical elements, all delivered by one of our experienced instructors.

Element A – Introduction

The aims of CBT, making suitable decisions about equipment and clothing, and meeting the eyesight rules.

Element B – Practical on-site training

How the motorcycle or moped works, what maintenance checks are needed, and getting a feel for the weight and balance of the vehicle.

Element C – Practical on-site riding

Carrying out manoeuvres safely and under full control, using the brakes, changing gear, and carrying out observations.

Element D – Practical on-road training preparation

Meeting the legal requirements to ride, attitude, positioning, separation distances, speed, anticipating what other road users may do, and preparing for developing hazards.

Element E – Practical on-road riding

Riding in typical traffic conditions (including traffic lights, roundabouts, junctions, pedestrian crossings, gradients and bends), and carrying out a u-turn and an emergency stop.

60+ Years Experience

Trusted motorcycle training from experienced instructors.

DVSA Approved Training

Professional CBT, DAS and full licence training.

TRAINING 7 DAYS A WEEK

Flexible lesson times to fit around work, family and your lifestyle.

What You’ll Need

Before attending your CBT, please make sure you have:

The correct minimum age (16 for scooters, 17 for motorcycles)
A valid UK driving licence or provisional licence with the appropriate entitlement
Suitable clothing and sturdy footwear
A positive attitude and willingness to learn

If you already own motorcycle clothing or a road-legal motorcycle, you’re welcome to bring them along.

Please read our Terms & Conditions before booking, as these apply to all training provided by Think Bike Motorcycle Training.

What We Provide

When you train with us, we’ll provide everything you need to get started, including:

Modern training motorcycles and scooters
Helmet and protective equipment hire (where required)
Friendly, experienced instructors
A safe and supportive learning environment

Our aim is to help you become a safe and confident rider—not simply complete your CBT.

Own Motorcycle CBT

If you’d prefer to complete your CBT using your own motorcycle, that’s absolutely fine, provided it is:

Road legal
Taxed and insured
Covered by a valid MOT (where applicable)
Safe and roadworthy

We’ll ask to see the relevant documentation before training begins.

For safety reasons, Think Bike Training reserves the right to refuse training if a motorcycle is considered unsafe or the required documentation cannot be produced.

One-to-One CBT

Prefer a more personalised experience?

Our One-to-One CBT provides exclusive tuition with your own dedicated instructor throughout the day, allowing training to progress at a pace that’s right for you.

Ideal for nervous riders or anyone who prefers individual coaching.

Enhanced CBT Package

Looking to build even more confidence?

Our Enhanced CBT Package includes:

A one-hour introductory lesson (automatic or geared)
Full Compulsory Basic Training
An additional three hours of accompanied road riding

This extra training provides valuable experience in a wider range of real-world riding situations, helping you develop stronger road awareness, improved confidence and safer riding habits.

Continue Your Motorcycle Journey

Once you’ve completed your CBT, we’ll help you decide on the next step, whether that’s:

Geared Motorcycle Training
Motorcycle Theory Test
Full Licence (DAS) Training
Advanced Rider Training

Whatever your goal, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Is This Right for Me?

This training route is ideal if you:

Have never ridden a motorcycle before
Feel nervous about learning gears straight away
Want to build confidence gradually
Prefer to learn one skill at a time

If you’ve already ridden geared motorcycles or have previous experience, we’ll discuss the most suitable training route for you.

Pricing?

Training
Pre-CBT Training (1½ hours) £70 per hour
Standard CBT (Automatic Scooter) £185
Standard CBT (Geared 125cc) £185
CBT on Your Own Motorcycle £170
One-to-One CBT £360
CBT Re-test (Own Bike & Gear) £150
CBT Return Session (Next Day) £100
Payment is required within 12 hours of booking by bank transfer unless otherwise agreed.

Ready to Get Started?

Book your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) today and take the first step towards riding with confidence.

If you’re unsure which training option is right for you, our friendly team will be happy to help.

BOOKINGS

CUSTOMER REVIEWS.

Think Bike Training Ltd

4.8

review us on

Izabella Slezák

2 months ago

I passed my MODs with Barry, and he was super nice and calm throughout the training. He explained everything very clearly, was incredibly patient, and motivated me every step of the way. I would definitely recommend ThinkBike Training to anyone who wants to learn how to ride a motorcycle. The whole team is lovely!☺️

Tim Elsworth

3 months ago

Barry and Tracey are brilliant, straight talking and no fluff, if you want to learn, be safe and have some banter along the way then I highly recommend them. 5 lessons over 3 months and Mod 1 and 2 done.

Jayne Savage

4 months ago

Absolutely brilliant. Highly recommended. Incredibly professional. The time and consideration given by Tracy with her straightforward attitude and excellent communication skills is one in a million. Didn't believe this type of training existed. What more can we say you have to use them. Thank you again 🎉🎉👍

James Jackson

7 months ago

I completed my CBT today thanks to the team at Think Bike. They were friendly and professional, putting me completely at ease. I would definitely recommend them to anyone wishing to learn how to ride a motorbike, especially complete beginners, like myself. Thanks Tracey.

Oliver Harwood

1 year ago

Recently passed my A2 license with these guys starting with next to no experience on motorbikes and can't recommend them enough! Barry and Tracy are extremely knowledgeable and really push you beyond the test standard so you feel confident on the road. To top it off they've got a great sense of humour which made the whole experience even better! Will definitely be back in 2 years for my unrestricted license.

Luke

2 years ago

Absolutely fantastic experience going from A2 to A licence with Think bike. Tracey and Barry are both excellent instructors and will get you above and beyond the standard needed to pass your test. 10/10 would recommend Think bike to anyone looking to complete their bike licence.

CBT