Everything you need to know about a CBT test

What is a CBT test?

CBT stands for Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) and is a compulsory course needed to legally ride a motorcycle or moped in the UK. 

If you’re new to the roads as a motorcyclist, then you’re going to want to book in your CBT Training ASAP, to get fully clued up on standard safety practices. you’ll be pleased to know that CBT Training will only take you up to 1 working day of solid concentration, and active listening to learn all you need to know. 

Your CBT Training is vital as it will provide you with the basic skills and knowledge to ride your  2-wheeled vehicle safely and confidently on the open road. 

How can I prepare for my CBT Test?

There are lots of things you can do to prepare for your CBT Training to ensure full confidence and awareness: 

-To get started, have a thorough read-through of your CBT Training notes. A trusty flash card does wonders for remembering some key knowledge. 

-Read the Highway Code to ensure you’re fully confident in road safety. It’s also important to look at your personal handbook which will have lots of important info you’ll need to be aware of. 

– This one might sound silly, but practising balance on a bicycle is a great way to remind yourself of the feel and functionality of a 2-wheeled vehicle. So if your balance is a little rusty, giving your bike a practice run around the roads is the perfect answer, but don’t forget your helmet!

-Avoid distractions at all costs. Turn your phone off and stay 100% focused on the training task at hand. As a new learner, you’ll pick up new habits easily so ensuring a good routine when it comes to your pre-training prep is crucial for your safety. 

How does CBT Training typically run?

First things first, you’ll need a CBT introduction session which will give you a good idea of what to expect, and how things will run throughout the day. 

Then you’ll receive some practical on-site training, which you’ll then apply to a practical riding session that will be completed on-site and in full supervision. This will involve learning how to handle the vehicle safely and functionally, and learn the basic highway code. This is the shortest part of your training, but is a crucial part so be sure to listen up!

After a short tea break (and possibly a sweet treat), it’s time to hit the off-road training area to familiarise yourself with your 2-wheeled vehicle! This is your chance to get serious about the technicalities and learn how the breaks, throttle and gears work. If all goes well, you’ll be able to get started on some basic manoeuvres.  

When you’ve proved your diligence for safe riding, and your instructor gives you the green light, it’s time for the moment you’ve been waiting for! It’s time to put those hard listening skills to the test and get out on the road where you’ll be assessed by your instructor. It will take around 2 hours and is the most important part of the day, as you’ll experience what it’s really like to be driving safely and freely on the road as a qualified motorcyclist. 

Although it sounds like a lot, it’s really quite simple. It’s also very exciting, as after successfully completing the course, you can take to the road alone. Happy riding!