Driving a motorbike is going to be cheaper in the long run than driving a car, but that’s not to say the costs do not add up. The main advantages of a bike over a car is that you once you have your provisional license, and your L plates, you can ride unaccompanied on a 125cc motorbike on any road except for a motorway. Before you do anything though, you will need to have a provisional license, this will cost £34 if you apply online or £43 if you apply by post.
The CBT Training and CBT Test and Licenses
The CBT training and CBT test is the next step toward getting your full license; you will spend a day learning the basics of motorcycle training. There is no test at the end of this day, it is just to ensure you can ride a bike. The training day covers 5 main areas: an introduction, practical on-site training, practical on-site riding, practical on road training and practical on road riding.
Test centres will often provide the bike and helmet and all you need is long sleeved trousers, a long-sleeved jacket and closed shoes. Additionally, the CBT training is often conducted in groups, which keeps the cost down. The motorcycle training school set the price of the course, but you can expect to pay between £100-£140 depending on whether you use your own bike or a hired bike, and the location where you take the course, CBT courses in London can be more expensive for example. Once you have completed this day and received a certificate you are able to ride on the road unaccompanied.
Following the CBT, you will need to complete a theory test; you can practice for this online and can expect to pay £23 to complete the test. The next step is the practical test. There are many types of motorbike license therefore there are different motorbike tests and courses available to you too. All tests comprise of a two-part practical examination both on road and off road. Your eligibility depends on how long you have held your license for, your age and your experience.
For example, the A1 test is the most widely accessible. You need to be 17 years old and hold a provisional license. Once you’ve completed the A1 you can remove your L plates, ride on the motorway and carry a pillion passenger.
Some people may also like to complete the A2 test which is based on a similar principle but it means you can ride a 46.6bhp bike. If you already have your license you can take an enhanced rider scheme assessment which will get you significant discounts off your insurance and will mean you have an unlimited A license.
The practical test off road costs approximately £15.
The on road practical test costs £75-£89 depending if you take it on a weekday or weekend.
A Summary of the Costs
Provisional license: £34-£43
CBT: £100-£140
Theory test: £23
Practical test part one: £15
Practical test part two: £75-£89
Total: £247-£310
It is important to remember that this does not include your bike, your gear, such as helmet and protective clothing, or your insurance amongst other things. You may also need to take lessons and will obviously face running costs of owning a bike.
Wherever you are in your journey to pass your motorcycle test, beginner or advance, we can help you with your motorcycle training, without breaking the bank. Our CBT course in London starts from just £110 and includes all the equipment you need; helmet; clothing; insurance and of course the bike. Or, if you are already riding and want to enhance your skills, we offer advance riding courses. If you want to know more about our offering or have any questions in general about passing your tests just get in touch; we are happy to help.
6 Lumen Road East Lane Business Park Wembley HA9 7RE