For all potential motorcyclists, the first part of learning to ride is to take the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) Course. This can be taken aged 16 or above, on a 50cc bike for 16 year olds or anything between 50 and 125cc for anyone aged 17 or above. Having passed a CBT, you can ride the above machines on a public road for two years, you must disply L plates back and Front, and if you do not pass a driving test within that time you will have to  resit the CBT. You can not ride on motorways or carry passengers.

The next stage is to take a test course  On passing the driving test on a 125cc bike. you are allowed to ride any cc size of  machine - however, you are restricted to the machines (brake hourse power)  up to 33bhp (25KW) for the first two years of riding. You do not have to display L-plates, and you may carry a passenger and ride on motorways.

If you are over 21 years of age, you may wish to sit your test on a large machine (excess of 47bhp/35KW). On passing your test, you can ride a machine without the two year temporary restriction on the brake horsepower. This is known as the Direct Access Scheme.

Before you take the final driving test, you must also pass a Theory/Hazard Perception test. This takes the form of a multiple choice test, followed by the  hazard perception part of the test, this test is always conducted by the  The Driving Standards Agency who publish a range of titles to help students study for this, in book form "The Official Theory Test For Motorcyclists" (this book containes all the questions and all the answers) and on Video or DVD "Roadscense" (this contains clips and important information to help you pass this part of the test) All available from us or at good book shops, we find OTTEKERS in Dumfries a good supplier, and if the item is out of stock they can order and supply quickly.

You can view a complete course guide here (JPEG file, 150kb).