Below are some of the questions that we are often asked about biking in Sussex. If you've got a brning issue, please contact us and we'll do our best to help!
Do I need to take a CBT?
All moped, scooter and motorcycle riders must completed their Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) as an absolute minimum before heading out on the road or taking further training. The CBT only lasts for two years – by the end of this period, it must either be renewed or upgraded to a full motorcycle licence.
It is also important to remember that CBT is not a test but merely basic training where you have to reach a safe standard before being allowed to ride on a public road, with this in mind not everyone will be capable of reaching this standard in one day as we all learn at different rates. (especially those who have never ridden a motorcycle before)
The CBT training will be a part of all other types of motorcycle training.
Who can ride what?
If you’re 16:
You can only ride a moped (up to 50cc and a maximum speed of 30MPH). You must have a provisional licence, display L-Plates at all times, cannot carry pillion passengers and must not travel on the motorway. (Category P)
If you’re 17 and older:
You have two options. You can either take an A1 or A2 licence. (Category A)
The A1 licence is the ‘light motorcycle’ licence. You will take the licence on a bike between 70cc and 120cc. Once you’ve passed the A1 licence, you can ride any machine up to 125cc.
The A2 licence is the ‘standard motorcycle’ licence. The test will be taken on a machine between 120cc and 125cc and capable of at least 100 Kmh (62 MPH). On passing the standard bike licence, you will be restricted as to the bikes you can ride: while you could buy a big, powerful bike, you are restricted by law to 25kW (33 BHP) power output. This will mean a restrictor needs to be fitted.
The standard motorcycle licence is valid for two years, after which time it automatically upgrades to an unrestricted licence (where you can ride any size/power of motorcycle). This means that, if you took a standard licence at 17, you could ride an unrestricted motorbike at age 19.
If you’re 21 and older:
At this age, you can enter the two-wheeled-world by taking any of the courses already mentioned, or you can take the Direct Access Course (DAS). (Category A)
The DAS Course is taken on a motorcycle that outputs 35kW/47bhp and is usually a 500cc or 600cc machine.
Once you have passed the DAS Course, there is no restriction on the size or power of bike that you can own and ride. You can also carry pillion passengers and travel on the motorway.
I'm returning to riding - what bike can I get?
If you passed your full car licence before February 1st 2001, then you’re allowed to ride a 50cc moped only, you do not need L-Plates and you may carry passengers, but riding on motorways is not allowed.
However, we recommend that all those who are returning to riding – or taking up riding for the first time in later life – take an approved motorcycle licence. Bikes and road rules have changed a great deal in the last 20 years and, by taking a full motorcycle test appropriate for the bike you want, you stand a much greater chance of staying safe on the roads.
