Guide 1: How To Prepare For Your CBT?
We’ve put together a short guide to help you prepare and receive the most out of your CBT day.

1. What Do I Need To Bring?

Your valid UK provisional or full driving licence. With the provisional entitlement to ride a motorcycle.
If you have an EU licence, you must bring a returned D9 form accompanied by your EU licence photo card (you must have applied for a D9 form and then received it in advance).
A good understanding of the English language is essential as you will be required to follow verbal instructions and commands both on the training area and out on the road ride element via intercoms.
If you are bringing your own motorcycle, you must have insurance, MOT certificate, valid road tax and L plates and a current in date CBT. Some insurance companies do not cover training so it’s important to check this before attending.

2) What Do I Wear?

Jacket and trousers - Made of thick material such as leather or heavy denim that shields you from abrasion and impact.
Shoes or boots / motorcycle boots - Made of sturdy material such as leather which provides support and protection for the ankles no steal toecaps if you are riding a geared motorcycle. Avoid training shoes or similar as the instructor will not allow you to train and you will lose your deposit.
Weather appropriate clothing - In cold weather, ensure that you wear thermals when training outdoors. This will keep you warm and comfortable. In warm or hot weather, consider lightweight materials which still keep you safe such as Kevlar or leather. Avoid shorts as the instructor will not allow you to train and you will lose your deposit.
Items that are provided - Helmets, high visibility vests and gloves and Jackets, however, if you would like to bring your own, they must prescribe to BSI, CE or ECE standards. 

3) Arrival

You cannot be late - missing the start of your training is against DVSA regulations and you will not be allowed to train. (Arrive early - training starts at 08:45) You will be required to fill in a trainee rider form.
Plan your journey in advance and be up to date with the best route of travel.
Double-check your CBT training information. This includes date, time and our location for your training (Unit 26 Pride Court, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 8GL). Look up the location of your training school in advance. Sometimes the physical location may be obscure, the internet on your phone might stop working and this may cause delays.

4) How Should I Prepare?

Revise the Highway Code
Learn the basic theory of riding a motorcycle
Read more about the 5 elements of the CBT
Watch CBT training videos on YouTube to see what the day looks like. The below from the DVSA is a good place to start.
Purchase Preparation Guides
 

5) What Must I Be Able To Do On That Day?

Read a number plate standing 20 meters away. If you usually wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure to have them with you.
Balancing on a motorcycle. If you can balance well on a bicycle, you are more likely to be able to balance yourself on a motorcycle.
Go through the Highway Code. You are expected to understand road rules and traffic signals to complete your CBT.

The day consists of 5 elements in total and you must successfully complete all of them. (if your unable to reach the satisfactory level required at anytime, you'll not be able to proceed to the next element. Further training at your cost will then be advised at another time. Your CBT will be ended at the stage you have achieved. There are No refunds for any time lost as to proceed beyond the candidates ability would be hazardous and unethical). This is broken down into the introduction, motorcycle controls overview, off-road riding, on-road theory and on-road riding.

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Guide 2: Motorcycle Controls and Overview
The first part of your CBT training is an introduction to the controls used whilst riding a motorcycle or scooter. It is good for you to familiarise yourself with this before you attend the training session.
 
This diagram shows the basic controls found on a modern day scooter/ motorcycle.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Left Handlebar controls: 

High Beam - These buttons are found on a control panel next to your left handlebar operated by your left thumb. These are used to switch between full and dipped beams. Note that the light on modern motorcycles/scooters are always turned on automatically for safety reasons.
Horns - The horn button is usually located on the same control panel as the high beam. Use this to warn other drivers on the road in unexpected circumstances where you cannot be seen or in poor visibility conditions.
Turn signal (Indicators) - The turn signal is usually found on the same side. Indicate to signal to other drivers that you intend to turn or change directions.
Clutch lever (manual motorcycles only) - The clutch lever is found in front of your left handle bar. You must use the clutch to : select or change gears including going into neutral in addition to engaging it for slow speed manoeuvres. On an automatic scooter this lever is the rear brake.
Choke (on certain motorcycles only) - The choke is a button found between the left hand bar and the clutch levers. It is a useful device to have on your motorcycle when starting a cold engine as it changes the amount of air which the engine burns with the fuel mixture.

Right handlebar controls:

Engine cut out switch - This is usually a red button right next to the right handlebars. It acts as a kill switch for your motorcycles engine and electrical circuits in the event of an emergency such as a crash to prevent the risk of fire.
Electric starter - This button is usually located on the right handlebar and is used to start the motorcycle.
Front brake lever - This lever is found right above the right side handlebar and applies the front brake. To use the brake, squeeze the lever closer to you.
Accelerator - Your right handle acts as the accelerator. This controls the engine speeds when you rotate the handle towards you. The fuel that is funnelled through this rotating either slows down or speeds up your motorcycle.

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Manual Motorcycle Controls:

Foot controls

Gear selector - The gear selector is found in front of your left foot rest. Change gears using this and the clutch to match the engine power of your motorcycle with the speeds you are travelling on the road.
Rear brake pedal - The rear brake pedal is found in front of your right foot rest and operates the rear brake.
Kick start lever - This lever is found above the foot peg. To start the bike It must be pushed down hard which gets the piston moving and fires up the engine.

Instruments Panel:

Speedometer - This shows the speeds your motorcycle is travelling in miles or kilometres per hour.
Trip meter - This records the distance travelled in one trip if reset to zero before the start of the trip.
Ignition light - This comes on when the ignition is switched on and should go off when the engine is running.
Neutral light - This shows that your gears are in neutral position.
Rev counter - This shows engine speeds in revolutions per minute [RPM]
Indicator repeater - This shows that your indicators are in use.
High beam light - This shows that your high beams are in use.
Ignition switch - This switch is operated by the ignition key. There are three Main positions – off, on and lock.
Fuel Level - Shows how much fuel is inside the tank. Ensure the bike is on flat ground for an accurate reading.

The motorcycle stands:

Centre stand - To position your motorcycle using a centre stand, stand on the left side of your motorcycle holding your left handlebar. Then with your right foot, push the stand down while holding the saddle at the rear of your motorcycle with your right hand. Keep holding the stand down with your foot then push your motorcycle backwards and upwards. Your motorcycle is now positioned on the centre stand.
 
Side stand - The side stand is much easier to use compared to the centre stand however you must ensure that the ground the stand is leaning on is firm and stable. To position your motorcycle on the side stand, stand on the left side of your motorcycle while holding the left handlebar. Then push the side stand down with your left foot while allowing the weight of the motorcycle to lean on you until the motorcycle is stable on the stand. You should put the bike on this stand before you dismount the bike
 
Starting, stopping and dismounting from your motorcycle:

Starting the engine
⦁    Ensure that your gear is in neutral mode.
⦁    Turn on the fuel tap (if your motorcycle has one.)
⦁    If your motorcycle has a choke, ensure that it is turned on or pulled all the way out. This is only necessary if you are starting a cold engine.
⦁    If the key has already been inserted in the ignition - turn it on.
⦁    Make sure the kill switch of the motorcycle is set to run.
⦁    Squeeze the motorcycle clutch lever with your left hand all the way to the grip or the rear brake a scooter.
⦁    The next steps depend on whether your motorcycle has a kick starter or an electric starter :
Kick starter (manual motorcycle)
Pull out the kick starter lever. Then place your right foot on the kick starter lever and firmly push down. If hard to start, repeat this step otherwise position your motorcycle on the side stand and use your body weight to kick start.
Electric starter
Press and release the starter button once the engine starts. You may need to apply throttle to give it some engine speed. Turn the choke off once the engine starts.
Stopping the engine
⦁    Close the throttle
⦁    Put your gear into neutral
⦁    Turn the ignition off and take the keys with you
⦁    Turn the fuel tap off
Dismounting from the motorcycle
You will be taught during your CBT and have to demonstrate how to safely dismount from your bike. It will involve being asked to bring the bike to a controlled stop using the brakes, putting the bike on the stand (if a motorcycle) and dismounting. You’ll also practice manoeuvring the bike whilst dismounted, using the handlebars and seat rail to control the bike as you walk.

Guide 3: Road Signs
Understanding road signs is vital to being safe and alert on the road. When you’re confident with the different signs you’ll see out and about your ride with more confidence and awareness. In this guide we cover some of most important (but not all) signs for new motorcyclists.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Signs that are red circles give orders that must be obeyed

- Signs that are blue circles (with no red border) give instructions that must be followed
 

-Signs that are triangular give warnings

All signs giving directions are rectangular but colours vary.
Motorways have blue backgrounds, main roads have green backgrounds, and local routes have white backgrounds with black borders
 
Road humps - these are designed to calm traffic

Give way to oncoming vehicles
Vehicles travelling in the direction of the black arrow have priority over those travelling the other way (red arrow).
 
Banned turn
In this case you must not make a right turn.
 
Keep left
This is commonly seen as you approach traffic islands. You must keep to the left-hand side of the sign as you pass it.
 
Road Narrowing
This sign will indicate which side of the road will narrow. This example shows that the road will narrow on the right hand side.
 
Side winds
This is of particular importance to motorcyclist, as side winds affect stability.
 
Parking solely for motorcycles

 
Slippery roads ahead

 
All vehicles must stop and give way before moving beyond the sign
There will also be a solid white line across the road.
 
No entry for any vehicles
 
Restricted parking
These signs show when and where parking is allowed on the road. In some locations parking may be banned at all times.
 
Red route - No stopping is allowed for any reason except busses, unless indicated by a sign during certain times
These roads may also be indicated by red lines at the side instead of the usual yellow lines.
 
Bus lane operational at all times shown
Motorcycles are not permitted to use bus lanes unless a motorcycle symbol is shown on the sign.

No U turns allowed

 
No motor vehicles allowed
 
Roundabout ahead

Take some time to go through the different types of signs, what they mean and where you might see them. Practice with a friend and when you feel confident move onto guide 4

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Guide 4: Roundabouts for Motorcyclists
Roundabouts are a common area for learner riders to struggle with on the CBT. With the right understanding of rules and best practice for roundabouts, your CBT training and road riding will be a lot less stressful and more safe. Read on for an introduction and top tips to roundabouts.
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Give way
At a roundabout, you MUST give way to oncoming traffic, which will always be approaching from the right.

 
Turning left
When approaching a roundabout, if you intend to take the first exit to the left:
⦁    On approach, check your mirrors.
⦁    Signal left
⦁    Check your left shoulder blind spot
⦁    Move to the left lane
⦁    Check for oncoming traffic from the right
⦁    Proceed onto the roundabout when safe, continue to signal left, stay to the left
⦁    As you pull onto the new road check your right shoulder for cars trying to overtake
⦁    Cancel signal, check mirrors and continue on the new road

 
Turning right
When approaching a roundabout, if you intend to take an exit to the right or go full circle:
⦁    On approach, check your mirrors.
⦁    Signal right
⦁    Check your right shoulder blind spot
⦁    Move to the right lane
⦁    Check for oncoming traffic from the right
⦁    Proceed onto the roundabout when safe, continue to signal right, stay to the right
⦁    As you pass the entrance to the road before your turning, switch your indicator to signal left and check your left shoulder
⦁    As you pull onto the new road check your left shoulder for cars trying to undertake
⦁    Cancel signal, check mirrors and continue on the new road
 
Travelling straight ahead
When approaching a roundabout, if you intend to follow the road ahead:
1. No signal is required on approach
2. Keep left (unless road markings state otherwise),
3. As you pass the road entrance before yours signal left as you approach your exit
⦁    As you pull onto the new road check your right shoulder for cars trying to overtake
⦁    Cancel signal, check mirrors and continue on the new road
This is just a basic introduction to how roundabouts work. They are one of the more challenging elements for new riders to master and hence a lot of time will spent around the whiteboard getting to grips with how to stay safe whilst riding on them. Read on for guide 5 of 6: traffic lights.

Guide 5: Understanding Traffic Lights
Traffic lights are an easy component of your CBT training yet highly misunderstood by many learner riders. With the right understanding of rules and best practice for traffic lights, your CBT training and road riding will be a lot less stressful and more safe. Read on for our top tips and the basic rules for traffic lights.
 
RED means ‘Stop’
Wait behind the stop line on the road.

 
RED AND YELLOW also means ‘Stop’
Wait behind the stop line and do not pass through or start until GREEN shows.

 
GREEN means you may go providing it is safe and clear to do so
Look in the direction of travel if you intend to turn left or right and take special care for any crossing pedestrians.
 
YELLOW means ‘Stop’ before the stop line
Drive ahead only if the yellow light appears after you have crossed the stop line or are so close to it that to pull up might cause an accident.

The order of traffic lights is as follows:
⦁    Red
⦁    Red and Yellow
⦁    Green
⦁    Yellow
⦁    Red
Traffic lights are straightforward in principle. The key learning for new riders is to understand the order and be able to anticipate changes in traffic conditions and potential dangers. Read on to complete the Pre CBT learning with our final guide.

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Guide 6: Road Riding Theory and Safety
As part of your CBT you will spend at least 2 hours training on the road with your instructor. This requires a good understanding of the Highway Code and rules of the road. Below are a few common questions and scenarios for best practice and staying safe on the roads.
What steps must you take before moving off?
⦁    Look around and make sure the road is clear by using your mirrors and shoulder checks.
⦁    Signal and take a final look around you before moving off
You are waiting to pull out of a junction when a vehicle approaching from the right signals left. What should you do?
Wait and be sure the vehicle is turning before pulling out. You should never assume that the vehicle will make the turn.
Why is overtaking a vehicle at a side junction is dangerous?
The vehicle in front may stop to allow a vehicle to turn out of the side road or turn into the side road suddenly. They are unlikely to be expecting the motorcycle to be overtaking them. Stay where you are.

Before making a turn what four steps you should follow?

Mirror-signal-lifesaver-manoeuver
⦁    See the position and movement of traffic behind you by checking your mirrors
⦁    Indicate using your left or right signal
⦁    Look over your shoulder one last time
⦁    Make the turn when a safe gap appears in traffic.
When turning right what is the correct movement?
Keep left of the middle of the road (or in a space marked for traffic turning right), allowing other vehicles to pass you.
You intend to turn left on an approaching junction but you are stuck behind a slow moving vehicle. What should you do?
Stay back and wait. Never undertake or overtake a vehicle just before you turn left. Always let the junction clear first to avoid any risk of collision.
A pedestrian is crossing a road into which you are turning.

What should you do?
They have priority so give way and wait for them to cross.
Why is it important to take extra precaution around turning busses and lorries?
They require more space to turn, and may even take up the entire width of the road when doing so.
Are bus lanes off limits for motorcycles?
No, The TFL road network (red routes) allows motorcycles on all of its routes but only in some bus lanes on other routes. A good way to confirm is to look for a motorcycle symbol on the sign at the start of the bus lane.
What are the distances you must keep behind other vehicles?
1. Leave a 2-second gap in good, dry conditions.
2. Leave a 4-second gap in wet weather.
You can count this gap using stationary objects, as the vehicle in front passes until you pass that same object.
Why should you keep a good distance from the vehicle ahead of you?
⦁    Your visibility increases to the vehicle in front you
⦁    Your visibility also increases to the traffic emerging from junctions.
⦁    Your response time increases in the event there are sudden changes ahead of you.
What are the three factors responsible for most motorcycle collisions?
⦁    Excessive speed
⦁    Poor road positioning
⦁    Not enough distance between the motorcycle and vehicle in front
Is filtering through traffic allowed for motorcycles?
Yes, filtering through stationary or slow moving traffic is legal. However, slow down and look out for hazards including:
⦁    Other oncoming vehicles that are turning, joining the traffic or changing lanes.
⦁    Traffic islands and narrowing of lanes
⦁    Pedestrians crossing the road
⦁    Cyclists
When can’t you filter through traffic?
⦁    You have to pass over a solid white line on the roads
⦁    You pass the wrong side of a “Keep left’ sign
⦁    Overtaking is illegal
⦁    There are zigzag lines on the approach to a pedestrian crossing
What are braking distances?
The time taken to slow down and stop. As your speed increases, your braking time also increases. This puts you at a much greater risk of failing to stop in time to avoid a collision.
What surfaces are slippery when wet and what should you do?
These surfaces include cobbles, granite setts, block paving and painted road markings are common in urban environments. Take precaution when riding over these by slowing down.
What does an oil or diesel spill look like on the road and what should you do?
An oil or diesel spill looks like a shiny or rainbow like sheen on the road. These can be extremely slippery and dangerous to motorcyclist, so avoid riding over them
What can you do to increase grip on wet roads?
⦁    Reducing your speed and braking smoothly helps to avoid skidding
⦁    Increasing your following distance from the vehicle in front stops sprays of road residue.
⦁    Roads are usually more slippery after an extended dry period, so take extra care.
⦁    Avoid painted road markings and drain covers if safe to do so as they become extra slippery
What should you do when faced with icy conditions?
Icy conditions especially black ice, which is not visible on the road is slippery and extremely dangerous to ride in. If possible leave your motorcycle at home.
Well done, you've made it to the end of the Pre CBT guides! We hope you've learned a few things and feel more prepared for your CBT training. 

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CBT motorcycle and moped training:

Who needs to take training - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The Highway Code - Guidance - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)