Your Journey to Riding: Getting Started with WhateverWheels Yamaha

If you're new to the world of motorcycles or scooters, the thought of navigating UK licence laws can seem complicated. But don't worry! At WhateverWheels Yamaha, your premier Yamaha dealer in Lancashire, we're here to guide you through every step of getting on the road safely and legally with a vehicle from our extensive range.

If you've ever ridden a normal bicycle, you likely already possess the balance skills needed to get started on a motorbike or a scooter. One of the great benefits of riding a motorcycle or scooter is the ease of access for new riders. Unlike lengthy car driving lessons, it's often possible to go from having only your provisional licence and no experience one week, to being able to ride independently the next!

What You Need to Ride

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

All new users of motorcycles and scooters need to complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). This is regardless of the vehicle's engine capacity, as the licence restrictions depend on your age and the tests you pass.

Before you book your CBT, ensure you have your provisional driver's licence. If you're taking the training on your own vehicle, make sure it is insured and you have the appropriate riding clothing (helmet, gloves, padded clothing). Your instructor can and will stop you from taking part if you, your clothing, or your vehicle do not meet roadworthiness standards. Remember, it is illegal to ride your vehicle on the road before completing your CBT, so do not ride your bike to the training centre.

A CBT course contains five elements: Introduction, on-site instruction and training, on-site riding, instruction and training on the road, and riding on the road. There are no examinations, and the training is not based upon a testing environment. However, each element is taught in sequence, and the instructor will only move onto the next element once you have shown you have the necessary skill and knowledge. The on-road riding element must also be a minimum of two hours, so ensure you have enough fuel to finish the course.

On completion of your CBT, your instructor will give you a certificate (a copy of which should be sent to your insurers), which remains valid for two years. If you take your CBT on a twist-and-go vehicle, you are still entitled to ride geared bikes up to the maximum capacity allowed by your age and licence. Once your certificate has expired, you will need to take another CBT course, unless you have passed your Full Motorcycle Test. If you pass your driving test within the 2 years, the CBT certificate will not expire for scooters and motorcycles under 50cc (mopeds).

The cost of a CBT course can vary between training centres. We can recommend a number of training schools across the country. While you can take a CBT at the age of 16, it will affect what bike you are able to ride. If you are 16 years old, you are only able to ride a 50cc scooter or motorcycle. However, if you are aged 17 years and above, you are able to ride up to the maximum provisional capacity of 125cc.

Direct Access Scheme (DAS)

The Direct Access Scheme (DAS) allows riders to gain their full A2 or A motorcycle licence without having to progress through the lower licence categories, provided they meet the age requirements. This route is ideal for those who want to ride a more powerful motorcycle sooner.

A2 Licence via Direct Access (Aged 19 or over)

If you are 19 years old or over, you can take the Direct Access route to obtain your A2 Motorcycle Licence. This involves completing your CBT, passing your Motorcycle Theory Test, and then successfully passing both modules of the practical motorcycle test (Module 1 and Module 2) on a motorcycle with a minimum power output of 20kW and a maximum of 35kW.

A Licence via Direct Access (Aged 24 or over)

If you are 24 years old or over, you can take the Direct Access route to obtain your unrestricted A Motorcycle Licence. This involves completing your CBT, passing your Motorcycle Theory Test, and then successfully passing both modules of the practical motorcycle test (Module 1 and Module 2) on a motorcycle with a minimum power output of 50kW.

Now You've Got Your Bike!

Once you've got your Yamaha motorcycle or scooter, there are a few final steps to ensure you're ready to ride safely and legally:

• Registration: Here at WhateverWheels Yamaha, we will register and tax your bike for you. You'll receive a bike that's legally registered and already has a number number plate before it's released to you.
• Safety Equipment: On a bike, you make the decisions about your safety. While car drivers have mandatory seatbelts and airbags, motorcyclists choose their safety equipment. Currently, the only mandatory piece of kit required by law is an approved helmet, but we always recommend that all riders use full rider wear, including boots and gloves.
• Insurance: You will need to arrange insurance on your bike to coincide with the date that the bike is registered. Failure to do this could result in fines and further action from the DVLA.
• CBT Certificate: Once you have this (or a higher licence), you should be able to legally ride your bike within the UK!