Motorcycle Safety & Driveability: motor bikes, new scooter, motorcycle maintenance

Question
Hi my car has just become wrote off, and im looking to buy a scooter, but im not sure what i can and can not ride. there is no bike picture on my licence and i dont know where to start and what to do? 50cc 125cc to i have to take a special test? please advise. many thanks Sharon

Answer
Hello Sharon.
Sorry to hear about your car, hopefully all is ok with passengers and yourself?
When did you pass your car test? New legislation means that now, any new rider must take CBT. (Compulsory Basic Training) It makes sense really as it makes sure that you can handle the basics of two wheeled driving before being let loose on the public highway. If you have a full car licence you may ride motorcycles up to 125cc and 11kW power output, with L plates on public roads but you MUST first satisfactorily complete a CBT course if you have not already done so.

(This extract is taken from http:www.cbtsouthampton.co.uk)

"This is a compulsory requirement for all motorcycle riders before they can ride on a public highway. It is designed to ensure that the riders have the ability to ride to a minimum standard of safety and competence
The days' training includes advice on all aspects of training, basic motorcycle maintenance and safety checks, learning riding skills on our spacious uncluttered off-road CBT sites and at least 2 hours of on-road training which is the minimum required by the Driving Standard Agency to comply with CBT legislation.
If you fail to reach the required standard for a CBT pass in one day we will extend your training free of charge."

I don't know where you are in the UK but any local dealer will provide the contact details of your nearest CBT centre. If you are buying a new scooter from a dealer, they will deliver the scooter to the CBT centre free of charge. (You MUST NOT carry a pillion passenger or pull a trailer until you have passed your test.)
If you are struggling to find a test centre, get back in touch and let me know whereabouts you are then I can look up your local test centre for you.

Good luck.

Andrew