Riders from Edinburgh, the Lothians and throughout the Central belt are heading to Saltire Suzuki for their Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) – and it’s easy to see why. Saltire has a dedication to rider training that is difficult to match. Our small group of instructors have, between them, over 35 years of teaching experience and our new purpose-built training area offers the safest of environments for novices to learn the basics of motorcycle control.
Compulsory Basic Training was introduced in December 1990 with the aim of improving road safety for learner motorcyclists. Its success has guaranteed its longevity and it has changed little in over 20 years. At its heart are 4 key objectives:
The CBT course requires no prior knowledge or riding experience and is not a test, but rather a continuous assessment of your progress through to completion. It is made up of 5 main Elements (A to E), each having to be completed in turn. It is worthwhile noting that each and every individual can only develop the necessary skills and confidence required to complete each Element at their own pace and, for this reason, you can rest assured that there will be no time limit imposed on your course. Indeed, many courses have to be taught over a number of sessions.
The 5 Elements comprising the CBT course are:
Your Instructor will guide you through each Element of the course beginning with the Introduction where you will learn a little more about the aims of the course and its background. Important information on safety equipment and clothing is also given at this point. Element 2 is designed to introduce you to the motorcycle/moped and its controls. Information is given on how to perform daily checks along with some tips on basic maintenance. Safe handling of the machine is also covered which will allow you (with practice) to use the stands, wheel the machine and start/stop the engine. Element 3 is simply the next logic step where, through a set series of exercises, you will learn the basic skills needed to ride. From pulling away to stopping, slow riding to figure of eights and gear changing to stopping in the case of an emergency. All of the basic skills will be fully explained and demonstrated before allowing you time to master them for yourself. Observational techniques are also taught at this stage which will allow you to put your new-found skills to good use by practicing U turns and the approach to junctions in the safety of the training area. Element 4 follows, and is your opportunity to show off your encyclopaedic knowledge of the highway code and how it relates to motorcyclists. You will, of course, be coached on the knowledge, techniques and awareness necessary to move from the relative safety of the training area to the local roads but a little homework on the subject before you attend will give you a real head start. The final Element is, of course, conducted on-road and over a minimum period of two hours. Your Instructor will, as always, be on-hand to give constant feedback and guidance whenever necessary but in this final assessment it will be for you to demonstrate the 4 key objectives listed at the top of the page.
On successful completion, you will be issued with a CBT completion certificate (DL196) which will allow you to ride up to a 125cc motorcycle (max 11kw/14.6bhp) for a period of two years. L Plates must be displayed (front and rear) and you will be excluded from carrying pillion passengers or from riding on motorways. (At 16 years the category is limited to moped).
Keep your certificate in a safe place with your driving license. You may be asked to produce it by your Insurance company or by a Police officer. Your Driving Test Examiner will also ask to see it if you opt to train for a full motorcycle test.
