How do I get my motorcycle CBT, how much does it cost and how long does it take?
For anyone with at least a provisional licence, riding a motorbike can be far easier than you might think - Sun Online took a CBT and learned to ride in just one day
EVER watched a motorcyclist cruise down the road on a summer's day and wondered what it felt like?
For many of us regular car drivers, riding a motorbike or moped just seems like yet another set of skills - and another load of tests - to master.
But it's actually easier than you might think to get yourself road legal on two wheels.
Anyone over the age of 16 with at least a provisional licence can take a simple (CBT) course to get themselves prepped for the road in just one day.
Having never ridden a motorbike in my life, I decided to roll the dice and take a CBT to see if I could handle driving on two wheels.
Turning up at in St Albans, I was not-so-pleasantly surprised to discover I was the only rider in my course that was actually a total motorbike newbie - but I was quickly assured that the day is geared for bike freshers like myself.
“A first insurance policy for any learner will most likely be more expensive because experience is obviously a big influence on the cost of cover – however obviously the size of bike makes a huge difference also.
"New riders can combat higher premiums by expanding on their CBT with some further advanced training.
"They can also look to build up experience as a named rider on a more experienced rider's policy rather than taking out their own insurance.
“When deciding on the right bike, learner riders should choose a less sporty model.
“Another straightforward and sensible measure is to invest in bike security.
"A secure parking space, with added use of a bike cover, trusted lock, an accredited alarm, forensic protection system such as Carole Nash DNA+, immobiliser or ground anchor will all help to trim down the cost.”
Images of Jay from The Inbetweeners crashing Neil's bike through a door came to mind, but I could only hope my first take off would be a little more graceful.
Fortunately, despite my initial concerns, I was surprised at how easy it was to get a grasp of controlling the bike.
It didn't take long to feel comfortable out on the road, and being connected via radio with the instructor really makes you feel more confident.
After two hours of riding with Dane, I was pretty confident that I would be able to handle it on my own.
Having gone from a total novice to a confident learner in one full day, it was an amazing feeling being able drive on the road from a whole new perspective - and just in time for summer too.
Every CBT course involves a theory element on bike gear and road safety, an on-site practical to make sure you know how to operate your bike or moped, and a two-hour block of real-life riding.
The average training day costs about £120, which includes bike and helmet hire.
Once you have successfully completed a CBT, you can ride a motorbike up to 125cc if you are over 17, or a moped if you are over 16, on the road with L plates for up to two years before taking your motorbike licence test.