Schools usually provide:
- Helmet (free)
- High-vis vest
- Gloves (sometimes)
- The training bike

You need to bring (or buy):
- Sturdy boots over the ankle (40-100 pounds, not trainers)
- Motorcycle gloves (30-80 pounds)
- Jeans minimum, ideally riding jeans with armour (50-200 pounds)
- Long-sleeve top - leather jacket or textile (100-300 pounds for entry level)
- Eye protection if no visor

Buy after passing CBT:
- Your own helmet (100-400 pounds, never buy second-hand)
- Full proper riding jacket and trousers
- Waterproofs - this is the UK

CBT is Compulsory Basic Training - a single day course, not a test. You cannot fail in the traditional sense - you simply continue until the instructor is satisfied.

The 5 elements:
1. Introduction and bike controls (30 min) - classroom theory
2. On-site riding (off road) (2-3 hours) - basic control in a yard
3. On-site safety briefing (30 min) - manoeuvring rules
4. On-road briefing (30 min) - what is about to happen
5. On-road riding (2 hours minimum) - real roads with instructor on radio

Total day: 7-9 hours typically. You ride a 125cc bike (or 50cc if 16). Once completed, you get a DL196 certificate valid for 2 years - you can ride a 125cc with L-plates from then.

1. Are you DVSA approved (ATB)? All legal CBT providers must be Approved Training Bodies.

2. What is the instructor-to-student ratio? 1:2 maximum on road by law. 1:1 is best.

3. What bike will I be on? Geared 125 (Honda CB125 etc) is hardest but most useful long-term.

4. What is the pass rate for full licence tests? Top schools are over 70% first-time pass.

5. Are bikes maintained and recent? Old, worn bikes make learning harder.

6. What happens if I do not complete CBT in one day? Some schools offer free continuation; others charge.

7. Do you offer Direct Access? At what price? Worth comparing - DAS schools tend to be more thorough.

8. Can I see the training site? Real schools welcome visitors. Avoid school car parks or supermarkets.

Tick the items above to see how prepared you are.