So, you’ve decided to swap sitting in gridlocked Sussex traffic for the freedom of two wheels? Excellent choice. Whether you want a cheap, petrol-sipping commuter for the daily run into Brighton, or you’re taking your very first step toward a full, unrestricted motorcycle licence, your journey starts in exactly the same place: Compulsory Basic Training (CBT).
The CBT isn’t a high-stress, pass-or-fail driving test. Instead, it is a structured training day designed to give you the basic skills and road awareness needed to ride safely.
If you are looking to get your motorcycle journey started anywhere across Sussex, here is everything you need to know to get road-ready.
What Does the CBT Day Actually Involve?
At 2Mototraining, we structure the day into five distinct elements, moving at a pace that keeps things relaxed but thorough. Expect to spend around 6 to 8 hours with us, covering:
- Element A (Introduction): We’ll check your licence, talk through eye protection and safety clothing, and discuss the aims of the day.
- Element B (On-Site Training): You’ll get to know the machine. We’ll show you how the controls work, how to put the bike on its stand, and carry out basic maintenance checks.
- Element C (On-Site Riding): Taking to our private training yard, you’ll learn the fundamentals—moving off, stopping, changing gears, slow-speed balancing, slalom maneuvers, and emergency stops.
- Element D (On-Road Preparation): Before heading out onto the public highway, we sit down to discuss road positioning, hazard perception, roundabouts, and legal requirements.
- Element E (The On-Road Ride): The grand finale. You will head out onto the Sussex roads with an instructor via a radio link for a minimum of two hours. You’ll prove you can handle real-world traffic safely and confidently.
What Bikes Can You Ride in Sussex on a CBT?
The bike you can legally ride depends entirely on your age on the day of your training:
| Age | What You Can Ride | Top Speed (Approx) |
| 16 Years Old | Up to a 50cc moped (restricted to 28 mph) | 28 mph |
| 17+ Years Old | Up to a 125cc motorcycle or scooter (max 11kW/14.7bhp) | 60–70 mph |
When you book with 2Mototraining, you can choose to learn on an automatic scooter (twist-and-go) or a geared motorcycle. If you learn on an automatic, your certificate still legally allows you to ride a geared 125cc, though we always recommend training on the type of bike you actually intend to buy!
What Do I Need to Bring to My Sussex CBT?
To ensure your training day goes ahead legally and safely, you must turn up with a few essentials:
- Your UK Driving Licence: Whether it’s a pink photocard provisional or a full UK car licence, we must physically check it before you turn a wheel.
- Your National Insurance Number / Share Code: Just in case we need to do an online check of your entitlement.
- The Right Gear: Biking requires protection. You must wear sturdy trousers (heavy denim jeans as an absolute minimum—no tracksuits or shorts), a sturdy jacket, and boots that cover and protect your ankles (no trainers or canvas shoes). We can provide road-legal helmets and gloves on the day.
Navigating the Local Roads: The Sussex Advantage
Learning to ride in Sussex gives you a fantastic mix of environments to build your confidence. During your element E road ride, you won’t just be riding around a quiet estate.
Depending on which of our locations you train at, you’ll get real-world experience navigating busy urban layouts (perfect for practicing lane discipline and filtering), tricky coastal roundabouts on routes like the A259, and undulating country junctions. Mastering these varied roads under the watchful eye of a 2Mototraining instructor means that when you ride away with your certificate, you’ll feel genuinely prepared for whatever the local roads throw at you.
The Legal Rules of a CBT Certificate
Once you complete the day successfully, you’ll be handed your DL196 certificate. This comes with a few strict caveats:
- The 2-Year Clock: Your CBT certificate is valid for exactly two years. If you don’t upgrade to a full licence (A1, A2, or Direct Access) in that window, the certificate expires.
- The Restrictions: You must display full-size L-plates on the front and rear of your bike. You cannot carry a pillion passenger, and you cannot ride on motorways (such as the M23).
Ready to Start Your Two-Wheeled Adventure?
At 2Mototraining, we pride ourselves on delivering professional, patient, and highly engaging motorcycle training across Sussex. We don’t just teach you how to pass the day; we teach you how to love riding safely.
Our weekend and weekday slots fill up incredibly quickly, especially during the spring and summer. [Click here to view our availability and book your Sussex CBT online today!]
