So, you’ve decided to trade four wheels for two (or jump off the bicycle and onto something with an engine). First of all: excellent choice. There is nothing quite like the freedom of riding a motorcycle.

But as soon as you start looking into getting your licence in the UK, you hit a wall of acronyms. CBT? DAS? A1, A2, A? It feels like alphabet soup.

The biggest question most new riders ask us at 2Mototraining is: “Should I just do my CBT and ride a 125cc for a while, or should I jump straight into a Direct Access Scheme (DAS) to get my big bike licence?”

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer, but by the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which path is right for you.

The Contenders: What is CBT vs. DAS?

Before we compare them, let’s quickly break down what these two paths actually mean.

1. Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)

The CBT isn’t a pass/fail test; it’s a training day. It takes about 6 to 8 hours and teaches you the absolute basics of handling a bike and staying safe on the road.

• What it gives you: The right to ride up to a 125cc scooter or motorcycle (if you’re 17 or older).
• The catches: You must display L-plates, you cannot carry a pillion passenger, you cannot go on the motorway, and it expires after 2 years.

2. Direct Access Scheme (DAS)

If you are 24 or older (or 21+ via the progressive access route), the Direct Access Scheme is your fast track to a full, unrestricted Category A motorcycle licence. It involves intensive training followed by the DVSA Module 1 (off-road) and Module 2 (on-road) tests, taken on a large bike (at least 595cc and 54bhp).

• What it gives you: A full motorcycle licence. You can ride any bike, of any size, carry pillion passengers, ditch the L-plates, and ride on motorways.
• The catches: It requires more time, more money upfront, and you must pass a motorcycle theory test first.

Option A: The “CBT Only” Route (The Steady Climber)

Many riders choose to do their CBT, buy a used 125cc bike, and ride it for a year or two before touching a bigger machine.

The Pros:

• Low Initial Cost: A CBT is relatively inexpensive, and 125cc bikes are cheap to buy, tax, insure, and run on petrol.
• Low-Stakes Confidence: If you drop a lightweight 125cc bike in a car park, it’s a cheap mistake. It allows you to master clutch control, gear changes, and road positioning without the weight and power of a 600cc+ machine intimidating you.
• Commuter Friendly: If you just want to nip through city traffic to get to work, a 125cc on a CBT does the job perfectly.

The Cons:

• The 2-Year Clock: If you don’t upgrade your licence within two years, your CBT expires, and you have to take it again.
• Limitations: No motorways, no passengers, and dual carriageways can feel a bit vulnerable when a 40-tonne lorry is overtaking you because your bike tops out at 60 mph.

Option B: Jumping Straight to DAS (The Fast Track)

If you meet the age requirements and know you want a bigger bike eventually, you can do a combined course that takes you from zero to hero in less than a week. (Note: You still have to do a CBT on day one of a DAS course, but you immediately progress onto big bikes right after).

The Pros:

• One and Done: You do the training, pass the tests, and you are a fully licensed rider for life. No expiring certificates, no L-plates.
• Better Road Skills: DAS training is rigorous. You will be trained to a much higher standard of roadcraft than what you learn in a single day of CBT.
• Safer on Faster Roads: Big bikes have the acceleration and braking power to get you out of trouble on fast A-roads and motorways.

The Cons:

• Higher Upfront Cost: DAS courses require a significant investment for the training, bike hire, and test fees.
• Steep Learning Curve: Going from never riding a bike to manoeuvring a 200kg+ machine in just a few days can be mentally and physically exhausting.

Head vs. Heart: Which One Should You Choose?

To make it simple, let’s look at which category you fall into.

You should start with just a CBT if…

• You are under 24: (Unless you already have two years of experience on an A2 licence).
• You’ve never driven a car: If you don’t know how roads, roundabouts, and traffic flows work yet, trying to learn “road sense” and how to handle a heavy motorcycle at the same time is overwhelming.
• You’re on a tight budget: You just want cheap transport right now.
• You’re anxious: If the idea of a 600cc bike scares you, there is zero shame in spending six months building confidence on a 125cc.

You should jump straight to DAS if…

• You are 24+ and have driven a car for years: You already understand the road. You just need to learn how to operate the machine.
• You want to tour or carry passengers: If your dream is weekend road trips, riding with friends, or taking your partner on the back, a 125cc won’t cut it.
• You want to save money in the long run: If you know you’ll want a big bike eventually, doing a CBT now, buying a 125cc, selling it, and paying for DAS later usually costs more than just biting the bullet and doing DAS now.

The 2Mototraining Verdict

At 2Mototraining, we often recommend a hybrid approach for older riders who are totally new to biking but want a big licence.

Book your CBT first. See how you feel at the end of the day. If you felt comfortable and confident, we can immediately transition you onto a DAS course. If you felt a bit shaky, you can take a few weeks to practise on a 125cc before stepping up.

There is no “wrong” way to get into motorcycling -there is only your way.

Ready to start your two-wheeled journey? Get in touch with the team at 2Mototraining today, and we’ll help you map out the perfect route for your goals!