Every new rider in the UK has to go through it. No exceptions, no workarounds. Before a single mile on a public road, CBT training must happen first. But what actually is it, and why does the government insist on it? Worth understanding properly. What Does CBT Stand For? CBT is short for Compulsory Basic Training. A structured, hands-on riding course built to give brand-new motorcyclists the core skills needed to ride safely out there on real UK roads. Here is the thing, thou

If you are buzzing around Bristol on L-plates, things are about to get a bit more serious. At Ride 53, we are all about that freedom on two wheels, but the government is currently shaking things up. They have launched a massive consultation called "Improving moped and motorcycle training" and it is basically the biggest rethink of biking laws in a generation. The headline? Those six little points on your license could now mean game over for your CBT. The "Six Points and You’r

Why This Matters Now Have you seen the news? The UK Government has launched its new transport strategy, Better Connected: A Strategy for Integrated Transport. Usually, these strategies are about as thrilling as watching paint dry on a moped fairing. But this one is different — especially if you ride. Motorcycles are finally being recognised as a real transport solution. They help: • Beat congestion in city centres • Connect rural and suburban areas • Cover the “first and last

Getting a motorcycle licence in the UK is not as complicated as it looks. Yes, there are stages involved, a few forms to sort, and some tests to pass. But break it down step by step, and it starts to feel very manageable. Whether you are 17 and just starting or coming back to riding after years away, this guide covers exactly what to expect. Why Getting Licensed Properly Matters Riding on public roads without the correct licence is illegal. Full stop. But beyond the legal sid

Most of us put more thought into a dentist than a riding school. A fast search, an open slot, and that's it. But that quick pick shapes your whole journey. It decides if you feel steady and sure on the bike, or shaky and swamped. Bristol offers many schools, yet they differ wildly. Knowing the right things to check turns a gamble into a smart choice. This guide walks you through picking a Bristol motorcycle school. It's for anyone who values true confidence, real safety, a

If you’re learning to ride in Bristol right now, you’ve got enough on your plate. Navigating the Cumberland Basin roundabout for the first time is its own kind of test. The last thing you need is the goalposts moving on you. So, let’s cut through the online chatter and garage rumours. Is the UK motorcycle test actually changing in 2026? And what does it mean for your journey to getting your licence? We’ve been digging through the latest DVSA publications and industry bullet