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Big chicken
Derestricted Danger



Joined: 18 May 2015
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PostPosted: 21:48 - 18 May 2015    Post subject: Advice for a newbie Reply with quote
Hi guys,

I'm a new member, first time poster so be gentle...

I was thinking of having a foray into the world of motorcycles and was wondering where I should begin. I've read about cbt thingys etc but at 34, wonder if a bigger machine would be a better option. Would a 125 geared bike be better to cut my teeth on or would a larger engine be more practical and safer. I know, well, vaguely know there is more to the tests for a more powerful machine but just wondered if anyone had any helpful tips starting off...

Thanks guys,
big chicken
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Rogerborg
nimbA



Joined: 26 Oct 2010
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PostPosted: 22:08 - 18 May 2015    Post subject: Re: Advice for a newbie Reply with quote
Big chicken wrote:
I know, well, vaguely know there is more to the tests for a more powerful machine

Nope. It's the exact same test. It's actually easier on a bigger bike. Welcome to the wacky world of bike licensing.

The usual advice is to do your CBT (with it being Compulsory and all) and see how you enjoy it. If you're feeling confident, see if you can blag a go on one of the school's 'A' training bikes. That'll make up your mind in a hurry. Wink
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Biking is 1/20th as dangerous as horse riding.
GONE: HN125-8, LF-250B, GPz 305, GPZ 500S, Burgman 400 // RIDING: F650GS (800 twin), Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 500 AVL, Ninja 250R because racebike
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pinkyfloyd
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Joined: 20 Jul 2010
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PostPosted: 07:28 - 19 May 2015    Post subject: Re: Advice for a newbie Reply with quote
Rogerborg wrote:
Big chicken wrote:
I know, well, vaguely know there is more to the tests for a more powerful machine

Nope. It's the exact same test. It's actually easier on a bigger bike. Welcome to the wacky world of bike licensing.

The usual advice is to do your CBT (with it being Compulsory and all) and see how you enjoy it. If you're feeling confident, see if you can blag a go on one of the school's 'A' training bikes. That'll make up your mind in a hurry. Wink


Pretty much this.

As a first time onto bikes a CBT is a good taster into what riding a bike is like. It also gives you a good idea on what is needed for Module 1 of the motorcycle test. There are a lot of elements covered on a CBT that is also covered on the first test (slow control, U turn, controlled braking and E stop). It will also give you an idea at whether you actually want to become a biker. It is not for everyone.

As Rog said, some schools will allow you to have a play on their bigger bikes if you prove competent enough on the CBT and will give you an idea of how many days training they think you will need on the DAS course, should you wish to gain your licence.

Not drumming for business but if you live near Gosport I know a school that will look after you. Wink
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Hefty
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Joined: 25 Jun 2013
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PostPosted: 12:46 - 19 May 2015    Post subject: Re: Advice for a newbie Reply with quote
Big chicken wrote:
I know, well, vaguely know there is more to the tests for a more powerful machine..


Not really, if anything there's less to them because the bigger bikes with wider tyres etc are more stable, especially on mod 1's slow speed manoevres.. Sort of feels like they do a lot of the work for you.

First step is the CBT. Usually about £110 for the day.. A couple hours slow speed round cones & a couple hours on the road, more than enough to tell you if its for you or not. Otherwise theres a 'Get-On' scheme to give you a taster on a motorbike or scooter but I have no experience with it or know of anyone who has..?

https://www.geton.co.uk/free-motorbike-scooter-experience/

Good luck & welcome to BCF Thumbs Up
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Big chicken
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Joined: 18 May 2015
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PostPosted: 13:05 - 19 May 2015    Post subject: Reply with quote
Interesting. I thought, presumed actually (!) that the test for the bigger bikes was more difficult for some reason.

Ok, I've signed up at a local firm (Norwich - think Gosport is a bit far to travel but thanks anyway...!).

I've got a free taster on a 125cc geared bike this weekend. Will take that first step and see how I get on, then possibly see if it's for me.

I'm so excited!! Can't wait for this.

Thanks for the help guys.
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Rogerborg
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Joined: 26 Oct 2010
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PostPosted: 17:22 - 19 May 2015    Post subject: Reply with quote
Good plan. Just be aware that the controls are very different to a car and it'll take a while to get the hang of them. It is very much worth it though.
____________________
Biking is 1/20th as dangerous as horse riding.
GONE: HN125-8, LF-250B, GPz 305, GPZ 500S, Burgman 400 // RIDING: F650GS (800 twin), Royal Enfield Bullet Electra 500 AVL, Ninja 250R because racebike
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pompousporcup...
World Chat Champion



Joined: 15 Apr 2015
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PostPosted: 18:35 - 19 May 2015    Post subject: Reply with quote
Rogerborg wrote:
Good plan. Just be aware that the controls are very different to a car and it'll take a while to get the hang of them. It is very much worth it though.


This. I found it really unnatural at first having to keep the revs up whilst working the clutch, the opposite of what I spent years perfecting in a car.

More so with the smaller bikes I think. Larger cc bikes seem easier as you can usually get away with just a half handful of clutch.
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Taught2BCauti...
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Joined: 12 Jan 2012
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PostPosted: 18:59 - 19 May 2015    Post subject: Reply with quote
I had worked on many bikes in the past, but never rode one until my CBT. I think that knowing exactly how everything worked helped a bit - plus watching a few YouTube videos the day before.

Did my last CBT on a 600cc machine, and I found it a heck of a lot easier to ride than a 125.
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