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Can You Ride An Electric Motorbike On A Cbt? All Info
Yes, you can ride certain electric motorbikes on a CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) certificate. The type of electric motorbike you can ride depends on its power output and top speed. For electric mopeds, yes, they absolutely need a CBT certificate, just like their petrol counterparts. This is the starting point for anyone wanting to ride a two-wheeled vehicle in the UK.
Riding an electric motorbike or scooter is a great way to travel. They are quiet, clean, and often cheap to run. But before you hit the road, you need the right training and licence. This guide tells you all about riding electric bikes with a CBT.
What a CBT Certificate Means
A CBT certificate is not a full driving licence. It is a basic training course. It lets you ride certain bikes on the road for two years. You must show L-plates (learner plates) on the bike. You cannot carry a passenger. You also cannot go on motorways.
Why a CBT is Needed
The CBT makes sure new riders have basic safety skills. It covers different parts:
* Part A: Talks about what you need to know.
* Part B: Shows you basic bike controls.
* Part C: Teaches you road safety.
* Part D: Practises riding on a road.
* Part E: Rides with an instructor on the road.
You must pass all parts. Then you get your CBT certificate. This is sometimes called an electric motorbike learner permit or motorcycle learner permit.
Electric Motorcycle CBT Power Limits: What Can You Ride?
The rules for electric motorbikes and petrol bikes are similar. The main limit is power. This affects what you can ride after your CBT.
Electric Mopeds (Category AM)
- Power: Up to 4 kW (kilowatts).
- Speed: Max speed of 28 mph (45 km/h).
- Licence: Provisional licence plus CBT.
- Info: These are like 50cc petrol mopeds. They are good for city travel. You can ride these at 16 years old. Do electric mopeds need CBT? Yes, they do.
Light Electric Motorbikes (Category A1 Equivalent)
- Power: Up to 11 kW.
- Speed: No specific top speed limit, but it must not be a high-performance bike.
- Licence: Provisional licence plus CBT.
- Info: These are like 125cc petrol motorbikes. They are often called light motorbikes. Many common electric motorbikes fall into this group. An 11kW electric motorbike CBT means you can ride these bikes.
It is vital to check the motorbike’s official power output. This is usually in the bike’s manual or on its paperwork. Do not guess. If your bike is more powerful, you need a different licence.
Motorcycle Categories CBT Electric: A Closer Look
The power output defines the vehicle category. Here’s how electric bikes fit into the UK licence system for CBT holders:
| Category | Description | Power Limit (Electric) | Age for CBT Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AM | Mopeds | Up to 4 kW | 16 | Max speed 28 mph. |
| A1 | Light Motorbikes | Up to 11 kW | 17 | Can ride with CBT and L-plates. |
So, if you have a provisional licence electric motorcycle and a CBT, you can ride bikes in the AM or A1 categories. Remember, the CBT is only valid for two years. You must take a full licence test or renew your CBT.
Getting Your Electric Motorbike Driving Licence UK
The journey starts with a provisional licence. Then you do your CBT. If you want to ride bigger or faster bikes, you need more tests.
Step 1: Provisional Licence
First, get your provisional driving licence. You can apply online or by post. You need to be at least 16 for a moped or 17 for a light motorbike. This is your provisional licence electric motorcycle starting point.
Step 2: Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)
Next, book your CBT course. Make sure the training school uses electric motorbikes if you want to learn on one. Some schools only have petrol bikes. The training takes one full day. It teaches you how to ride safely.
Step 3: What After CBT?
Once you have your CBT, you can ride on the road. You must display L-plates. You cannot carry a passenger. You cannot use motorways. The CBT certificate lasts for two years.
To ride without L-plates, carry a passenger, or use motorways, you need a full licence. This means passing more tests.
A1 Licence Electric Motorbike Requirements
If you want to ride an 11kW electric motorbike without L-plates, you need an A1 licence. You can take the A1 test after your CBT.
Steps for an A1 Licence:
- Theory Test: Pass the motorcycle theory test. This checks your knowledge of road rules and hazards.
- Module 1 (Off-Road): Pass the Module 1 test. This is done in a safe, off-road area. It tests your slow riding, U-turns, and emergency stops.
- Module 2 (On-Road): Pass the Module 2 test. This is a road ride with an examiner. It checks your riding skills in real traffic.
Once you pass these, you get your A1 licence. This allows you to ride any motorbike up to 11 kW (125cc equivalent) without L-plates. You can also carry a passenger and ride on motorways.
Diving Deeper into Motorcycle Categories and Power Restrictions
It is key to know the motorcycle categories CBT electric. These categories show the different types of motorbikes and the licence needed for them.
| Licence Category | Max Power (kW) | Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| AM | Up to 4 kW | 16 | Mopeds, max 28 mph. CBT required. |
| A1 | Up to 11 kW | 17 | Light motorcycles. CBT allows L-plate use. Full A1 allows no L-plates. |
| A2 | Up to 35 kW | 19 | Medium motorcycles. Not for CBT. |
| A (Full) | Unlimited | 24+ | Any motorcycle. Not for CBT. |
So, for CBT motorcycle power restrictions, the limit is 11 kW. Anything more powerful needs a full A2 or A licence.
The Process of CBT Electric Scooter Licence
Riding an electric scooter is much like riding an electric motorbike regarding CBT. An electric scooter CBT licence is the same as for a motorbike.
What to Expect on the Day:
- Gear Check: Your instructor will check your helmet, gloves, and jacket. You need suitable clothing.
- Classroom Talk: You will learn about road safety and how the bike works.
- Off-Road Practice: You will start on a quiet, safe area. You learn how to start, stop, turn, and do emergency stops. This builds your confidence.
- On-Road Riding: After you are safe off-road, you will ride on real roads with your instructor. They will follow you and give you instructions.
The course is not a test to pass or fail. It is training. But if the instructor feels you are not safe, they will not give you a certificate. They might ask you to do more training.
Key Aspects of Riding an Electric Motorbike on CBT
Riding an electric motorbike on a CBT means you are a learner. There are specific rules and tips to keep you safe.
L-Plates are a Must
You must display L-plates (red L on a white background) on both the front and back of your electric motorbike. This tells other drivers you are a learner. If you do not display them, you can get points on your licence.
No Passengers
With a CBT certificate, you cannot carry any passengers. This is a strict rule. You must wait until you have a full A1, A2, or A licence to carry someone.
Avoid Motorways
Motorways are not allowed for CBT riders. You must plan your routes to avoid them. This is because motorways are high-speed roads that need more experience.
Renewing Your CBT
Your CBT certificate is only valid for two years. Before it runs out, you must:
* Take a full motorcycle test (A1, A2, or A).
* Or, take the CBT course again to get a new certificate.
If your CBT expires, you cannot legally ride your electric motorbike until you renew it or get a full licence.
Benefits of Riding an Electric Motorbike with CBT
Even with limits, riding an electric motorbike on a CBT has many good points:
- Low Running Costs: Electric bikes are cheap to charge. They cost less than petrol bikes to run.
- Quiet and Clean: They make no noise and no exhaust fumes. This is better for the environment and for urban living.
- Easy to Ride: Many electric bikes are very easy to ride. They have no gears to change, just ‘twist and go’. This can be simpler for new riders.
- Learner-Friendly Power: The electric motorcycle CBT power limits mean you ride bikes with enough power for city roads but not too much for a new rider.
- Green Travel: You help the planet by choosing electric.
- Parking: Smaller electric bikes are often easier to park in busy areas.
Choosing Your Electric Motorbike for CBT
When picking an electric motorbike for your CBT use, remember the power limits.
- Look for bikes rated at 4 kW or less if you are 16.
- Look for bikes rated up to 11 kW if you are 17 or older.
Always check the specs carefully. Some bikes might look big but have low power, making them CBT legal. Other small bikes might have high power.
Insurance and Safety Gear
Before you ride, you need insurance. You also need the right safety gear.
Electric Motorbike Insurance
You must have at least third-party insurance. This covers damage to other people or their property. Get quotes from different companies. Make sure your policy covers you for riding with L-plates under a provisional licence.
Essential Safety Gear
- Helmet: Must be a legal, approved motorcycle helmet.
- Jacket: A proper motorcycle jacket, ideally with armour.
- Gloves: Motorcycle gloves protect your hands.
- Trousers: Strong, protective trousers, like motorcycle jeans or leathers.
- Boots: Sturdy boots that protect your ankles.
Riding safe means being seen and being protected. Do not skip on gear.
Moving Beyond CBT: Full Licence Progression
If you enjoy riding your electric motorbike and want more freedom, you can work towards a full licence.
A1 Licence
As discussed, this lets you ride 11kW electric motorbikes without L-plates and with a passenger. It is the first step for many.
A2 Licence
- Power: Up to 35 kW.
- Age: 19 years old.
- How to get it: You can take this test if you have an A1 licence for two years. Or, you can take Direct Access if you are 19.
This opens up more powerful electric motorbikes. Many modern electric bikes fall into this range.
A (Full Unrestricted) Licence
- Power: Any power, unlimited.
- Age: 24 years old. Or, 21 if you have held an A2 licence for two years (known as Progressive Access).
- How to get it: Direct Access or Progressive Access.
This is the top licence. It lets you ride any electric motorbike.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with CBT Electric Bikes
- Ignoring L-Plates: Always have them on.
- Carrying Passengers: Never do this until you have a full licence.
- Riding on Motorways: Plan your route to avoid them.
- Expired CBT: Do not ride if your CBT has run out.
- Incorrect Power: Do not ride a bike that is too powerful for your CBT. Check its power output.
- No Insurance/Gear: It is illegal and unsafe to ride without these.
Grasping the UK Electric Motorbike Driving Licence System
The electric motorbike driving licence UK system aims to keep riders safe. It moves you up in power as you gain experience. The CBT is the entry point. It is designed to give you basic skills.
For CBT electric scooter licence holders, the rules are the same. Scooters and motorbikes are treated similarly in terms of licence categories. The key is always the power output.
The Future of Electric Riding
Electric motorbikes are becoming very popular. As technology gets better, we will see more powerful and affordable options. The rules for CBT will stay the same, based on power limits. This means your CBT will always be useful for getting started.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long is a CBT certificate valid for riding an electric motorbike?
A1: A CBT certificate is valid for two years. You must renew it or pass a full motorcycle test before it expires.
Q2: Can I carry a passenger on an electric motorbike with a CBT?
A2: No, you cannot carry a passenger. You must have a full A1, A2, or A licence to do so.
Q3: What is the maximum power an electric motorbike can have for a CBT holder?
A3: For riders aged 17 and over, the maximum power is 11 kW. For 16-year-olds, it’s limited to 4 kW (mopeds, max 28 mph). These are the electric motorcycle CBT power limits.
Q4: Do I need L-plates on an electric motorbike with a CBT?
A4: Yes, you must display L-plates (red L on white background) on both the front and back of your electric motorbike.
Q5: Can I ride an electric moped at 16 with a provisional licence and CBT?
A5: Yes, if the electric moped has a power output of up to 4 kW and a top speed of 28 mph. This falls under the AM category. Do electric mopeds need CBT? Yes, they do.
Q6: Is an 11kW electric motorbike CBT a full licence?
A6: No, it is not a full licence. It means you can ride an 11kW electric motorbike as a learner with L-plates. To ride without L-plates and carry a passenger, you need a full A1 licence.
Q7: What is the difference between a CBT for an electric bike and a petrol bike?
A7: The CBT course content is the same. The main difference is the type of vehicle you train on. The rules for power limits are the same, just applied to electric power (kW) instead of engine size (cc).
Q8: Can I ride an electric motorbike on motorways with a CBT?
A8: No, you cannot ride on motorways with a CBT certificate. You must have a full motorcycle licence (A1, A2, or A).
Q9: What is an electric motorbike learner permit?
A9: An electric motorbike learner permit usually refers to the CBT certificate combined with a provisional driving licence. It allows you to learn to ride an electric motorbike.
Riding an electric motorbike with a CBT is a smart way to get started. It lets you enjoy the benefits of electric travel while learning the rules of the road. Always follow the rules, stay safe, and enjoy your journey.