What are the best tips for completing your CBT?

Passing your motorcycle CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) isn’t about being perfect—it’s about showing you can ride safely, confidently, and with control. Here are the tips that actually make the biggest difference on the day:

Get the basics clear before you arrive

You don’t need to be an expert, but you do need to know:

• What each control does (clutch, throttle, front/rear brake, indicators)

• Which hand/foot operates what

• How gears work (especially finding neutral)

If you show up totally unfamiliar, you’ll waste time and feel overwhelmed.

Master slow control (this is where most people struggle)

Instructors care a LOT about your control at low speed:

• Use clutch control + a bit of throttle, not just throttle

• Keep your feet up as much as possible

• Look where you want to go (not down!)

• Stay relaxed—stiff arms make balance worse

If you can do a decent figure-of-eight and U-turn, you’re in a strong position.

Observation is everything

This is one of the biggest pass/fail factors.

Get into the habit of:

• Mirrors → signal → lifesaver (shoulder check) before moving off or turning

• Checking both ways at junctions

• Constant awareness of surroundings

Make your checks obvious—slight head movements aren’t enough; exaggerate them a bit.

Smooth braking and stopping

You’ll be assessed on stopping safely:

• Use both brakes, but be gentle at first

• Don’t grab the front brake suddenly

• Keep the bike upright when braking hard

• Practice controlled stops and emergency stops

Stay calm and listen to your instructor

• They’re not trying to catch you out—they want you to pass

• If you mess up once, it’s usually not a fail

• Ask questions if you’re unsure (seriously, it helps)

On-road riding tips (final part of CBT)

• Keep a safe following distance

• Stick to your lane position (don’t hug the curb)

• Don’t rush—ride at a steady, safe pace

• Follow instructions through your radio clearly

Common mistakes to avoid

• Forgetting lifesaver checks

• Stalling repeatedly (a couple is fine, constant stalls are not)

• Panic braking or grabbing controls

• Looking down instead of ahead

• Being too tense

Final mindset

Think: “safe and controlled,” not “fast and perfect.”If your instructor feels comfortable letting you ride on the road safely, you’ll pass.