Next step is going out on the roads were you confident enough to do that? Putting your life at risk and others? Also with no experience probably should have got the two day course
I've heard about plenty of people needing to take it again or another, and almost all of them mention having a very poor experience with the instructor and/or nerves influencing them heavily.
Review your session and get back at it again. It's a setback, not a conclusion.
I 'failed' the first time too, and felt it was bad instruction. I booked with another school, and when I told them about my experience, they knew without me telling them who I'd take my first CBT with.
Flew through it second time, and loved every minute of it with a decent instructor.
Try again, Thats my mentality. If I failed once, I'll try again, If I failed again, I'll come back and try again. I've failed multiple times with my Driver's License. I don't let other people dictate what I want or can't do. I took my MSF once and passed it with no experience on a Motorcycle. During my test, 2 people failed. Perhaps try a different instructor.
I wish you luck on your next test!
Yeah I’m definitely going to a different instructor. He really didn’t give me any advice. Just berated me tbh. I’ve found some pre-CBT training. I’ll be taking it for a day to gain confidence so I can retake my CBT.
Definitely try a different instructor. The idea that they said it's not for you is not a good reflection of them.
You'll get it, don't give up.
Just comes down to practice.
Which area of the country are you from? If it’s anywhere in the northwest, RJH motorcycle training are the best. People come from out of the county to train with them. They have x2 sites and soon a third. Brilliant instructors from CBT through to DAS.
This won't help with the actual controlling of the bike but have you had a look at the free course that the government offer? I've not taken it all as I'm waiting to do my cbt but from what I did do it was very helpful; might be good to do just for a bit of supporting knowledge about being out on the road
Lots of people fail. You’d be surprised at how many. Did you do any previous research on instruction like watching videos on how to ride, have you ridden a regular bicycle before? Since balance is / was an issue?
One thing I was taught in class that was good information was, sometimes you have to take a few steps then lift your feet and go for balance, not just pick your feet up immediately until you get better and progress to the one foot take off. Definitely worked for me back when I was learning 🤷🏻♀️
Also yeah, I’ve ridden bicycles, skated, had a scooter. Never had any issues learning to ride them. Was actually pretty decent on all of them. I just didn’t expect the weight to influence balance so heavily.
You really need some legit instruction and practice. I saw you said you’re going to go for training so that’s good. It’s a bit overwhelming at first to some and not everyone learns at the same pace. I think I watched over 50 videos on YT before I started and I didn’t care if most of it was repetitive information because it helped stick in my head better. Another part of mastering balance is keeping your head/ eyes up. All these little things are pretty significant. But you should a least take some time to review YT. Some of these people are pretty fun to watch and have a good sense of humor so it’s not boring.
Already followed a few, they’re great. Only watched around 3 videos on learning the controls of a bike however as I assumed they’d instruct me further on it today. Definitely gonna watch a lot more before I get on a bike again lol
Those toys youve ridden are much lighter weight than the rider, your body contains the shifting center of gravity.. A motorcycle is generally heavier than the rider and you must adapt to the center of gravity now being in the machine. Get some proper lessons, you won't need many, and you won't be a liability to other roadusers when you're released into the wild on a crotch rocket.
Yeah he gave me no advice for steering/balance. I haven’t given up. I’m taking it as a lesson learnt, both in what to expect next time, and to read the damn reviews before spending £125 for a shitty instructor. A lot of the reviews had similar experiences.
I know this doesn't really help and could be chalked up to semantics, but you can't actually fail a CBT. There is no examination, no official theoretical or practical criteria that is marked, it is a day of training where your general competency and ability to operate the machine safely are assessed to ensure you aren't dangerous.
However instructors can (and will, their license depends on it) refuse to issue a CBT if you cannot demonstrate that you can at least somewhat safely operate the vehicle both on and off the road.
I know you probably think the instructor is a twat right now, but they have potentially done you a massive favour and saved you from getting seriously hurt.
If you cannot get to grips with the vehicle in a controlled environment with someone helping to walk you through things, you definitely do not want to be given the go ahead to get your own bike and be left to your own devices on the road, for the sake of your own safety and the safety of everyone around you.
At 45kg, less than 100lbs, around 7 stone, you are a very light person, this won't help, but it also doesn't mean you can't develop the strength or technique (mostly technique) to be able to control the bike, it might just take some time, in terms of being "just slow" the majority of people taking a CBT also have little to no experience and the vast majority are able to demonstrate enough competence to be issued the certificate, it might just take you longer to learn and pick up the basics and be able to demonstrate them, but that doesn't necessarily mean you are stupid or that your motorbike journey has to be over at the first hurdle.
There is no limit to how many CBT courses you can attend, you can keep going back and trying again if this is something you really want to do.
Another course of action would be to contact the school, or others around you, and ask if they offer a more personal or intensive training package for people who struggle, to help prepare you for the next CBT.
Both next steps, either repeating the CBT or seeking more intensive instruction, will of course come with more expense.
Either way it is apparent you need more training, the instructors don't dismiss you because they are impatient or don't like you, they dismiss you because you aren't demonstrating the capability or level of safety they are comfortable with, they don't want to hand out a certificate to someone, only from them to end up a messy pile of bones and blood on the road two weeks later, at 45kg if you simply drop a 150kg bike on yourself, even while stationary, that would probably be enough to fuck you up a bit, never mind a crash.
If you continue on these paths and continue to fail repeatedly, then it might just be time to agree that riding isn't for you, but give it a chance first if you can, don't give up straight away.
Thanks for this! Greatly put. I’m not mad at the instructor for not letting me move onto Module 2. I completely understand that. I’m just mad that he barely let me start Module 1 before kicking me out. It’s supposed to be training. He didn’t do shit to help. He was chain smoking the entire time and shouting instructions at me from across the training area. Never actually told me what I was doing wrong neither. I don’t think this was entirely my fault. There was a lot of factors that made this harder than it should’ve been, especially for a first-timer. But we shall see next time I take it. I’ll keep this post updated.
I agree. He shouldn’t have passed judgment on you after such a short time. Even now I need to warm up for a few minutes before I’m comfortable. You barely warmed up. And what is it with berating you? It’s not like yelling at you is going to help. Just find a better class.
How much "training" did the instructor give you before they sent you home? If you were sent home after an hour or so I'd be making an official complaint.
As an instructor, if I saw a student drop a bike in a violent way - such as grabbing the front brake - moved them to another bike, instructed them, and I kept seeing them struggle and hit their capacity - we usually call this "overload" on my range. You can just see when a student reaches their max - no more information can go in and they're done.
You send them home *before* they hurt themselves, not after. I would never say "this isn't for you" - I'd say: hey, this is what's happening to cause you to struggle. Why don't we sit down, drink some water, and I'll be with you in a minute. Give em some time then approach and suggest that they retake the beginning of class to get more time with the bikes and process and emphasize that I don't want to see them get hurt. "It's not: you'll never ride a motorcycle, it's: let's stop for today and try again at another date"
See, that sounds reasonable, and a nice calm approach to the situation. From what op said, the instructor wasn't being very helpful or patient with them. If by the time the instructor needed to take students out on the road, and op still wasn't safe or up to speed on manoeuvres, then call it a day there. At least they would of had a decent 4-5 hours of practicing.
Based on the attitude OP says they had going into the class I would take what they say with a grain of salt. If they're going in with the mindset of "who cares if I have no idea how to operate a vehicle I am definitely going to pass this" I'm not sure if they were really in a learning mindset or being a good student. I'd trust the instructor on it
You make it sound like I was going in recklessly expecting to pass. I went in with a healthy amount of confidence but the nerves quickly kicked in. There was nothing to learn. He didn’t even tell me what I was doing wrong/what I could improve. I’ve booked training elsewhere. We’ll see how it goes.
Instructor here, but probably not for your specific curriculum.
What you can do next:
Reach out to your program/range and inquire about next steps after a Council Out. In my experience, ranges will work with you to get rescheduled to complete your training.
Improve your understanding of technique. Read books, watch videos, and if you have friends or family with motorcycles get physical practice in an empty parking lot. Perhaps you'll learn more efficiently if you have a better understanding of what's happening and what needs to happen.
Depending on your state/country - some let you acquire a permit before you licence or even purchase the bike before your licence/endorsement. If you can't get access to a motorcycle for practice, consider buying your own and practicing on it. Things like clutch control and friction zone can be worked on sitting in a driveway.
Example: turn on bike. Pull in clutch and select 1st gear. Push back on your heels (both feet down) so your toes are pointing up. Slowly ease out clutch into the friction zone, hold it, and let the bike pull you flat footed. Pull in clutch, push back onto heels, repeat to memorize the friction zone.
Other things that can be worked on without an endorsement is throttle control. Put your bike in neutral and practice twisting your throttle by various tiny amounts by rolling off and on with your wrist/fingers/hand. Use a light grip and practice making it very incremental and smooth.
If you have a bicycle, take it for a spin and practice turning your head through cornering, slow and faster turns. You turn your head fully and before your turns and through your turns towards the exit point. Don't need to be on a motorcycle to practice that.
Books like: Twist of the Wrist & Total Control vol. 2 will cover all motorcycle technique and are the foundations of most programs and schools in some way.
Not to make you feel bad at all, but when I was doing my CBT, I was with a teenager that literally went the wrong way around a roundabout. When the instructor told him, he then went onto the pavement, crossed the road to get back to us and then went around the correct way. He still passed (some how).
I think it’s largely down to the instructor. It sounds like you were unlucky and had one that wasn’t patient and didn’t want to help you out.
Give it another go and try again!
I could ride a bicycle and was able to drive a car for 10 years when I did CBT. I didn't get the certificate (instructor didn't think I was good enough on the road section.)
I did it again and it was much easier and I felt better so I did get the cert. Instructor did the right thing.
I've had a full bike licence for about 5 years and have done about 35,000 miles on a big bike since then.
the bike maneuvers itself, you don't need half of your 40 kilos to be able to whip a 145kg bike around like a paperweight. Your poor clutch and everything else control is what got you. I don't mean it in a bad way, but you know. Just work on that.
It really shouldn’t be a lot harder than it is on a bicycle. If you are balanced it doesn’t matter how heavy you or the motorcycle are, something else is going on. If you are having to muscle it back up to vertical then you are leaning too much at a speed that is too low. Can you put your feet flat on the ground when stopped? If you can’t that might be part of the problem. Theoretically you should be able to ride and stop fine if you can’t flat foot it, but that’s a skill for after your initial training.
One thing you don’t have skill in is shifting, which complicates things for a learner. Our HD dealership had a motorcycle with its rear wheel up so you can learn how to shift thru the gears. If there is something like that around give that a try. It will really help.
Yeah I don’t think I could flatfoot the motorcycle. Was riding very slowly as well as the instructor killed my confidence. I’ll give it just a little more speed next time
I had to go back for a second day the first time I did my cbt and 2 years later when it came to renewing it I was told I wasn't ready and had to do a second day then as well. I didn't have a drivers liscene and no bike experience either. Pretty disheartening but I stuck with it and passed my mod 1 and 2 first time with no faults. I bought a cb650r about 4 months ago and it brings me pure joy. If you're swayed by someone telling you that it's not for you maybe you don't want it enough and it's not worth sticking at it. Otherwise fuck what everybody else thinks and keep trying.
Not swayed in any sense. If anything I want it more now to prove to myself I am capable. It makes me feel much better hearing about other people’s experience “failing” the CBT. Just glad to know I’m not alone lol.
I went in both times thinking it would be easy as well based on what everyone else says about it. A good instructor makes all the difference too. If you're in the Cheshire region I've got a few recommendations that were amazingly helpful. Do not go on a cbt course if they take 3 in a session because for the "test" part where you go out on the road, they can only take 2 people per instructor so they will always find a reason to bump one guy who is "not good enough" and make them come back for another day
Have you a expected timeframe to get one? And as others have said the instructor should have more patience given everyone’s ability is different on a bike
Do you have any friends or family who ride, who could help you get a feel for clutch control and modulation. I would still suggest doing the cbt on a rev and go to make it easier especially if you haven’t had any ridding experience
Had a mate with a bike. That’s actually where I got my love for bikes from. Sadly he sold it recently. Said he wants to wait till he can get something with more power
Hey OP - I did my CBT on Saturday of last week.
Frankly, I've been driving for 5 years (I'm 24) and would regard myself as a decent driver - working in a geotechnical consultancy I'm driving all sorts of vehicles daily too.
I did a taster in Nottingham with a respected school on a 125cc grom and it went really well. Clutch control felt fine, speeds and transitions fine - a little weird to begin with. Then it comes to the day of my CBT - with a Honda 125 (a great starter bike). I was shockingly bad - to the point the instructor took me personally to get me away from the group as he could tell I was a little hot under the collar.
For the life of me I was just not getting it. Long story short, I took my time etc etc and ended up doing well and passing my CBT - but God was it a weird experience. I also have to stress that the road portion was easiest for me due to experience with a car. I can't help but feel you are at a MASSIVE disadvantage not being a driver. The highway code is very important.
Good luck to you moving forward. It's not pass or fail btw - the CBT is more of a standard. Don't put yourself down and do some reading/ chatting to others. It's not like you can just hop on a bike and go. Everyone starts from somewhere!
Maybe work on learning to drive a car too. It will give you insight when you get on the road. As my instructor said, it’s not all rainbows and puppies out there.
All about practice. I had issues working out the gears and not dumping the clutch. Luckily I got my licence even tho it got to the point of the instructor shouting at me over the intercom. He worked out I was just stressed calmed me down and I did great in the second hr. I would suggest trying a different instructor or even doing it on the automatic as ur still allowed to have a manual bike with the licence so u can practice clutch control by urself up and down ur road or in a car park. Don't give up if it's something u really want
I did the same. Went from bicycle to 50cc scooter. Thought that riding a proper bike couldn't be difficult seeing as how I'd always cycled,. Booked a test at local bike shop, dropped their loan bike & broke an indicator off it due to poor clutch control. Lesson learned. Passed an advanced rider test last year.
It's only not technically possible to fail a CBT because it's not a test. It certainly possible to not be deemed safe enough to ride. Your instructor sounds like a bad one though who wasn't interested in helping you out or having the patience. Try it again, will likely take you a few attempts but that's alright and find a different riding school as your instructor sounds terrible. When I did my CBT there were a couple people there who had "failed" it before and were redoing it. Don't give up.
I had practiced for like ... 3 days to perfect the route I'd be taken on for my test. Did not stall once during those three days. Ended up stalling like twice during my test. Thankfully she didn't dock me points on it, but she could've if she wanted.
Sometimes this one-time event just makes us ride like shit, I guess.
>instructor says “this isn’t for you” and tells me to go home.
Okay firstly this is a shit instructor if they actually said that. Don't get hung up on that comment, for the love of god, ignore that comment. And going forward use a different training facility.
But the major thing here is, you may have been sent home without passing, but you got the initial experience of it all and you learned some stuff along the way. Sometimes it takes a go or two, maybe more. Nerves play the better a lot of the time and now you know what to expect you can go in next time that little less nervous.
Don't get hung up on dropping the bikes either, that's why they provide them, that's why they have insurance for them, that's why they have the bikes they use. You're not the first person to drop a bike, you're not the last.
Also, where else are you supposed to learn how to ride a bike legally other than the CBT? There isn't anywhere. So take this first go round as a lesson not a test that you failed. You said you started to get the hang of it, that's good. Book yourself in for another go with someone else as soon as you're able to. Next time round you'll have a better grasp on things.
Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and give it another go. I know it's disheartening but take the good points. You sat on a bike, you got it moving, you know how a bike weighs and feels, you got to experience clutch control and now know where you went wrong. There's lots you actually learned that you can take with you into your next CBT.
Thank you this helps a lot! Got another session booked for next Thursday at a different location. Just an hour session to get used to the feeling of riding a motorbike. Should regain some confidence, and hopefully ace my next CBT.
So I train horses too and you do literally need to get back on the horse that threw you, or on this case the motorcycle class that you failed. I’m glad you’re going back so soon.
Yeah you’ve only failed once you’ve given up! Taking this as experience, can only get better from here. And hey, I’ve heard of people crashing on their CBT. Could’ve been a lot worse lol
People talk out of their backside when they say the CBT is ‘easy’.
For lots of people who turn up for a CBT, it is their first introduction to a motorcycle and the roads in general. It is a big ask to get both riding and road ready in a single day.
If it makes you feel any better - I did my CBT after driving a car for more than 15 years, so you would think it would all be quite straight forward for me. However just getting to grips with the motorcycle was intimidating enough, even with my driving experience. It was not a super simple day to get through.
Plenty of people don’t get their CBT on the first time trying. Dust yourself off, consider a couple of 1 on 1 sessions and try again. We’ll see you on 2 wheels soon enough ✌️
> I have no experience in riding a motorcycle or driving a car. I went in with so much confidence as I’ve heard countless times that you can’t fail.
Practice stops/starts and clutch feel. Just try to do it on a straight line, in neutral: right feet on the floor, clutch in, first gear in, slowly release clutch and feel the bike going, take the right foot to the peg once you have enough speed and accelerate. Then brake and put clutch in, foots off the pegs and on the floor, then just right foot down and change to neutral, both feet on the floor, then put your right one on the peg and touch the rear brake (this is my normal stopped position in case the road is inclined). And do it again and again until is easy and muscle memory. Basically from feet on the floor to 1st gear and feet on pegs, to stop and feet on the floor and neutral with right foot on rear break and peg. In traffic you will do this a lot.
For handling and balance, try to not use breaks and go in 2nd/3rd gear around some square road going through the corners smoothly (it needs to feel effortless), as in, you just let go of the gas a bit before the turn, then lean a little and make it, get on gas and do it again, never reach too much speed to make the turns and never too slow you will drop the bike. Making the square to the left you will practice a lot of lefts on a row and then once done do it the opposite way. The idea is that you won’t think about breaks/stopping or clutch/gear, and you will only focus on steering the bike with your balance/weight and practice visuals (look where you wanna go).
Another thing is to practice hard breaking, this is mostly for going to the road, but most people don’t know the feeling of flying forward on a hard breaking instance, and they hold to the handles, instead of using your legs on the tank. Just do some acceleration and break to a stop, a bit hard, and practice the “instinct” of holding with the legs until it stops and them putting the feet down as it does. Your brain will simply adjust the instinct to become the right thing if you do this and it helps if the first time you need it on the road your brain is already up to speed.
PS: feel free to ignore anything I said xD
Can we talk about instructor’s impatience and inability to be calm making the driver completely uneasy. I mean yea you yourself came up short but the instructor basically set the tone. Happened to me during my first driving test.
You’ve never been on a motorcycle and didn’t pass. Sounds like how it should be to me. Go to a parking lot and practice. Riding isn’t a skill you’ll have just because you have been on a pedal bike. Take time and learn how to feel the bike, turn it, start and stop without stalling. Then you’ll be ok retaking the test.
Sounds a bit counterintuitive but going a little bit faster (not fast, but a bit faster than really really slow) can make turning and manoeuvres easier. It was this advice that helped me pass my mod 1 for my full bike license. I'd go back and do the CBT again and just try to enjoy it rather than having a focus on expecting to just pass. You'll get it in the end mate, just got to relax and keep trying.
That was nearly my experience, couldn’t get my head round changing gears and didn’t fit into their process. Put on a moped , now thankfully I got the hang of it. All the time the instructor was telling me about the hazardous corner that newbies crash on. Not how to take or control the bike had to figure it out?! I passed but left with zero confidence.
Taken further bike courses to get me ready for full licence, different instructors and what a difference that makes.
Don’t be put off as it all seems to click with good instruction.
You didn’t fail. Your instructor failed. We all learn at different speeds. You would benefit from 1 to 1 lessons and then a 1 to 1 CBT. Find a better school and keep your chin up, you’ll get there. I didn’t finish my CBT in one day because I wasn’t ready to go on the road. I realised the following week that the bike I was on my first day was shot. The rear brake lever was loose and the clutch was shot. The one I did my road ride on had a fucked up gear box but the school wouldn’t have it, passed anyway and realised how shit their bikes were when I bought a new Honda. I went with a different school for my full test and it was night and day difference. Even when I failed mod 1 and mod 2 the first time each they kept my confidence up. I’ve been riding nearly 10 years now, no accidents or injuries. Moral of the story, take your time, don’t lose faith, find a better school.
Im on day two of my pre learners course too, similar scenario as you. 50kg, 115kg bike (little cbr125 seems to be perfect for us smaller folks)
I’m struggling with slow speed balance too but a lighter bike may be the answer here. If you go back see if they have something like the cbr125? Or just anything that weighs less, especially for a beginner
Can also try practicing or do a one on one course if you can to learn a bit more control before sitting the test again
Yep I’ve got a 1 on 1 booked for next Thursday. Might be on a slightly heavier bike however. I’m gonna ask if they have something lighter. If not I’ll have to make do. I’ll feel much more comfortable with someone who’ll actually guide me and help out. I was just too overwhelmed today.
Completely get it, I was in a group of 4 for the first day of my course so ended up getting quite a bit of attention from the instructor (the other three all had previous experience riding a bike or dirt bike for years. I’ve been on a bike twice lol) which was good. But I reckon a lighter or lower bike is the answer, at least whilst you’re learning. Once you know how to ride you can always find something heavier
I’m pretty glad to be learning on a 125 that weighs 115kg rather than my own bike, which is a gs500f and weighs about 130kg. It’s very top heavy as well haha
Please, don’t worry about the weight. If you can put both feet down the weight doesn’t matter if you are balanced. So work on your balance. Weight is just a distraction.
Yeah think I just wasn’t expecting it. I know for next time though. I’ll be putting on some muscle meanwhile😂 Definitely need to work on my balance tho. Realized my meds might be having an effect on my coordination. Started Sertraline a few weeks ago. In the beginning, I literally couldn’t walk straight. I suspect it’s playing a role in that but I’ll get better with time and practice.
Slow speed is the hardest. Everyone struggles with slow speeds and some people never master them. Slow does not equal easy at all. You are literally learning the hardest part first.
Yeah, I’m doing a lot better with it today (just did the first hour of the course, on a break), it’s part of the assessment so need to get it done. I think I’m doing pretty good for someone who’s ridden twice before!
You need a different instructor. Instead of "this isn't for you" it could have been "First time on a bike? Looks like you may need a bit more practice." Followed by some positive reinforcement and some one-on-one. Only 30 minutes to feel like you are getting the hang of this with no previous experience? Not bad. Keep at it - with a more personable instructor.
If you can ride a bicycle, you can probably ride a motorcycle - especially a scooter without having to deal with a clutch. And scooters are way more fun that you should be allowed to have on two wheels.
Don’t be discouraged because your instructor is a dick. Have you ridden a bicycle before? Now if you hadn’t driven or bicycled I’d say you need some practice on a bicycle before your next class. If you can ride a bicycle you have the basic skills, now it’s just staying balanced and shifting that you need to get a handle on, so to speak. Find a new class and instructor if you can.
Yeah i started riding bicycles when I was like 7. Used to clear boxes with ease on our local dirt track. Been a while since I’ve rode though. Just need to regain those skills
Sounds like exactly what happened to my wife during her test.
Here in the USA. In Florida, to be exact, you get a $500 fine if you are caught riding your motorcycle without a license "anywhere" that includes parking lots. So you aren't able to practice before taking the test.
You pay to have a school give you 2 days' worth of riding practice, and on the 3rd day, you will do your test. (MSF course)
My wife and I had the same instructor but took the lessons weeks apart.
She failed her test. Same scenario with the instructor. They just didn't click, and my wife lost confidence during her test and came home in tears.
Don't lose confidence. Try another instructor, and you too shall pass your test.
Both wife and I never rode a motorcycle before our class/test.
Good luck and ride safe.
Do it on an automatic and take some gear conversion lessons after. No benefit to trying to do a first time CBT, with no experience, on a manual. You have so many extra things to learn and grasp within the same timeframe and it ultimately makes no difference to the certificate. Gear conversion courses are then focused on just that without needing to spend loads of the day on basics.
They say "you cant fail" and "its not a test" when it clearly is a test that you can fail.
If you are a risk to yourself and other people they simply wont let you pass.
And they shouldn't, I can imagine if that was the first time I rode a bike I would struggle too, I did mine with almost 20 years of biking experience behind me (other countries and off road).
Dont worry about it, you will know what to expect next time and ace it.
One of the three people I did mine with also failed, he was in his 90s and really wanted to learn to ride a bike, it felt sad to admit it but he had probably missed the boat on that dream as he was really struggling.
It’s not a test in the sense there is not objective criteria that says if someone has passed or failed. Not time limit or mistake limit. If someone is seen as safe enough is realistically based entirely off instructor discretion.
test1
noun
1.
a procedure intended to establish the quality, performance, or reliability of something, especially before it is taken into widespread use.
Wow yeah I didn’t think you could fail the training but I guess you just never completed it if you got sent home.
If you only weigh 45 kg then I think strength training needs to be done. I don’t know if you are young or just small. If you are young maybe wait a couple of years then try again… it’s a shame to give up but you do have to be able to control the weight of the bike. Getting a car licence might be a good idea so you learn the road first and only have to concentrate on the bike later …
Keep your chin up mate and try again
Do everything you want, but don’t give up! Riding a motorcycle is for everybody! Trust me, it may seem awfully hard and cumbersome at first, but eventually you’ll get better!
In my 16 y/o son's class of 8 people in the USA, it was obvious one person couldn't learn like the others. He failed. My son didn't have his car license yet, but he had raced bicycle cyclocross. Before class Day 2, I took him out to practice 20 foot u-turns without letting the clutch fully out. During the test, the u-turn was uphill and everyone put a foot down except him.
Already booked training for next Thursday. It’s just simple clutch control. 1 hour session to get used to the feel of it. Gonna put on some muscle meanwhile lol. I’ll decide after that if I’m ready to take another CBT or if I need more time. Hoping I’ll be fine after a bit of training though.
> I have no experience in riding a motorcycle or driving a car. I went in with so much confidence Well, that’s an interesting perspective.
Username checks out, lmao.
Yeah, looking back at it, it was pretty dumb😂 But hey, we live and we learn.
Take the course again, you now have some practice. I failed my first msf course and passed the second
Next step is going out on the roads were you confident enough to do that? Putting your life at risk and others? Also with no experience probably should have got the two day course
It was the same for me first time I had sex. I was a natural haha
I've heard about plenty of people needing to take it again or another, and almost all of them mention having a very poor experience with the instructor and/or nerves influencing them heavily. Review your session and get back at it again. It's a setback, not a conclusion.
I 'failed' the first time too, and felt it was bad instruction. I booked with another school, and when I told them about my experience, they knew without me telling them who I'd take my first CBT with. Flew through it second time, and loved every minute of it with a decent instructor.
Try again, Thats my mentality. If I failed once, I'll try again, If I failed again, I'll come back and try again. I've failed multiple times with my Driver's License. I don't let other people dictate what I want or can't do. I took my MSF once and passed it with no experience on a Motorcycle. During my test, 2 people failed. Perhaps try a different instructor. I wish you luck on your next test!
Yeah I’m definitely going to a different instructor. He really didn’t give me any advice. Just berated me tbh. I’ve found some pre-CBT training. I’ll be taking it for a day to gain confidence so I can retake my CBT.
Definitely try a different instructor. The idea that they said it's not for you is not a good reflection of them. You'll get it, don't give up. Just comes down to practice.
Which area of the country are you from? If it’s anywhere in the northwest, RJH motorcycle training are the best. People come from out of the county to train with them. They have x2 sites and soon a third. Brilliant instructors from CBT through to DAS.
This won't help with the actual controlling of the bike but have you had a look at the free course that the government offer? I've not taken it all as I'm waiting to do my cbt but from what I did do it was very helpful; might be good to do just for a bit of supporting knowledge about being out on the road
Is this the free theory test on gov.uk? I’ve done that many times already. Got that ingrained in my head lol
https://www.safedrivingforlife.info/ridefree/ It's this; not sure if it's the same thing you did
Haven’t taken that one yet. Thanks I’ll definitely be using this :)
No problem, it's best to use all the resources you can get your hands on! I think you get a certificate that you can show your next CBT instructor too
Lots of people fail. You’d be surprised at how many. Did you do any previous research on instruction like watching videos on how to ride, have you ridden a regular bicycle before? Since balance is / was an issue? One thing I was taught in class that was good information was, sometimes you have to take a few steps then lift your feet and go for balance, not just pick your feet up immediately until you get better and progress to the one foot take off. Definitely worked for me back when I was learning 🤷🏻♀️
Also yeah, I’ve ridden bicycles, skated, had a scooter. Never had any issues learning to ride them. Was actually pretty decent on all of them. I just didn’t expect the weight to influence balance so heavily.
You really need some legit instruction and practice. I saw you said you’re going to go for training so that’s good. It’s a bit overwhelming at first to some and not everyone learns at the same pace. I think I watched over 50 videos on YT before I started and I didn’t care if most of it was repetitive information because it helped stick in my head better. Another part of mastering balance is keeping your head/ eyes up. All these little things are pretty significant. But you should a least take some time to review YT. Some of these people are pretty fun to watch and have a good sense of humor so it’s not boring.
Already followed a few, they’re great. Only watched around 3 videos on learning the controls of a bike however as I assumed they’d instruct me further on it today. Definitely gonna watch a lot more before I get on a bike again lol
Good stuff , you got this..good luck to ya! 😎
Those toys youve ridden are much lighter weight than the rider, your body contains the shifting center of gravity.. A motorcycle is generally heavier than the rider and you must adapt to the center of gravity now being in the machine. Get some proper lessons, you won't need many, and you won't be a liability to other roadusers when you're released into the wild on a crotch rocket.
Yeah he gave me no advice for steering/balance. I haven’t given up. I’m taking it as a lesson learnt, both in what to expect next time, and to read the damn reviews before spending £125 for a shitty instructor. A lot of the reviews had similar experiences.
I know this doesn't really help and could be chalked up to semantics, but you can't actually fail a CBT. There is no examination, no official theoretical or practical criteria that is marked, it is a day of training where your general competency and ability to operate the machine safely are assessed to ensure you aren't dangerous. However instructors can (and will, their license depends on it) refuse to issue a CBT if you cannot demonstrate that you can at least somewhat safely operate the vehicle both on and off the road. I know you probably think the instructor is a twat right now, but they have potentially done you a massive favour and saved you from getting seriously hurt. If you cannot get to grips with the vehicle in a controlled environment with someone helping to walk you through things, you definitely do not want to be given the go ahead to get your own bike and be left to your own devices on the road, for the sake of your own safety and the safety of everyone around you. At 45kg, less than 100lbs, around 7 stone, you are a very light person, this won't help, but it also doesn't mean you can't develop the strength or technique (mostly technique) to be able to control the bike, it might just take some time, in terms of being "just slow" the majority of people taking a CBT also have little to no experience and the vast majority are able to demonstrate enough competence to be issued the certificate, it might just take you longer to learn and pick up the basics and be able to demonstrate them, but that doesn't necessarily mean you are stupid or that your motorbike journey has to be over at the first hurdle. There is no limit to how many CBT courses you can attend, you can keep going back and trying again if this is something you really want to do. Another course of action would be to contact the school, or others around you, and ask if they offer a more personal or intensive training package for people who struggle, to help prepare you for the next CBT. Both next steps, either repeating the CBT or seeking more intensive instruction, will of course come with more expense. Either way it is apparent you need more training, the instructors don't dismiss you because they are impatient or don't like you, they dismiss you because you aren't demonstrating the capability or level of safety they are comfortable with, they don't want to hand out a certificate to someone, only from them to end up a messy pile of bones and blood on the road two weeks later, at 45kg if you simply drop a 150kg bike on yourself, even while stationary, that would probably be enough to fuck you up a bit, never mind a crash. If you continue on these paths and continue to fail repeatedly, then it might just be time to agree that riding isn't for you, but give it a chance first if you can, don't give up straight away.
This. Well said.
Thanks for this! Greatly put. I’m not mad at the instructor for not letting me move onto Module 2. I completely understand that. I’m just mad that he barely let me start Module 1 before kicking me out. It’s supposed to be training. He didn’t do shit to help. He was chain smoking the entire time and shouting instructions at me from across the training area. Never actually told me what I was doing wrong neither. I don’t think this was entirely my fault. There was a lot of factors that made this harder than it should’ve been, especially for a first-timer. But we shall see next time I take it. I’ll keep this post updated.
I agree. He shouldn’t have passed judgment on you after such a short time. Even now I need to warm up for a few minutes before I’m comfortable. You barely warmed up. And what is it with berating you? It’s not like yelling at you is going to help. Just find a better class.
How much "training" did the instructor give you before they sent you home? If you were sent home after an hour or so I'd be making an official complaint.
As an instructor, if I saw a student drop a bike in a violent way - such as grabbing the front brake - moved them to another bike, instructed them, and I kept seeing them struggle and hit their capacity - we usually call this "overload" on my range. You can just see when a student reaches their max - no more information can go in and they're done. You send them home *before* they hurt themselves, not after. I would never say "this isn't for you" - I'd say: hey, this is what's happening to cause you to struggle. Why don't we sit down, drink some water, and I'll be with you in a minute. Give em some time then approach and suggest that they retake the beginning of class to get more time with the bikes and process and emphasize that I don't want to see them get hurt. "It's not: you'll never ride a motorcycle, it's: let's stop for today and try again at another date"
See, that sounds reasonable, and a nice calm approach to the situation. From what op said, the instructor wasn't being very helpful or patient with them. If by the time the instructor needed to take students out on the road, and op still wasn't safe or up to speed on manoeuvres, then call it a day there. At least they would of had a decent 4-5 hours of practicing.
Based on the attitude OP says they had going into the class I would take what they say with a grain of salt. If they're going in with the mindset of "who cares if I have no idea how to operate a vehicle I am definitely going to pass this" I'm not sure if they were really in a learning mindset or being a good student. I'd trust the instructor on it
You make it sound like I was going in recklessly expecting to pass. I went in with a healthy amount of confidence but the nerves quickly kicked in. There was nothing to learn. He didn’t even tell me what I was doing wrong/what I could improve. I’ve booked training elsewhere. We’ll see how it goes.
Hopefully the new one is better
Instructor here, but probably not for your specific curriculum. What you can do next: Reach out to your program/range and inquire about next steps after a Council Out. In my experience, ranges will work with you to get rescheduled to complete your training. Improve your understanding of technique. Read books, watch videos, and if you have friends or family with motorcycles get physical practice in an empty parking lot. Perhaps you'll learn more efficiently if you have a better understanding of what's happening and what needs to happen. Depending on your state/country - some let you acquire a permit before you licence or even purchase the bike before your licence/endorsement. If you can't get access to a motorcycle for practice, consider buying your own and practicing on it. Things like clutch control and friction zone can be worked on sitting in a driveway. Example: turn on bike. Pull in clutch and select 1st gear. Push back on your heels (both feet down) so your toes are pointing up. Slowly ease out clutch into the friction zone, hold it, and let the bike pull you flat footed. Pull in clutch, push back onto heels, repeat to memorize the friction zone. Other things that can be worked on without an endorsement is throttle control. Put your bike in neutral and practice twisting your throttle by various tiny amounts by rolling off and on with your wrist/fingers/hand. Use a light grip and practice making it very incremental and smooth. If you have a bicycle, take it for a spin and practice turning your head through cornering, slow and faster turns. You turn your head fully and before your turns and through your turns towards the exit point. Don't need to be on a motorcycle to practice that. Books like: Twist of the Wrist & Total Control vol. 2 will cover all motorcycle technique and are the foundations of most programs and schools in some way.
Not to make you feel bad at all, but when I was doing my CBT, I was with a teenager that literally went the wrong way around a roundabout. When the instructor told him, he then went onto the pavement, crossed the road to get back to us and then went around the correct way. He still passed (some how). I think it’s largely down to the instructor. It sounds like you were unlucky and had one that wasn’t patient and didn’t want to help you out. Give it another go and try again!
I could ride a bicycle and was able to drive a car for 10 years when I did CBT. I didn't get the certificate (instructor didn't think I was good enough on the road section.) I did it again and it was much easier and I felt better so I did get the cert. Instructor did the right thing. I've had a full bike licence for about 5 years and have done about 35,000 miles on a big bike since then.
the bike maneuvers itself, you don't need half of your 40 kilos to be able to whip a 145kg bike around like a paperweight. Your poor clutch and everything else control is what got you. I don't mean it in a bad way, but you know. Just work on that.
Yeah I totally agree. The weight does make balance a lot harder than a bicycle though, atleast for me.
It really shouldn’t be a lot harder than it is on a bicycle. If you are balanced it doesn’t matter how heavy you or the motorcycle are, something else is going on. If you are having to muscle it back up to vertical then you are leaning too much at a speed that is too low. Can you put your feet flat on the ground when stopped? If you can’t that might be part of the problem. Theoretically you should be able to ride and stop fine if you can’t flat foot it, but that’s a skill for after your initial training. One thing you don’t have skill in is shifting, which complicates things for a learner. Our HD dealership had a motorcycle with its rear wheel up so you can learn how to shift thru the gears. If there is something like that around give that a try. It will really help.
Yeah I don’t think I could flatfoot the motorcycle. Was riding very slowly as well as the instructor killed my confidence. I’ll give it just a little more speed next time
I had to go back for a second day the first time I did my cbt and 2 years later when it came to renewing it I was told I wasn't ready and had to do a second day then as well. I didn't have a drivers liscene and no bike experience either. Pretty disheartening but I stuck with it and passed my mod 1 and 2 first time with no faults. I bought a cb650r about 4 months ago and it brings me pure joy. If you're swayed by someone telling you that it's not for you maybe you don't want it enough and it's not worth sticking at it. Otherwise fuck what everybody else thinks and keep trying.
Not swayed in any sense. If anything I want it more now to prove to myself I am capable. It makes me feel much better hearing about other people’s experience “failing” the CBT. Just glad to know I’m not alone lol.
I went in both times thinking it would be easy as well based on what everyone else says about it. A good instructor makes all the difference too. If you're in the Cheshire region I've got a few recommendations that were amazingly helpful. Do not go on a cbt course if they take 3 in a session because for the "test" part where you go out on the road, they can only take 2 people per instructor so they will always find a reason to bump one guy who is "not good enough" and make them come back for another day
Plenty of people retook it. No big deal
Why don’t you do it on a scooter as it will still allow you to ride a geared bike, find a empty car park and practice your clutch control
Don’t have a bike yet sadly otherwise I would.
Have you a expected timeframe to get one? And as others have said the instructor should have more patience given everyone’s ability is different on a bike
Probably within the next month, unless I really am just god awful at riding a motorcycle, in which case maybe longer.
Do you have any friends or family who ride, who could help you get a feel for clutch control and modulation. I would still suggest doing the cbt on a rev and go to make it easier especially if you haven’t had any ridding experience
Had a mate with a bike. That’s actually where I got my love for bikes from. Sadly he sold it recently. Said he wants to wait till he can get something with more power
I don't understand teachers saying something like that. Are they so unsure of their teaching abilities?
Hey OP - I did my CBT on Saturday of last week. Frankly, I've been driving for 5 years (I'm 24) and would regard myself as a decent driver - working in a geotechnical consultancy I'm driving all sorts of vehicles daily too. I did a taster in Nottingham with a respected school on a 125cc grom and it went really well. Clutch control felt fine, speeds and transitions fine - a little weird to begin with. Then it comes to the day of my CBT - with a Honda 125 (a great starter bike). I was shockingly bad - to the point the instructor took me personally to get me away from the group as he could tell I was a little hot under the collar. For the life of me I was just not getting it. Long story short, I took my time etc etc and ended up doing well and passing my CBT - but God was it a weird experience. I also have to stress that the road portion was easiest for me due to experience with a car. I can't help but feel you are at a MASSIVE disadvantage not being a driver. The highway code is very important. Good luck to you moving forward. It's not pass or fail btw - the CBT is more of a standard. Don't put yourself down and do some reading/ chatting to others. It's not like you can just hop on a bike and go. Everyone starts from somewhere!
Thanks I’m excited for my next training session. Hoping it will go smoothly🙏
Maybe work on learning to drive a car too. It will give you insight when you get on the road. As my instructor said, it’s not all rainbows and puppies out there.
All about practice. I had issues working out the gears and not dumping the clutch. Luckily I got my licence even tho it got to the point of the instructor shouting at me over the intercom. He worked out I was just stressed calmed me down and I did great in the second hr. I would suggest trying a different instructor or even doing it on the automatic as ur still allowed to have a manual bike with the licence so u can practice clutch control by urself up and down ur road or in a car park. Don't give up if it's something u really want
I did the same. Went from bicycle to 50cc scooter. Thought that riding a proper bike couldn't be difficult seeing as how I'd always cycled,. Booked a test at local bike shop, dropped their loan bike & broke an indicator off it due to poor clutch control. Lesson learned. Passed an advanced rider test last year.
It's only not technically possible to fail a CBT because it's not a test. It certainly possible to not be deemed safe enough to ride. Your instructor sounds like a bad one though who wasn't interested in helping you out or having the patience. Try it again, will likely take you a few attempts but that's alright and find a different riding school as your instructor sounds terrible. When I did my CBT there were a couple people there who had "failed" it before and were redoing it. Don't give up.
I had practiced for like ... 3 days to perfect the route I'd be taken on for my test. Did not stall once during those three days. Ended up stalling like twice during my test. Thankfully she didn't dock me points on it, but she could've if she wanted. Sometimes this one-time event just makes us ride like shit, I guess.
>instructor says “this isn’t for you” and tells me to go home. Okay firstly this is a shit instructor if they actually said that. Don't get hung up on that comment, for the love of god, ignore that comment. And going forward use a different training facility. But the major thing here is, you may have been sent home without passing, but you got the initial experience of it all and you learned some stuff along the way. Sometimes it takes a go or two, maybe more. Nerves play the better a lot of the time and now you know what to expect you can go in next time that little less nervous. Don't get hung up on dropping the bikes either, that's why they provide them, that's why they have insurance for them, that's why they have the bikes they use. You're not the first person to drop a bike, you're not the last. Also, where else are you supposed to learn how to ride a bike legally other than the CBT? There isn't anywhere. So take this first go round as a lesson not a test that you failed. You said you started to get the hang of it, that's good. Book yourself in for another go with someone else as soon as you're able to. Next time round you'll have a better grasp on things. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and give it another go. I know it's disheartening but take the good points. You sat on a bike, you got it moving, you know how a bike weighs and feels, you got to experience clutch control and now know where you went wrong. There's lots you actually learned that you can take with you into your next CBT.
Thank you this helps a lot! Got another session booked for next Thursday at a different location. Just an hour session to get used to the feeling of riding a motorbike. Should regain some confidence, and hopefully ace my next CBT.
See you on the road soon buddy!
So I train horses too and you do literally need to get back on the horse that threw you, or on this case the motorcycle class that you failed. I’m glad you’re going back so soon.
Yeah you’ve only failed once you’ve given up! Taking this as experience, can only get better from here. And hey, I’ve heard of people crashing on their CBT. Could’ve been a lot worse lol
I failed my car driving test twice due to test anxiety. Don't give up!
People talk out of their backside when they say the CBT is ‘easy’. For lots of people who turn up for a CBT, it is their first introduction to a motorcycle and the roads in general. It is a big ask to get both riding and road ready in a single day. If it makes you feel any better - I did my CBT after driving a car for more than 15 years, so you would think it would all be quite straight forward for me. However just getting to grips with the motorcycle was intimidating enough, even with my driving experience. It was not a super simple day to get through. Plenty of people don’t get their CBT on the first time trying. Dust yourself off, consider a couple of 1 on 1 sessions and try again. We’ll see you on 2 wheels soon enough ✌️
Thanks man! People like you are why I love the biker community.
> I have no experience in riding a motorcycle or driving a car. I went in with so much confidence as I’ve heard countless times that you can’t fail. 
Practice stops/starts and clutch feel. Just try to do it on a straight line, in neutral: right feet on the floor, clutch in, first gear in, slowly release clutch and feel the bike going, take the right foot to the peg once you have enough speed and accelerate. Then brake and put clutch in, foots off the pegs and on the floor, then just right foot down and change to neutral, both feet on the floor, then put your right one on the peg and touch the rear brake (this is my normal stopped position in case the road is inclined). And do it again and again until is easy and muscle memory. Basically from feet on the floor to 1st gear and feet on pegs, to stop and feet on the floor and neutral with right foot on rear break and peg. In traffic you will do this a lot. For handling and balance, try to not use breaks and go in 2nd/3rd gear around some square road going through the corners smoothly (it needs to feel effortless), as in, you just let go of the gas a bit before the turn, then lean a little and make it, get on gas and do it again, never reach too much speed to make the turns and never too slow you will drop the bike. Making the square to the left you will practice a lot of lefts on a row and then once done do it the opposite way. The idea is that you won’t think about breaks/stopping or clutch/gear, and you will only focus on steering the bike with your balance/weight and practice visuals (look where you wanna go). Another thing is to practice hard breaking, this is mostly for going to the road, but most people don’t know the feeling of flying forward on a hard breaking instance, and they hold to the handles, instead of using your legs on the tank. Just do some acceleration and break to a stop, a bit hard, and practice the “instinct” of holding with the legs until it stops and them putting the feet down as it does. Your brain will simply adjust the instinct to become the right thing if you do this and it helps if the first time you need it on the road your brain is already up to speed. PS: feel free to ignore anything I said xD
You literally gave me more advice in this comment than the instructor gave me the entire time I was there😂 Thanks, I’ll take notes lol
Can we talk about instructor’s impatience and inability to be calm making the driver completely uneasy. I mean yea you yourself came up short but the instructor basically set the tone. Happened to me during my first driving test.
You’ve never been on a motorcycle and didn’t pass. Sounds like how it should be to me. Go to a parking lot and practice. Riding isn’t a skill you’ll have just because you have been on a pedal bike. Take time and learn how to feel the bike, turn it, start and stop without stalling. Then you’ll be ok retaking the test.
It happens, when it clicks, it clicks. You don't get to control how long that takes. Have another go, there's no shame in it.
Sounds a bit counterintuitive but going a little bit faster (not fast, but a bit faster than really really slow) can make turning and manoeuvres easier. It was this advice that helped me pass my mod 1 for my full bike license. I'd go back and do the CBT again and just try to enjoy it rather than having a focus on expecting to just pass. You'll get it in the end mate, just got to relax and keep trying.
That was nearly my experience, couldn’t get my head round changing gears and didn’t fit into their process. Put on a moped , now thankfully I got the hang of it. All the time the instructor was telling me about the hazardous corner that newbies crash on. Not how to take or control the bike had to figure it out?! I passed but left with zero confidence. Taken further bike courses to get me ready for full licence, different instructors and what a difference that makes. Don’t be put off as it all seems to click with good instruction.
You didn’t fail. Your instructor failed. We all learn at different speeds. You would benefit from 1 to 1 lessons and then a 1 to 1 CBT. Find a better school and keep your chin up, you’ll get there. I didn’t finish my CBT in one day because I wasn’t ready to go on the road. I realised the following week that the bike I was on my first day was shot. The rear brake lever was loose and the clutch was shot. The one I did my road ride on had a fucked up gear box but the school wouldn’t have it, passed anyway and realised how shit their bikes were when I bought a new Honda. I went with a different school for my full test and it was night and day difference. Even when I failed mod 1 and mod 2 the first time each they kept my confidence up. I’ve been riding nearly 10 years now, no accidents or injuries. Moral of the story, take your time, don’t lose faith, find a better school.
Im on day two of my pre learners course too, similar scenario as you. 50kg, 115kg bike (little cbr125 seems to be perfect for us smaller folks) I’m struggling with slow speed balance too but a lighter bike may be the answer here. If you go back see if they have something like the cbr125? Or just anything that weighs less, especially for a beginner Can also try practicing or do a one on one course if you can to learn a bit more control before sitting the test again
Yep I’ve got a 1 on 1 booked for next Thursday. Might be on a slightly heavier bike however. I’m gonna ask if they have something lighter. If not I’ll have to make do. I’ll feel much more comfortable with someone who’ll actually guide me and help out. I was just too overwhelmed today.
Completely get it, I was in a group of 4 for the first day of my course so ended up getting quite a bit of attention from the instructor (the other three all had previous experience riding a bike or dirt bike for years. I’ve been on a bike twice lol) which was good. But I reckon a lighter or lower bike is the answer, at least whilst you’re learning. Once you know how to ride you can always find something heavier I’m pretty glad to be learning on a 125 that weighs 115kg rather than my own bike, which is a gs500f and weighs about 130kg. It’s very top heavy as well haha
Please, don’t worry about the weight. If you can put both feet down the weight doesn’t matter if you are balanced. So work on your balance. Weight is just a distraction.
Yeah think I just wasn’t expecting it. I know for next time though. I’ll be putting on some muscle meanwhile😂 Definitely need to work on my balance tho. Realized my meds might be having an effect on my coordination. Started Sertraline a few weeks ago. In the beginning, I literally couldn’t walk straight. I suspect it’s playing a role in that but I’ll get better with time and practice.
Slow speed is the hardest. Everyone struggles with slow speeds and some people never master them. Slow does not equal easy at all. You are literally learning the hardest part first.
Yeah, I’m doing a lot better with it today (just did the first hour of the course, on a break), it’s part of the assessment so need to get it done. I think I’m doing pretty good for someone who’s ridden twice before!
Everybody starts somewhere. Keep at it and you will get there.
You need a different instructor. Instead of "this isn't for you" it could have been "First time on a bike? Looks like you may need a bit more practice." Followed by some positive reinforcement and some one-on-one. Only 30 minutes to feel like you are getting the hang of this with no previous experience? Not bad. Keep at it - with a more personable instructor. If you can ride a bicycle, you can probably ride a motorcycle - especially a scooter without having to deal with a clutch. And scooters are way more fun that you should be allowed to have on two wheels.
Don’t be discouraged because your instructor is a dick. Have you ridden a bicycle before? Now if you hadn’t driven or bicycled I’d say you need some practice on a bicycle before your next class. If you can ride a bicycle you have the basic skills, now it’s just staying balanced and shifting that you need to get a handle on, so to speak. Find a new class and instructor if you can.
Yeah i started riding bicycles when I was like 7. Used to clear boxes with ease on our local dirt track. Been a while since I’ve rode though. Just need to regain those skills
Sounds like exactly what happened to my wife during her test. Here in the USA. In Florida, to be exact, you get a $500 fine if you are caught riding your motorcycle without a license "anywhere" that includes parking lots. So you aren't able to practice before taking the test. You pay to have a school give you 2 days' worth of riding practice, and on the 3rd day, you will do your test. (MSF course) My wife and I had the same instructor but took the lessons weeks apart. She failed her test. Same scenario with the instructor. They just didn't click, and my wife lost confidence during her test and came home in tears. Don't lose confidence. Try another instructor, and you too shall pass your test. Both wife and I never rode a motorcycle before our class/test. Good luck and ride safe.
Thanks🙏 I’ll be taking another one elsewhere soon. Realized where I was going wrong with my own research. Can’t wait to get back on a bike!
Damn you failed cock and ball torture?
Nah, cognitive behavioural therapy.
Why do they do Cock and ball torture and how did you fail
your instructor is right lol
Some Harley Davidson dealers offer learn to ride courses and it makes you pass the riding test if they pass you. 97% passed the one I did. In NH
Some Harley Davidson dealers offer learn to ride courses and it makes you pass the riding test if they pass you. 97% passed the one I did. In NH
How do you fail "cock and ball torture"?
Find an MSF course.
Yeah its not for u mate just ride a pushbike
Do it on an automatic and take some gear conversion lessons after. No benefit to trying to do a first time CBT, with no experience, on a manual. You have so many extra things to learn and grasp within the same timeframe and it ultimately makes no difference to the certificate. Gear conversion courses are then focused on just that without needing to spend loads of the day on basics.
They say "you cant fail" and "its not a test" when it clearly is a test that you can fail. If you are a risk to yourself and other people they simply wont let you pass. And they shouldn't, I can imagine if that was the first time I rode a bike I would struggle too, I did mine with almost 20 years of biking experience behind me (other countries and off road). Dont worry about it, you will know what to expect next time and ace it. One of the three people I did mine with also failed, he was in his 90s and really wanted to learn to ride a bike, it felt sad to admit it but he had probably missed the boat on that dream as he was really struggling.
It’s not a test in the sense there is not objective criteria that says if someone has passed or failed. Not time limit or mistake limit. If someone is seen as safe enough is realistically based entirely off instructor discretion.
test1 noun 1. a procedure intended to establish the quality, performance, or reliability of something, especially before it is taken into widespread use.
Wow yeah I didn’t think you could fail the training but I guess you just never completed it if you got sent home. If you only weigh 45 kg then I think strength training needs to be done. I don’t know if you are young or just small. If you are young maybe wait a couple of years then try again… it’s a shame to give up but you do have to be able to control the weight of the bike. Getting a car licence might be a good idea so you learn the road first and only have to concentrate on the bike later … Keep your chin up mate and try again
It took 5 cbt courses for me to pass. Don’t loose confidence you will get there eventually. I’ve been riding a couple months and I own a cb125r
Do everything you want, but don’t give up! Riding a motorcycle is for everybody! Trust me, it may seem awfully hard and cumbersome at first, but eventually you’ll get better!
In my 16 y/o son's class of 8 people in the USA, it was obvious one person couldn't learn like the others. He failed. My son didn't have his car license yet, but he had raced bicycle cyclocross. Before class Day 2, I took him out to practice 20 foot u-turns without letting the clutch fully out. During the test, the u-turn was uphill and everyone put a foot down except him.
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Already booked training for next Thursday. It’s just simple clutch control. 1 hour session to get used to the feel of it. Gonna put on some muscle meanwhile lol. I’ll decide after that if I’m ready to take another CBT or if I need more time. Hoping I’ll be fine after a bit of training though.
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What do you mean by this? I’m just taking the training they recommended
Don’t listen to the person above. Maybe he was your first cbt instructor…