The UK offers a fantastic landscape to explore by motorcycle. But to make sure your two-wheeled adventure runs smoothly, you’ll need to understand and stick to the UK’s motorcycle laws. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting your journey to a full licence, navigating the legal landscape with confidence and clarity keeps you and others safe.

Penalties for breaking these laws can range from fines and penalty points on your licence to more severe consequences like a loss of your licence, seizure of your motorbike, and even imprisonment. Riding along the straight and narrow means you’ll finish each adventure on a high note.

So, what are the main UK motorcycle laws that every rider needs to be aware of? Our comprehensive guide digs into the key areas, from licensing and registration requirements to essential equipment, road rules, rider responsibilities, and specific legislation for different rider categories. You’ll get answers to your pressing questions and gain the confidence and knowledge you need to ride informed. Consider this your essential roadmap to understanding UK motorcycle legislation, ensuring every journey is not only thrilling but also safe and legal.

UK motorcycle laws for licensing and registration

Before you even think about twisting that throttle and feeling the rumble of your engine beneath you, you’ll need to get to grips with the UK’s licensing and registration process. It’s the first step to enjoying the freedom of two wheels, legally. Getting this right keeps you on the right side of the law. Plus, it helps you build the skills and confidence needed to gain your licence for safe riding on UK roads.

What are the different motorcycle licence categories in the UK?

We have a tiered motorcycle licensing system in the UK that progressively grants access to more powerful motorcycles as riders gain experience and competence. Here’s a handy chart of the main motorcycle licence categories and the associate age and power restrictions:

The finer points of UK motorcycle laws for licensing

There are a few caveats and quirks you need to know about each of the UK’s licence levels:

• Compulsory Basic Training certificate (CBT or DL 196): This certificate is not a licence. It’s better to think of this as a permit to keep learning and honing your motorcycle skills on your own for two years. You’ll need a provisional driving licence (or full driving licence) before you can take a CBT course. Once you have your DL 196, you’ll be able to ride alone displaying ‘L’ plates at the front and rear of your bike. You can’t ride on motorways with a CBT certificate.
• AM Licence: This licence allows you to ride mopeds and scooters with an engine size no more than 50cc and a maximum design speed of no more than 28 mph (45 km/h). You can obtain this licence from age 16. You can ditch the ‘L’ plates but you can’t ride on motorways with lower powered motorcycles, mopeds, or  scooters. That’s because they can’t keep up with the flow of traffic. 
• A1 Licence: You can ride light motorcycles with an engine size up to 125cc with this licence. The maximum power output is 11kW (14.7 bhp), and your power-to-weight ratio shouldn’t exceed 0.1kW per kg. You can take your test for this licence from age 17 and these bikes can go on motorways.
• A2 Licence: This category allows you to ride motorcycles with a power output of up to 35kW (46.6 bhp) and a power-to-weight ratio no higher than 0.2kW per kg. On top of that, your motorcycle must also not be derived from a machine more than twice its power. This licence can be gained as early as your 19th birthday, or if after you’ve had an A1 licence for two years (progressive access).
• A Licence (Full Unrestricted): This is the top tier of UK motorcycle licensing. It lets you ride motorcycles of any engine size and power output.

Two ways to a full motorcycle licence

• Direct Access Scheme (DAS): Not everyone gets bitten by the motorcycling bug when they’re young. If you’re 24 or older, you can move from your CBT certification straight to an A licence by taking both practical tests on a large motorcycle after training.
• Progressive Access: By holding an A2 licence for at least two years and then passing a further practical test on a larger motorcycle (minimum age 21).

How do I register a motorcycle in the UK?

Registering your motorcycle with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) is a legal requirement before you can take it on public roads. Here’s a general overview of the process:

• New Motorcycles: If you purchase a brand-new motorcycle from a dealership, they will typically handle the initial registration process for you. They will complete the necessary paperwork and notify the DVLA. You will then receive a Vehicle Registration Certificate (V5C), also known as the logbook, in your name.
• Used Motorcycles: When buying a used motorcycle, the seller is responsible for notifying the DVLA of the change of ownership. They’ll give you the green slip (V5C/2) to  prove your new ownership. Once the seller has notified the DVLA of the sale, they destroy their V5C (logbook). You’ll receive a new V5C in your name within a few weeks. The logbook is crucial for showing your proof of ownership. If you don’t receive it, contact the DVLA immediately.
• Imported Motorcycles: Registering imported motorcycles is more complex. You will need to complete specific DVLA forms, provide evidence of type approval (if applicable), and potentially undergo an inspection. It’s best to check the DVLA website for detailed guidance on importing and registering a vehicle and follow all the steps carefully.

Your V5C (logbook) contains all the ownership details about your motorcycle. That’s the registration number, make, model, engine size, and your details as the registered keeper. You need this for insuring your bike and proving it’s yours. Keep this safe with all the other details of your motorcycle and update the DVLA for a replacement V5C if you change address.

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT): Your First Step on Two Wheels

Most of us who want to ride a motorcycle or moped on UK roads need to take the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). This one-day course equips you with the foundational skills and knowledge to ride safely on the road with L plates (learner plates).

Who needs to take a CBT course?

Generally, you need to complete a CBT if you want to ride:

• A moped (if you passed your driving test after 1 February, 2001)
• A motorcycle up to 125cc and with a power output of up to 11kW (if you are 17 or over)

What does the CBT involve?

The CBT course typically includes five elements:

• Introduction and Eyesight Check: This covers the aims and curriculum of the CBT and a basic eyesight test.
• On-Site Safety and Controls: You’ll learn about the motorcycle’s controls and basic maintenance checks.
• On-Site Riding: This involves practical exercises in a safe, off-road environment to develop fundamental riding skills like starting, stopping, and gear changing.
• Safety Talk for Road Riding: Your instructor will discuss road safety, legal requirements, and hazard perception.
• On-Road Riding: This is the final element, where you’ll ride on public roads for at least two hours under the guidance of your instructor. You’ll be in radio contact with them the whole time and they’ll pull over with you throughout the ride to explain riding manoeuvres and techniques.

What happens after completing your CBT?

Once you successfully complete your CBT, you’ll get a certificate (DL196). It’s valid for two years. During this time, if you wish to continue riding you’ll need to pass the relevant motorcycle theory and practical tests to get a full motorcycle licence. While riding with your CBT, you have to display L plates clearly on the front and rear of your motorcycle. You can’t carry pillion passengers or ride on motorways.

Our motorcycle licensing and registration rules keep us all legal and safe on UK roads. Make sure you are always compliant to enjoy your rides without any unwanted legal hiccups.

Motorcycle equipment and safety regulations for a safe ride

Once you’ve got your licence and your bike is ready to roll, It’s time to make sure you’re kitted-up properly for the road. There are specific laws in the UK for motorcycle gear and your bike’s equipment. They minimise your risk and protect other road users too. Getting this right isn’t just about ticking legal boxes; it’s about giving yourself the best possible chance of a safe and enjoyable ride.

Mandatory motorcycle gear: the essentials you can’t ride without

Certain pieces of gear are non-negotiable when you’re out on your motorcycle in the UK. Make sure you have:

• A helmet: It’s the law – you must wear a safety helmet that meets recognised British or European safety standards. Look for the BSI Kitemark (BS 6658:1985), 1 to 5 star SHARP ratings or UNECE Regulation 22.05standards. A well-fitting, impact-resistant helmet is your first line of defence in the event of a collision.
• Lights: Your motorcycle must be equipped with fully functioning headlights (white or yellow light), tail lights, a red stop lamp that illuminates clearly when you brake and orange indicators to signal your intentions to other road users. If you ride a classic motorcycle that was first used pre-August 1986 without original indicator lights, you’re exempt from needing them. Some off-road motorcycles are also exempt from needing indicators. In these cases, you’ll need to indicate your intention to turn with hand signals.
• Rear Reflector: A red reflector, clearly visible from the rear, is also a legal requirement. It’s so other road users spot you, especially in low-light conditions.

Motorcycle lights and reflectors: seeing and being seen

One of your greatest safety allies when you ride is your ability to be seen. The regulations surrounding motorcycle lights and reflectors are quite specific to ensure safety and maximum visibility:

• Headlights: Must emit a steady white or yellow light. The dipped beam needs to be angled correctly so you don’t dazzle oncoming traffic. Your headlight can also serve as a front position lamp. They don’t need to be used during the day, like they do in Europe, but most riders choose to use them all the same. They’ll increase your visibility on the road.
• Front position lamps: Must emit a white light and be visible from a reasonable distance. Your headlight can also serve as your front position light.
• Tail lights: Must emit a red light and be visible from a reasonable distance.
• Stop lamps: Must shine significantly brighter than the rear position lamp when you brake.
• Indicators: Need to be orange and flash at a consistent rate (typically 60-120 flashes per minute). They must be clearly visible from both the front and rear. Some classic bikes and off-road bikes are exempt from needing indicators. If you ride one of these, you’ll need to indicate turns with hand signals
• Reflector: A single red reflector must be fitted to the rear of the motorcycle, positioned centrally, or to the offside. It must be clean and unobstructed.

You need to make sure all your lights are working correctly before every ride. A quick walk around your bike to check everything is working before riding is a great habit to form. It’ll help you to avoid fines but, more importantly, significantly reduce your risk of an accident.

Helmet laws and standards: use your head

Wearing a helmet that meets approved safety standards is a legal requirement for all motorcycle riders and passengers in the UK. All helmets (yours and your passenger) need to meet British or European standards:

• British Standard BS 6658:1985 and carries the BSI Kitemark.
• UNECE Regulation 22.05 (or the newer 22.06 standard).

Beyond the legal requirement, choosing the right helmet for you is crucial for your safety. Make sure it fits snugly and comfortably, is secure when done up, and in good condition. You should replace it if it’s been in an accident or shows signs of wear and tear. The SHARP (Safety Helmet Assessment and Rating Programme) gives independent ratings for many helmets sold in the UK, offering an extra layer of information to help you make an informed choice.

Motorcycle safety checks (MOT): keeping your ride roadworthy

For motorcycles over three years old, an annual MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a key motorcycle law you’ll need to keep on top of. This test ensures your motorcycle meets the minimum road safety and environmental standards at the time of testing. It’s not a replacement for regularly servicing your motorcycle.

You can find authorised MOT test centres by looking for motorcycle mechanics displaying the official blue sign with three white triangles. These centres employ certified testers who will inspect various aspects of your motorcycle, including:

• Lights: Headlights, sidelights, tail lights, stop lights, and indicators.
• Steering and Suspension: Checking for wear, damage, and proper function.
• Wheels and Tyres: Assessing condition, tread depth, and security.
• Frame: Inspecting for damage or corrosion that could affect structural integrity.
• Brakes: Evaluating the condition and effectiveness of both front and rear brakes.
• Exhaust System: Checking for leaks, excessive noise, and emissions compliance.
• Fuel System: Inspecting for leaks and the security of fuel lines and tank.
• Seats: Ensuring they are secure.
• Wheel Alignment: Checking for correct alignment.
• Horn: Ensuring it works.
• Registration Plates, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and Frame Numbers: Verifying they are present, legible, and match vehicle documents.
• Drive Chain and Sprocket: Assessing condition and adjustment.
• Throttle: Ensuring smooth operation and return.
• Clutch Lever: Checking for smooth operation.
• Footrests: Ensuring they are securely attached.

It’s important to note that an MOT certificate only confirms the roadworthiness of your motorcycle at the time of the test. It’s still your responsibility to ensure your bike remains in a safe and legal condition between MOTs through regular maintenance and pre-ride checks.

Getting to know the equipment and safety regulations keeps you on the right side of the law and actively contributes to a safer riding environment for you and everyone else on the road.

Motorcycle road rules to keep you safe out there

Once you’re legally licensed and your motorcycle is roadworthy, the next crucial aspect of UK motorcycle law revolves around how you ride on the road. Sticking to traffic laws isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s fundamental to ensuring your safety and the safety of all other road users. Let’s go over the key road rules every motorcyclist in the UK needs to know.

Speed limits and traffic signs: the written language of the road

Just like any other vehicle on UK roads, motorcyclists must keep to the UK’s speed limits. These limits are shown on circular traffic signs with a red border and a number or a white circular sign with no border and a black diagonal line across it. The signs vary depending on the type of road and the area you’re riding through.

Circular signs with a red border and a number show the maximum speed for that road in miles. The white circular signs without a border and a black diagonal line indicate the appropriate national speed limit for that road applies. It’s your responsibility to know what the speed limit is and ride at or below it. Common speed limits in the UK include:

• Built-up areas with street lights (e.g., towns and cities): Typically 30 mph (20 mph in Wales), but always check for signed variations.
• Single carriageways: Usually 60 mph, unless otherwise indicated.
• Dual carriageways: Generally 70 mph, unless signed differently.
• Motorways: The national speed limit is 70 mph.

Remember, these are maximum limits, and there will be circumstances where it’s necessary and safer to ride below that limit. It could be changing road conditions, weather, or traffic flow that mean a lower speed is better. Ignoring speed limits can lead to significant fines, penalty points on your licence, and even disqualification, and of course, the increased risk of accidents because you’re cutting down your reaction times.

Equally important is understanding and following other traffic signs. Circular signs give orders you must follow. Triangle signs warn of hazards and rectangular signs give helpful information. Brush up on your knowledge of traffic signs in the Highway Code to ensure you’re fluent in the language of the road.

Overtaking and lane splitting: finding your flow

Knowing how to safely and legally navigate traffic is a key skill for any motorcyclist. Overtaking slow-moving vehicles can improve your progress and safety, but it has to be done with care and always within the bounds of the law.

• Overtaking: Only overtake when it is safe to do so, with a clear view of the road ahead and no oncoming traffic. Never overtake on a blind bend, at a junction, or where a solid white line shows for your lane. Always use your indicators to signal your intentions clearly and ensure you have enough space to complete the manoeuvre by returning to your lane. Be mindful of other road users, including cyclists and pedestrians, and give them plenty of room.
  
• Lane splitting and filtering: Filtering is legal for motorcyclists in the UK. This is where riders carefully move between lanes of slow or stationary traffic to make progress. Lane splitting is a little different, it’s not explicitly legal or illegal. So it’s worth recognising crucial caveats. Filtering is done between stationary or very slow moving traffic. Lane splitting is riding between traffic moving slower than the speed limit, but not necessarily snail’s-pace or stationary. The best motorcycle legal advice warns against lane splitting, but if you do choose to ride into the grey area of lane splitting, ensure you’re on high alert for hazards and no faster than 10 mph above surrounding traffic. Of course you must remain within the speed limits. Even then, you could get nabbed for dangerous riding.

Responsible filtering

• Traffic must be slow or stationary: Filtering through fast-moving traffic is dangerous and likely to be considered reckless driving.
• Speed must be appropriate: Your speed differential compared to the surrounding traffic should be minimal. Avoid excessive speed.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Constantly scan for pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers who may change lanes unexpectedly. Pay particular attention to mirrors and blind spots.
• Do not filter in restricted areas: Avoid filtering in areas with solid white lines, pedestrian crossings, or where road markings prohibit lane changes.
• Be courteous: Give way to other road users and avoid aggressive or intimidating behaviour.

While filtering can be beneficial for motorcyclists, it requires a high degree of skill, awareness, and caution. Always prioritise safety over speed and prepare to stop sharply if necessary.

Parking regulations: park up on the legal side

Finding a parking spot for your motorcycle is usually easier than a car, but you’ll need to know local parking regulations to avoid getting clamped or towed. Ignoring these rules can result in parking fines and, in some cases, your motorcycle being towed.

• General Rules: Parking signs indicate whether parking is permitted, for how long, and any restrictions that apply (e.g., permit holders only, loading bays, cyclists or motorcycles only). Double yellow lines mean no parking at any time. Single yellow lines usually indicate restrictions at certain times. Double red lines mean no stopping at all—even to drop someone off. Double red lines denote clearways which need unrestricted access at all times.
  
• Motorcycle-Specific Parking: Many local authorities provide designated motorcycle parking bays, often free of charge. These are usually marked with a motorcycle symbol or M/C. Using these bays keeps your motorcycle out of harm’s way and avoids taking up space intended for larger vehicles.
  
• Pavement Parking: Local city laws determine whether you can park on pavements. Check with local laws and look for signs. If allowed, leave enough space for pedestrians, especially those with disabilities or buggies, to pass safely. Be considerate and avoid obstructing access to buildings or crossing points.
  
• Congestion Charge Zones: Be aware of any congestion charge zones in your area (like London’s congestion charges). Motorcycles are often exempt, but it’s your responsibility to check the specific rules and register for any applicable exemptions.

Getting to know your road signs, speed limits and parking regulations makes safe and legal motorcycling in the UK easier. If you’re sure of the rules, you’ll have more confidence and  contribute to a safer environment for yourself and everyone else sharing the road.

Motorcycle Riders’ Rights and Responsibilities: Navigating the Road with Awareness

Beyond the specific regulations governing licences, equipment, and road conduct, being a responsible motorcyclist in the UK involves understanding your rights and responsibilities. These ensure your safety and the well-being of others.

Insurance: your right to ride legally and responsibly

Just like any other vehicle on UK roads, motorcyclists have to have valid motorcycle insurance. This isn’t just about ticking a box; it’s about protecting yourself and others in the event of an accident. Riding without insurance can lead to severe penalties, including significant fines (£300 or more), six penalty points on your licence, and even the seizure and destruction of your motorcycle.

You can choose the level of cover that suits your needs and budget.

• Third-party only insurance is the cheapest and the minimum legal requirement. It only covers damage to other people’s property. 
• Third-party fire and theft insurance provides a little more peace of mind. Along with covering damage to other people’s property, third-party fire and theft covers your bike if it’s stolen or damaged in a fire. If it’s stolen you’ll get a payout to buy a similar motorbike of the same age and condition. If it’s recovered after theft, the insurer will pay to have any damage fixed.
• Comprehensive motorcycle cover covers you for all of the things noted above as well as any accident—even if it’s your fault.

Understanding your insurance policy and ensuring it remains valid is a key responsibility for every rider. And it’s your right to have the insurance company pay out according to the policy if you meet their stipulations of the claim. In most cases, you’ll have to report any theft or arson of your motorcycle to the police. That creates a crime reference number and that number allows you to lodge an insurance claim. Make sure you give accurate information to your insurer when taking out your policy as incorrect details can invalidate your policy and future claims.

Pillion passengers: sharing your ride safely and legally

Sharing the joy of motorcycling with a passenger is awesome fun. But you’re taking your passengers life in your hands, so UK law outlines specific responsibilities when carrying someone on the back of your motorbike.

• Your motorcycle must be designed and equipped to carry a passenger, with appropriate seating and footrests.
• It’s your responsibility to ensure your passenger is wearing a legally compliant helmet that fits correctly.
• You must have a full motorcycle licence – you need an A1, A2, or unrestricted A licence to carry pillion passengers

Learner riders holding a CBT certificate cannot carry pillion passengers. Once you hold a full motorcycle licence, you can carry a passenger.

Even with a full licence you need to ensure your passenger’s safety. Let them know how to get on and off your motorcycle safely. Show them how to sit securely, and how to move with your bike. Riding smoothly and predictably makes carrying a passenger easier, as their movements can affect the motorcycle’s balance and handling. If you’re nervous about asking others to ride with you, take a short motorways and carrying pillion passengers course. It will teach you how to do this safely.

Alcohol and drug limits: ride sober, ride safe

The UK has strict laws regarding driving or riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs—that includes some medications. The legal alcohol limit for drivers in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland is 80 milligrams of alcohol per 100 millilitres of blood, 35 micrograms per 100 millilitres of breath, or 107 milligrams per 100 millilitres of urine. Scotland has a lower limit.

Riding under the influence significantly impairs your judgment, reaction time, and coordination – all of which are critical for safe motorcycling. Even a small amount of alcohol, some medications and illicit drugs will impair your reaction times.

The penalties for drink or drug riding are severe. They include unlimited fines, a driving ban (which will apply to your motorcycle licence for no less than a year), and even imprisonment. As a responsible rider, it is your absolute duty to ensure you are completely sober and not affected in any way that will impair your ability to ride safely. There is no safe amount of alcohol or illegal drugs to have in your system when operating a motorcycle.

Accident reporting: How to act responsibly after an incident

Unfortunately, accidents can happen to even the most skilled and cautious riders. In the event of a motorcycle accident in the UK, you have specific responsibilities. If the accident involves injury to another person or damage to property (including vehicles), you’re legally obliged to stop. You should also share your details and report the accident to the police. This typically includes your name, address, and vehicle registration number.

If anyone is injured, you must call the emergency services immediately by dialling 999. You must exchange details with any other involved parties. If you are unable to do this at the scene (for example, if the other party leaves without providing information), you must report the accident to the police ASAP and within 24 hours.

Gathering information at the scene, such as photographs and witness details, is helpful for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings. Remember, your responsibility after an accident is to act calmly, responsibly, and in accordance with the law.Understanding your rights and responsibilities for insurance, safe riding and responding to an accident helps take care of every motorcyclist in the UK. It can be difficult to know what to do if you’re first on the scene of an accident involving another motorcyclist. Free Biker Down! courses give riders and motorists the skills they need to respond to these situations and could help you save a life.

Tailored motorcycle laws in the UK for specific rider categories

The UK’s motorcycle laws recognize that different levels of experience and age require specific regulations to ensure safety and responsible riding. Here’s a breakdown of the rules that apply to learner riders, young riders, international riders, and those with older car licences.

Rules for learner riders: your training wheels

The Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) certificate is the very first step for most people wanting to ride a motorcycle or moped on UK roads. When you have a CBT you’re subject to specific restrictions:

• Displaying ‘L’ plates: Learner riders must clearly display regulation ‘L’ plates (red ‘L’ on a white background) on both the front and rear of their motorcycle.
• No pillion passengers: Carrying any passengers is strictly prohibited while riding with a CBT certificate.
• No motorways: Learner riders are not allowed to ride on motorways. This is due to the higher speeds and traffic volume.
• Valid for two years: The CBT certificate is only valid for two years from the date of issue. After this period, if a full licence has not been obtained, another CBT course must be completed to continue riding on the road.
• Restricted motorcycles: CBT typically allows riding motorcycles up to 125cc with a power output of up to 11kW, provided the rider is 17 or older. For moped riders (16 years old), the restrictions on engine size and speed apply as per the AM licence category.

The CBT is designed to provide basic skills and knowledge for safe riding under supervision (implied by the ‘L’ plates). It is not a full licence, and further theory and practical tests are required to progress to a full motorcycle licence.

Rules for young riders (16-17 year olds) and graduated access

For younger riders, the licensing system provides a graduated approach to accessing more powerful motorcycles:

• 16-year-olds: At 16, you can get an AM licence, which allows you to ride mopeds with an engine size no more than 50cc and a maximum design speed of no more than 28 mph (45 km/h). They can ride without ‘L’ plates but won’t be allowed on motorways.
• 17-year-olds: When you turn 17, you can train and test for an A1 licence. This licence lets you ride light motorcycles with an engine size up to 125cc, a maximum power output of 11kW (14.7 bhp), and a power-to-weight ratio not exceeding 0.1kW per kg. You’ll be allowed on motorways and can ride without ‘L’ plates.

These restrictions ensure younger, less experienced riders gain experience on smaller, less powerful machines before progressing to larger motorcycles.

Rules for International Riders: Navigating UK Roads with Foreign Licences

If you hold a motorcycle licence issued in another country and wish to ride in the UK, the rules vary depending on where you got your licence:

• EU/EEA Licences: Licences issued in countries within the European Union (EU) or European Economic Area (EEA) are generally valid for riding in the UK for as long as they remain valid in the issuing country. 
• Licences from designated countries: The UK holds agreements with some countries to allow their driving licences (including motorcycle licences) to be exchanged for a UK licence without the need for further tests. The list of these “designated countries” can be found on the DVLA website.
• Licences from other countries (non-designated): If your motorcycle licence was issued in a country that is not part of the EU/EEA or a designated country, you can usually ride in the UK for up to 12 months from when you become a resident. After this period, you’ll need to pass the UK motorcycle theory and practical tests to get a UK licence.

International riders should check the latest DVLA guidance to understand their specific entitlements and any requirements for riding legally in the UK. Rules are based on their country of origin and residency status.

Rules for riders with car licences pre-February 1st, 2001: grandfather rights

If you passed your car driving test in the UK before February 1st, 2001, you could be eligible for “grandfather rights” for riding a moped. Their car licence usually includes entitlement to ride mopeds (category AM) without the need for a CBT. That’s only mopeds with an engine size up to 50cc and a maximum speed of 28 mph. You won’t need to show ‘L’ plates or take a CBT course. However, this entitlement doesn’t extend to larger motorcycles. So, if you want a bigger bike, you’ll need a CBT and further tests for a licence.

Ride safe, ride legal embrace the UK motorcycle laws

Navigating the landscape of UK motorcycle laws can feel like a LOT to take in. But understanding and sticking to these regulations is core to safety and free-flowing traffic. By staying informed and compliant, you not only avoid potential penalties but, more importantly, you contribute to a culture of responsible motorcycling, better road use, and allow everyone to embrace the freedom and thrill of exploring the UK on two wheels with confidence and peace of mind. Why not embark on your two-wheeled adventure with us today?