Motorcycle Training Frequent Questions
Here are some common questions, if you need any more help then get in touch.
What is a CBT?
This is Compulsory Basic Training, and is the starting point for learning to ride. It validates the provisional portion of your licence allowing you to ride a moped or 125cc (If 17 or over) with 'L' Plates. The CBT must be completed successfully before progressing onto a Part II or a Direct Access Course. It is generally a 1-day course (although it can take longer) introducing you to all the basics of learning to ride in an off-road area and culminates in a minimum of a 2-Hour on road session.
What do I need to do before I can start riding?
- You must have a provisional licence with category P entitlement to ride a moped at age 16 or a provisional or full licence with category A entitlement to ride a 125cc or over.
- You can apply for a provisional driving licence quickly and easily online from the DVLA or by completing the D1 application form available at most post offices.
- All applications made by filling in the D1 form will also require original documentation to be sent to the DVLA to confirm your identity.
- The minimum age, which you can legally, ride a moped on the public roads is 16, when supported with a valid CBT certificate.
- The minimum age for a 125cc is 17 again if supported with a valid CBT certificate.
- Until the day you pass the practical part of the Riding Test, learner restrictions apply, you must display 'L' Plates, you cannot carry a passenger and you cannot ride on a motorway.
- It is also worthwhile having an eyesight test to check that you meet the minimum eyesight standard for riding.
- You are required to pass a CBT, Theory Test and both Mod 1 and Mod 2 (explained later) if you wish to gain a full motorcycle licence and ride a motorcycle over 125cc without "L" plates.
How much are motorcycle lessons with ProScot?
Please check our motorcycle training prices.
Do ProScot provide Theory Test Training?
ProScot also have an interactive computer suite at their head office in Kirkcaldy, where you can brush up on your theory and hazard perception skills and test your knowledge for FREE when you are learning to Ride with a ProScot.
What is a Module 1 test?
The Module 1 commonly referred to as Mod 1 is an off-road machine control test of your slow speed and higher speed bike control; the test lasts 12 minutes and is conducted from a Multi Purpose Test Centre (MPTC) with a tarmac area about the size of a football field.
What is a Module 2 test?
The Mod 2 test can only be attempted once you have successfully completed the Mod 1 test, Mod 2 must be sat on the same size of motorcycle as used to ass Mod 1. Mod 2 is an on road test assessing both your motorcycle control and roadcraft. The test lasts approximately 40 minutes. You must successfully complete a CBT, pass a theory test and pass both Mod 1 and Mod 2 to gain a full motorcycle licence.
What type of motorcycle's do you use for training?
We use Sym DD50 Automatic Mopeds; Yamaha YBR 125cc for CBT's and the Part II A1 Restricted Licence. We use Suzuki SV 650's for A2 Restricted Licence and Direct Access. We also use Honda NC 750's for our instructors.
Can I use my own bike?
Yes although we don't recommend it, our bikes are fitted with crash protectors, if you damage your bike you will have to pay for it. If your bike breaks down in test or on the CBT we cannot compensate you, if it happens on one of ours we can! We think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
How many lessons will I need to take?
Riding is a skill that some people learn quicker than others. The CBT generally takes 1-day; you can however come back for extra training if you are unsuccessful. For Part II or DAS, ProScot provide both hourly lessons and courses, from our Short Course for the more experienced rider to our Full Course. Our course descriptions and pre-requisites will give you a good idea of what method would suit you. Our office staff have a lot of experience and will be able to advise you.
Do ProScot do intensive courses?
Yes, ProScot specialise in this type of course, we can take you from initial enquiry, through your CBT, Theory Test, Training and Test with Pass all in less than 4 weeks! This can be arranged through our head office. ProScot's "Learn To Ride In A Week' Course is extremely popular with students, the test can be arranged at the end of your training.
It is also possible to book semi-intensive courses, for those who prefer a more relaxed approach.
We will talk you through the various options available.
Learning to ride is different for everyone so rather than sell you a set package we'll tailor one to suit you. Call 01592 - 650100 or pop into the head office for details.
Residential courses are also available, contact the head office for details. Please call for further details and availability.
Does ProScot have a high pass rate?
Yes, over 80% of ProScot pupils pass both Mod 1 and Mod 2 first time; this is one of the reasons why we are still able to offer guaranteed training. Most schools have now removed this option. Check out our testimonials to find out what our ex-studentshave to say about our training
Do ProScot offer evening and weekend training?
Yes, although your training cannot be done intensively if you choose this option. We are only able to offer limited hours during evenings and weekends so waiting times are also longer.
Will my instructor expect me to know the basics of learning to ride?
No not at all, in fact approx 75% of our students have never ridden before. The CBT takes you from complete novice; our instructors will adjust their level of instruction to suit your needs.
I am really nervous about learning to ride, how can you help me?
ProScot has had lots of experience dealing with nervous students this is completely normal. We do have instructors who specialise in helping nervous pupils, they are particularly patient and understanding; they will help to build your confidence through our "success based' training programme. Please state your concerns and needs when booking.
Do I need to buy motorcycle clothing before I start my course?
No ProScot provide you with ce approved clothing free of charge for the duration of your training. ProScot also have a fantastic range of very stylish quality clothing from Buffalo and Duchini wich we can supply at discounted rates of up to 20% for ProScot students.
Does ProScot provide advanced rider training once you have passed?
Yes, ProScot are very fortunate to have one of Britain's highest qualified and most successful car and motorcycle instructors, John Macdonald running our Cornering Techniques and Advanced Courses. He is also a very successful motorcycle racer with multiple Scottish championships to his name and lap records over a 20 year racing career.
Do you offer refresher courses for "born again bikers"?
Yes, ProScot will tailor a course to suit your personal needs experience and finances. Please contact the office for further details.
If I bring my own bike for training, would I get a discount?
No, ProScot prices are already heavily discounted, as you will see. If you want to use your own bike you can, however you may wish to use ours, as we do not charge for motorcycle hire.
What happens on the day of my test?
Your instructor will have prepared you fully for the day of your test. They will have helped you with simulated mock tests to prepare you fully. The Mod 1 test lasts approximately 12 minutes and is conducted at the Multi Purpose Test Centre (MPTC) in Kirkcaldy, the Mod 2 test lasts 40 minutes both are conducted by a Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency Examiner.
Mod 2 is conducted from Kirkcaldy test centre details of which you can find out from the head office. First of all you are given an eyesight test to make sure you reach the minimum eyesight requirement, then he will ask you a "show me tell me" maintenance question. The examiner then assesses your ability to ride competently and safely and tests you on some of the manoeuvres you have covered in your lessons. Finally he will ask you a question on carrying a pillion passenger at the end.
If I have a complaint what do I do?
ProScot have a customer service satisfaction grading of over 96%* in the unlikely event that you do have a complaint this will be taken very seriously and dealt with quickly and efficiently. In the first instance you should mention your complaint direct to your instructor, if this is not possible or you do not receive satisfaction you should take your complaint to our Head Office, if they are still unable to rectify the complaint to your satisfaction a letter should be written to our director. He will try to resolve the complaint to your satisfaction, if he is unable to then your complaint should be directed to the Driving Standards Agency, our office will give you their contact details. (* - Feedback received from ProScot course critique sheets 2010).