CBT courses can only be given by training bodies that are approved by DVSA. The standard of training is monitored by DVSA examiners. The course is designed to give you basic skills before riding on the road.

A motorcycle registration document contains a number of details that are unique to a particular vehicle. You must notify DVLA of any changes to, for example, the registered keeper or registration number. You must also tell them about any modifications made to the motorcycle.

Some road surfaces can affect the stability of a motorcycle far more than they affect other vehicles. Look out for loose or slippery road surfaces and be aware of any traffic around you. You may need to take avoiding action and change direction quickly.

Theft of motorcycles is a very common crime. If you can, secure your vehicle to a lamppost or other such object, to help reduce the chances of it being stolen.

You should always use the steering lock when leaving your motorcycle. Also consider using additional locking devices, such as a U-lock, disc lock or chain. If possible, fasten the motorcycle to an immovable post or another machine.

If you meet another vehicle on a narrow road and the passing place is on your left, pull into it. If the passing place is on your right, wait opposite it.

Correct loading is the responsibility of the rider. Overloading a motorcycle can seriously affect the control and handling. It could result in a crash, with serious or even fatal consequences.

The areas that aren’t covered by your mirrors are called blind spots. They should always be checked before changing direction. This check is so important that it’s called the ‘lifesaver’.

When riding past queuing traffic, look out for ‘keep clear’ road markings, which will indicate a side road or entrance on the left. Vehicles may emerge or turn between gaps in the traffic.

If you need glasses to bring your eyesight up to the legal standard for driving or riding, you must wear them whenever you ride. Don’t be tempted to ride if you’ve lost or forgotten your glasses; you’ll endanger yourself and other road users, and you’ll be breaking the law.

If you want to fit a sidecar to your motorcycle, check that the motorcycle is suitable and can cope with the extra load. Make sure that the sidecar is securely fixed and properly aligned. If your motorcycle was registered on or after 1 August 1981, the sidecar must be fitted on the left-hand side of the motorcycle.

It’s very important to keep your visor or goggles clean. Clean them using warm soapy water. Don’t use solvents or petrol.

Motorcyclists are exposed to the elements and can become very cold when riding in wintry conditions. It’s important to keep warm or your concentration could be affected. The only way to stay warm is to wear suitable clothing. If you do find yourself getting cold, then stop at a suitable place to warm up.

The minimum insurance cover required by law is third-party only. This covers the other people and vehicles involved in a collision, but not you or your vehicle. Also, basic third-party insurance won’t cover you for theft or fire damage. Make sure you read your policy carefully and understand what it covers.

A motorcycle is most stable when it’s upright and moving in a straight line. This is the best time to brake. With independent front and rear brakes, both brakes should be used, with the front brake being applied just before the rear brake.

After carrying out drive-chain adjustment, you should always check the rear wheel alignment. Many motorcycles have alignment guides stamped onto the frame to help you do this correctly.

You mustn’t stop on the hard shoulder, except in an emergency. Never use the hard shoulder to have a rest or a picnic, answer a mobile phone or check a road map. Also, you mustn’t travel back along the hard shoulder if you’ve gone past your exit.

Drinking even the smallest amount of alcohol can affect your judgement and reactions. The safest and best option is to avoid any alcohol at all when riding or driving.

To make sure a sidecar outfit doesn’t roll away after you’ve parked it, you should leave it in a low gear and wedge it against the kerb or place a block behind the wheel.

If a tyre bursts, close the throttle smoothly and slow gently to a stop, holding the handlebars firmly to help you keep a straight course.

You should check that all your lights work properly before every journey. If you aren’t sure whether your signals can be seen, you can use arm signals as well to make your intentions clear; avoid this if you’re riding at speed because it can upset your stability.

If a motorcycle’s wheels are incorrectly aligned, tyres may wear unevenly and the motorcycle can become unstable, especially when cornering.

At a pelican crossing, the green light means you may proceed as long as the crossing is clear. If someone hasn’t finished crossing, be patient and wait until the road is clear.

Have your eyesight tested before you start your practical training. Then have checks periodically throughout your riding life, as your vision may change.

If you’re riding at night or in poor visibility, tinted lenses or a tinted visor will reduce the amount of available light reaching your eyes, making you less able to see clearly.

Panniers or saddlebags should be loaded so that you carry about the same weight in each bag. Uneven loading could make the motorcycle unstable, especially when cornering.

Every vehicle on the road has a registration document. This records any change of ownership and gives specific information relating to the vehicle and owner. This includes the date of first registration, the registration number, the make and colour of the vehicle, and the registered keeper’s name.

On a windy day, be aware that the blustery conditions might blow you or other motorcyclists out of position. Think about this before deciding to overtake.

Learner motorcyclists aren’t allowed to

• tow a trailer
• carry a pillion passenger
• use the motorway.

In addition, they must display red L plates (D plates in Wales) to the front and rear of the motorcycle.

Some helmet straps have a velcro tab in addition to the main fastening, which is intended to secure the strap so that it doesn’t flap in the wind. It shouldn’t be used on its own to fasten the helmet.

Other motorcyclists and cyclists may be difficult to see on the road, particularly at junctions. If your view is blocked by other traffic, you may not be able to see them approaching.

If your motorcycle starts to aquaplane, ease off the throttle smoothly. Don’t brake or turn the steering until tyre grip has been restored.

As well as making your motorcycle difficult to control, the leaking oil could find its way onto your tyres and brakes. This could result in a loss of control, putting you and other road users in danger.

When riding, look ahead and around you. Don’t look down at the front wheel, as this can severely upset your balance.

Tyre pressures should be checked regularly. Look in your vehicle handbook for the correct pressures to use.

Painted lines and road markings can be very slippery, especially for motorcyclists. Try to avoid them if you can do so safely.

Your motorcycle will be very unstable if a tyre bursts. Try to keep a straight course and stop as gently as possible.

It’s illegal to park in a space reserved for disabled users unless you’re permitted to do so. These spaces are provided for people with limited mobility, who may need extra space to get into and out of their vehicle.