125cc and CBT friendly
For riders aged 17+, a 125cc motorbike is the standard CBT-friendly option.
CBT rider guide
Best Bikes For CBT Riders
Completed your CBT and ready to find your first bike? The best bikes for CBT riders are usually 125cc motorbikes or scooters that feel manageable, affordable to run and easy to ride every day.
Riders aged 17 and over can ride a 125cc motorbike after completing a CBT course, making 125cc bikes one of the most popular starting points for new riders.
What makes a good CBT bike?
A good CBT bike should help you build confidence. For most riders, that means something lightweight, reliable, comfortable and easy to control in traffic, at junctions and when parking.
Easy to handle
Lightweight bikes are usually easier to move around, park and ride at low speed.
Affordable to run
Insurance, fuel, tax, servicing and general maintenance are key for newer riders.
Right for daily riding
Think about commuting, town riding, weekend use and how often you’ll ride.
Best types of bikes for CBT riders
There are a few different styles that work well for CBT riders. The right one depends on your confidence, budget and how you plan to use the bike.
125cc Commuter Bikes
Practical, economical and easy to live with. A strong choice if you’re using the bike for work, college or local riding.
View 125cc bikes125cc Naked Bikes
Upright, lightweight and simple to ride. Naked 125s are popular for building confidence and learning road skills.
Shop 125cc bikes125cc Scooters
Easy to ride, economical and ideal for town or city journeys. A good option if you want simple everyday transport.
Shop 125cc scootersSports 125cc Bikes
Great for riders who want sharper styling, while still staying within 125cc CBT-friendly limits.
Shop sports 125sAdventure-Style 125cc Bikes
Upright, practical and confidence-inspiring for riders who prefer a taller riding position.
Shop 125cc bikesRetro 125cc Bikes
Classic looks, simple controls and relaxed riding style can make these popular with CBT riders.
Shop 125cc bikesPopular 125cc bikes CBT riders often consider
These are examples of 125cc bike ranges that CBT riders often search for. Availability changes daily, so browse our current 125cc stock to see what’s available now.
Honda CB125R
A popular naked 125cc bike with modern styling and everyday usability.
Yamaha MT-125
A sharp-looking naked 125cc option often considered by newer riders.
Suzuki GSX-R125
A sporty 125cc bike suitable for riders aged 17+ on a CBT licence.
KTM Duke 125
A lightweight 125cc naked bike with aggressive styling.
Honda PCX125
A practical scooter-style option for commuting and town riding.
Lexmoto 125s
Value-focused 125cc bikes and scooters for riders starting out.
Aprilia RS 125
Sports-inspired 125cc styling in a learner-friendly package.
Yamaha YZF-R125
A popular sports 125cc bike for riders who want race-inspired looks.
What should CBT riders check before buying?
The best CBT bike is one that suits your experience and how you’ll use it. Before buying, make sure it feels manageable and works for your budget.
Licence suitability
Riders aged 17+ with a CBT can ride a 125cc motorbike, but always check the exact bike before buying.
Seat height and weight
Confidence matters. Choose a bike that feels comfortable when stopping, parking and riding slowly.
Insurance cost
Insurance can vary by rider, location and bike, so check quotes before deciding.
Running costs
Fuel, servicing, tyres and maintenance should all be part of your budget.
Riding style
A commuter, scooter, sports 125 or naked bike will all feel different day to day.
Condition and history
Check service history, MOT status and overall condition before buying any used bike.
Best brands for CBT riders
CBT riders have plenty of choice across 125cc bikes and scooters, from major Japanese manufacturers to value-focused brands.
Honda
Reliable, practical and popular across 125cc bikes and scooters.
Yamaha
Sporty styling and strong 125cc options for newer riders.
Kawasaki
Popular with riders looking for sporty looks and everyday usability.
Suzuki
Practical, approachable and well suited to new riders.
KTM
Sharp styling and lightweight 125cc options.
Lexmoto
Great value 125cc bikes and scooters for riders starting out.
Aprilia
Sports-inspired 125cc bikes with Italian styling.
Piaggio
Scooter-focused options for town and city riding.
Browse bikes for CBT riders
Start with our used 125cc motorbikes and scooters, then compare styles, running costs and what feels right for your riding.
Best Bikes For CBT Riders FAQs
What is the best bike for a CBT rider?
The best bike for a CBT rider is usually a 125cc motorbike or scooter that feels lightweight, manageable and affordable to run.
Can I ride a 125cc bike on a CBT?
Yes. Riders aged 17 and over can ride a 125cc motorbike after completing a CBT course.
Are scooters good for CBT riders?
Yes. Scooters can be a strong option for CBT riders, especially for town, city and commuting use.
Is a sports 125cc bike suitable for a CBT rider?
Yes, provided it is a 125cc bike suitable for CBT licence rules. Sports 125cc bikes can appeal to riders who want sharper styling.
What should I check before buying a CBT bike?
Check licence suitability, insurance cost, service history, MOT status, seat height, weight and whether the bike feels manageable for your experience level.
