Phoenix Motorcycle Training responds to DVSA CBT proposals
Phoenix Motorcycle Training has weighed in on the DVSA’s sweeping proposals for moped and motorcycle training, including major changes to CBT.
Big changes could be coming to how riders in Great Britain get on two wheels. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) has launched a consultation on potential updates to moped and motorcycle training, testing, and licensing.
The result of the consultation could completely change the testing and training landscape, with Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), possibly seeing its biggest changes during its 36-year history.
Now, we’ve got our own opinions on the changes the DVSA is putting forward, but to get a more boots-on-the-ground take on them, we reached out to Phoenix Motorcycle Training’s owner and chief instructor, Mark Jaffe.
DVSA CBT proposals: Phoenix Motorcycle Training responds
Central to the proposals is a rethink of Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), including restricting learners to automatic machines if their CBT is completed on one, capping the number of times a rider can renew their CBT, and adding a theory element to the training. On those proposals, Mark was more cautious of some than others.
“While the introduction of a theory test to the CBT syllabus is welcomed, it’s important to consider how this is delivered while keeping CBT inclusive. To strike the perfect balance, Phoenix recommends the implementation of a DVSA-approved online theoretical course rather than using the official Theory and Hazard Perception Test.”
“The benefit of the DVSA course would be that it could be delivered at the training organisations, where the learners could be properly coached to be ready for the test. The official Theory and Hazard Perception Test is currently not suitable for many learners who struggle with language, SEN, or anxiety about a test in an isolated environment away from the training organisation. Using a DVSA-approved online course would lead to better learning, more inclusivity and a gentler road into motorcycling.”
Another element of change that Mark is hesitant about is the cap on the number of times a rider can renew their CBT. The cap is theoretically supposed to steer riders towards the ladder of motorcycle training, effectively forcing them onto bigger and better things and more advanced training. From Mark’s point of view, it could actually force people off bikes altogether, or worse, towards riding unlicensed, and in some cases, illegal bikes.
“Another potential problem with the strategy suggestions is capping the number of times a learner can renew their CBT. For similar reasons as with the theory test, not all learners are able to take the formal theory tests, and because of this, renewing CBT is their only opportunity to keep riding.”
“If the issues of theory test and renewing CBTs are not carefully considered, there is a risk of people who struggle with the test element and other requirements of full licence training turning to using illegal eBikes with no training, insurance or a need for a licence.”
There were other sections of the proposals that Mark was more positive about, including the requirement for all motorcycle instructors to undertake a nationally recognised teaching qualification as part of their training, something that he points out is already standard practice at Phoenix. As with any sweeping change to complex legislation, though, it’s how the changes are consulted and delivered that really matters.
“Phoenix welcomes the main aims of the strategy, but calls for careful consideration of how the elements related to CBT theory tests and renewals are to be implemented. We will be working closely with the DVSA and DfT as the review progresses, to ensure that outcomes are appropriate for rider training, and we will also work in conjunction with the Driving Instructors Association (DIA), Motorcycle Industry Association (MCIA) and National Motorcyclists Council (NMC) to support their work in these areas.”
None of the above-mentioned changes has been rubber-stamped yet, and it could be some time until that happens. The consultation is an opportunity for riders, trainers, and industry stakeholders to provide feedback. Given how central CBT and licensing are to UK motorcycling, a lot hinges on leaders in government understanding an activity that is alien to most of them.
You can find out more about Phoenix Motorcycle Training on the official website.
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Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!