Getting Your First 125cc Motorcycle:

For many young riders in the UK, getting a 125cc motorcycle is an exciting milestone. These bikes provide a great introduction to the world of motorcycling, offering the perfect balance of power and control. However, before hitting the road, it’s essential new riders understand the legal requirements, licensing process, and key factors to consider when choosing their first 125cc motorcycle.

In the UK, anyone aged 17 or over can ride a 125cc motorcycle on public roads, provided they meet the necessary legal requirements.

The first requirement is to hold a valid driving licence. For young riders this can be a provisional drivers license, or for those who have already passed their driving test, a full driving license also qualifies.

All riders need to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course. This allows you to ride a 125cc bike with ‘L’ plates for up to 2 years, though there are some restrictions that apply. The CBT is designed to ensure new riders have the essential skills to ride safely on public roads, but it’s not a formal test with a pass/fail; it's more about proving you're competent to ride on the road.

If your priority is to shed those ‘L’ plates and get the official endorsement on your license, or you're keen to upgrade your bike beyond 125cc, you’ll need to pass your full theory and motorbike test. More on that in a bit.

The CBT course technically isn’t a test but rather a structured training programme that must be completed before you can legally ride on the road. Despite it not being a formal test, your instructor still needs to be confident in your ability before they’ll issue a certificate of completion. It helps to have ridden bikes before, of course, and know the basics of your bike, as well as more practical points of what to wear for the conditions.

1. Introduction and Eyesight Check – Riders are given an overview of motorcycle safety, the Highway Code, and essential riding principles.
2. Off-Road Training – Learning the basic controls of a motorcycle in a controlled environment.
3. Off-Road Riding – Practicing manoeuvres such as braking, turning, and slow-speed control.
4. On-Road Theory – Understanding road positioning, hazard perception, and safe riding practices.
5. On-Road Riding – A minimum of two hours riding on public roads under the supervision of an instructor.

After completing the CBT, your instructor will issue a certificate (also known as a DL196), which is valid for two years. If you don’t progress to pass a full motorcycle test within that period, then you’ll have to head back to nearest disused airfield or school playground to retake your CBT to allow you to continue riding on the road.

After completing the CBT, all riders must display ‘L’ plates (you know the ones, the bright red ‘L’ on a white square) on the front and rear of their motorcycle. Riding with ‘L’ plates means you’re not allowed to carry passengers or ride on motorways, with these restrictions in place until you pass your full motorcycle test.

Selecting the right 125cc bike is an important and exciting step for new riders. Here are some key considerations:

1. Seat Height and Comfort

Riders should ensure they can sit on the bike with both feet comfortably touching the ground. A bike that is too tall or too heavy can be difficult to control, especially for beginners.

2. Engine Type: Two-Stroke vs. Four-Stroke

Most modern 125cc bikes use four-stroke engines, which are more fuel-efficient and easier to maintain. However, some older two-stroke models offer higher performance but require more maintenance.

3. Reliability and Cost of Maintenance

Choosing a well-known, reliable brand can reduce the chances of frequent breakdowns. Brands like KTM offer solid options with a proven pedigree and reliability. It’s also wise to check the cost of servicing, parts, and insurance before making a purchase.

Buying a new bike will typically include a manufacturer's warranty which can reduce ongoing costs. All KTM’s new bikes enjoy 4 years warranty and an incredible 8 years roadside assistance! Plus, there’s the option to buy with finance on competitive or promotional rates for a great deal.

4. Style and Purpose

There are different styles of 125cc motorcycles, including:

• Sports bikes – Sleek and stylish, but may have a more aggressive riding position. The KTM RC125 includes dramatic MotoGP inspired styling and looks the absolute business.
• Naked bikes – A balance between sport and comfort, with an upright riding position. The 2025 KTM 125 DUKE boasts a muscled-up attitude with a great tech offering.
• Hybrid bikes – Taller, more rugged, and capable of off-road riding, the KTM 125 Enduro R is all about fun with Enduro inspired styling.

5. New vs. Used Bikes

New bikes come with warranties and the latest technology, but they are of course more expensive. A used bike can be a great option for beginners, but it’s essential to check for service history, mileage, and any signs of past damage.

Competitive KTM finance options are always worth exploring to help reduce the cost of ownership over the longer term.

Riding gear is just as important as the motorcycle itself. A well-fitting road legal helmet (meeting UK safety standards), gloves, a motorcycle jacket, trousers, and sturdy boots provide essential protection. These are all things that you’ll be asked to demonstrate your knowledge of in your CBT and hopefully just by turning up in the right gear you’ll inspire confidence with your instructor.

Additionally, insurance is a legal requirement, and new riders should compare quotes to find the best deal for their budget and needs.

After getting their first 125cc bike and completing the CBT, new riders should focus on gaining experience. Practicing in quiet areas, understanding road conditions, and taking extra training courses, such as an advanced riding course, can help build confidence and improve skills.

For those who wish to move beyond a 125cc bike, they can progress to the A1 licence (allowing them to ride a 125cc bike without ‘L’ plates), then the A2 licence (for larger motorcycles), and eventually the full Category A licence, which permits riding any size of motorcycle.

For those new riders living close to Triple D Motosport, we recommend you head over to Northern Route to find CBT training in Cumbria. The courses are run in the grounds of Queen Katherine School in Kendal during weekends and school holidays, and in Barrow seven days a week.

Getting a 125cc motorcycle is an exciting step into the world of motorcycling, but it’s essential to follow all legal requirements and complete the necessary training.

Head down to Triple D where we’ve got the experience of helping new riders choose a bike that suits their needs. You’ll meet our friendly team, get to chat about some of the ‘bling’ you can add to your new bike, as well as find out about local bike meetups where you can ride alongside and learn from more experienced riders.