Chances are if you are looking to take your CBT Training then you also have your eye on a scooter or motorcycle. You only have to open up a scooter or bike mag and you can immediately see that there is just so much choice. It is easy to want more than one, in fact I remember my short list being far far too long. So how do you cool your motor and pick the right bike for you?

Well the first thing to think about is how you are going to use it? After taking your CBT will it be a weekend fun machine, a commuter vehicle, or your sole means of transport? Answering this question can help you to write a list of ‘must have’ items. For example if you are planning on commuting how will you carry your work clothes?

What size engine will you need? Well, if you are just starting out then you may well be restricted to a 50cc anyway, but if not you will want to think about the speed of the roads you travel on. For example if you ride from home to work in a constant stream of traffic then a 50cc might be more than enough and also safe you some money. If you ride on more open roads then the extra power of a 125cc might help to stay with the flow of traffic and keep you safer.

Do you want a geared machine or a twist and go? If you are planning on getting your bike licence then a geared motorcycle is the way to go, but if not then a scooter or moped might be fine for your needs.

What size do you need? There is no point buying a tiny machine if you are a big person. The only way to really tell how you are going to fit and feel on it is to get around to a few dealers and try some for size. Ok, you may not want a new one, but even just visiting a dealer will give you an idea of the other services they offer (many of which you may need in the future).

What is your budget? I always think it is better to get a good quality second hand bike than a new low quality one. Remember the budget is not just for the initial purchase, but the price and availability of spares and servicing afterwards. Waiting a few weeks for a part might not seem that bad, but if I added up the money it would cost me to get the train to work each day then it soon adds up.

I am sure you have your ideal bike or scooter in mind, use the time before your CBT to work out what you need, go and see some and calculate your budget. You might find that something you hadn’t even thought of just feels ‘right’ to you.