What Motorcycle Can I Ride? A Complete UK Licence Guide

By Hailey Chen  •  November 5, 2026

Choosing your first motorcycle is exciting, but before you buy a bike, it is important to understand which motorcycles you are legally allowed to ride in the UK. The answer depends on several factors, including your age, driving licence category, motorcycle engine size and power output, and whether you have completed Compulsory Basic Training (CBT).

Whether you are 16 and considering your first moped, 17 and looking at a 125cc motorcycle, or an adult wondering whether your car licence allows you to ride a motorbike, understanding the UK motorcycle licence system will help you make the right decision.

So, what motorcycle can you ride in the UK?

The answer depends on your licence. With a CBT certificate, riders aged 17 or over can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc with a maximum power output of 11kW, provided they meet the learner restrictions. With an A2 licence, you can ride motorcycles producing up to 35kW. A full Category A licence allows you to ride motorcycles without these power restrictions.

In this guide, we explain what motorcycle you can ride at different ages, what each licence category allows, and how to choose a suitable bike for your experience and riding needs.

What Motorcycle Can I Ride in the UK?

In the UK, the motorcycle you can legally ride depends primarily on your motorcycle licence category.

There are four main motorcycle and moped categories: AM, A1, A2 and A. Each category has different age requirements and restrictions.

Here is a quick overview:

You can obtain a higher motorcycle licence through a direct access route or, in certain circumstances, a progressive access route after gaining experience with a lower category.

It is important to remember that engine size alone does not determine whether you can ride a motorcycle. Power output and power-to-weight ratio also matter.

For example, a motorcycle with a 125cc engine must still meet the relevant power restrictions to qualify for an A1 licence.

What Motorcycle Can I Ride at 16?

If you are 16 years old, your motorcycle options are limited to mopeds.

You can obtain a provisional moped licence, complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), and ride a suitable moped on public roads.

A Category AM licence covers two-wheeled mopeds with a maximum design speed of more than 25km/h but no more than 45km/h (approximately 28mph).

What Can You Ride at 16?

At 16, you can generally ride:

• A 50cc petrol moped that meets the relevant speed and category requirements.
• An eligible electric moped.
• Other vehicles covered by your Category AM entitlement.

You cannot ride a conventional 125cc motorcycle on public roads at 16 simply by completing CBT. You must wait until you are at least 17.

Do You Need CBT at 16?

Yes, in most cases.

Before riding a moped on public roads as a learner, you must:

1. Hold the appropriate provisional licence.
2. Complete a CBT course.
3. Display L plates (or D plates in Wales).
4. Have suitable insurance.

You must also follow the learner restrictions until you pass the relevant moped test.

What Motorcycle Can I Ride at 17?

At 17, you have more options.

Once you have completed CBT, you can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc with a maximum power output of 11kW (approximately 14.7bhp).

This is one of the most popular ways for new riders in the UK to start motorcycling.

What Can You Ride With CBT at 17?

With a valid CBT certificate and the correct provisional entitlement, you can ride:

• Motorcycles up to 125cc.
• Motorcycles producing no more than 11kW.
• Motorcycles meeting the applicable power-to-weight restrictions.

You must display L plates and cannot carry a pillion passenger or ride on motorways.

Your CBT certificate is normally valid for two years. If you do not pass the relevant full motorcycle test within that period, you must complete CBT again before continuing to ride under learner entitlement.

What Are Some Suitable 125cc Motorcycles?

Popular types of 125cc motorcycles for new riders include:

• Naked motorcycles: Practical for everyday commuting and city riding.
• Sports-style 125cc bikes: Suitable for riders who prefer a sportier appearance and riding position.
• Adventure-style 125cc bikes: Designed for a more upright riding position and versatile everyday use.
• 125cc scooters: Convenient for urban journeys and shorter commutes.

When choosing a 125cc motorcycle, consider seat height, weight, handling, riding position and maintenance costs rather than focusing only on appearance.

What Motorcycle Can I Ride at 19?

At 19, you become eligible to apply for a Category A2 motorcycle licence.

An A2 licence gives you access to a wider range of motorcycles than CBT or A1 entitlement.

You can ride motorcycles with:

• A maximum power output of 35kW (approximately 47bhp).
• A maximum power-to-weight ratio of 0.2kW per kg.
• An original power output no greater than twice the restricted power output.

You can also ride motorcycles covered by the A1 category.

How Do You Get an A2 Licence?

There are two main routes to obtaining an A2 licence.

Direct Access Route

If you are at least 19, you can apply directly for an A2 licence. You generally need to:

1. Hold the appropriate provisional motorcycle entitlement.
2. Complete CBT.
3. Pass the motorcycle theory test.
4. Pass Module 1 and Module 2 practical tests on a suitable A2 motorcycle.

Progressive Access Route

If you already hold a full A1 licence for at least two years, you can upgrade to A2 by passing the relevant practical tests.

An additional theory test is not normally required through this progressive route.

What Types of Motorcycles Can You Ride With A2?

An A2 licence opens up more choices, including:

• Mid-sized naked motorcycles.
• A2-compliant sports motorcycles.
• Suitable adventure motorcycles.
• Touring motorcycles that meet the power restrictions.

Some larger motorcycles can also be restricted to meet A2 requirements, provided they satisfy the legal power and restriction rules.

Always check the manufacturer's specifications and documentation before purchasing a restricted motorcycle.

What Motorcycle Can I Ride at 21?

At 21, you may qualify for a full Category A motorcycle licence through the progressive access route.

However, you cannot normally obtain an unrestricted Category A licence through direct access until you are 24.

To use progressive access, you must:

1. Hold a full A2 motorcycle licence for at least two years.
2. Pass the required Category A practical tests.

Once you have successfully obtained a full Category A licence, you can ride motorcycles without the A2 power restrictions.

What Motorcycle Can I Ride at 24?

At 24, you can apply for a full Category A motorcycle licence through the direct access route.

This is the highest standard motorcycle licence category in the UK.

A full Category A licence allows you to ride motorcycles of any engine size and power output, subject to general road regulations and vehicle requirements.

What Motorcycles Can You Ride With a Category A Licence?

With a full Category A licence, you can legally ride:

• 125cc motorcycles.
• Mid-sized motorcycles.
• Large-capacity sports bikes.
• Adventure motorcycles.
• Touring motorcycles.
• High-performance superbikes.

There is no Category A motorcycle power limit.

However, having an unrestricted licence does not necessarily mean a powerful motorcycle is the best choice for a new rider.

If you are relatively inexperienced, consider your riding ability, physical confidence, motorcycle weight and intended use before choosing a high-performance bike.

What Motorcycle Can I Ride With a CBT?

Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) is an essential step for most people who want to ride a motorcycle or moped on public roads in the UK.

It is not a full motorcycle licence. Instead, it allows eligible learners to ride within specific restrictions while gaining experience.

After completing CBT, you can ride:

You must:

• Display L plates (or D plates in Wales).
• Have valid motorcycle insurance.
• Keep your CBT certificate valid.
• Avoid carrying passengers.
• Stay off motorways.

A CBT certificate normally lasts for two years.

If you want to continue riding after it expires, you must either pass the relevant full motorcycle test or complete CBT again.

Can You Ride a 125cc Motorcycle With CBT?

Yes.

If you are at least 17 and have completed CBT, you can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc with a maximum power output of 11kW.

However, you must also hold the appropriate provisional entitlement and follow all learner restrictions.

A 125cc motorcycle is a popular choice for commuting, learning road skills and gaining experience before progressing to a full motorcycle licence.

What Motorcycle Can I Ride With a Full Car Licence?

Having a full UK car driving licence does not automatically allow you to ride a 125cc motorcycle.

This is a common misunderstanding among new riders.

If you passed your car driving test on or after 1 February 2001, you will generally need to obtain the appropriate provisional motorcycle entitlement and complete CBT before riding a motorcycle as a learner.

Once you have completed CBT, you can ride a motorcycle up to 125cc and 11kW if you are at least 17 and meet the learner requirements.

You must still display L plates and follow the restrictions that apply to CBT riders.

What If You Passed Your Car Test Before 1 February 2001?

There is an important exception.

If you passed your car driving test before 1 February 2001, you can generally ride a moped up to 50cc without completing CBT.

However, this does not automatically give you the right to ride a 125cc motorcycle.

You should check your actual driving licence entitlements before riding.

Motorcycle Licence Categories Explained

Understanding the differences between motorcycle licence categories makes it easier to choose a suitable motorcycle and plan your training.

Here is a more detailed comparison.

Remember that A1 and A2 licences are not based solely on engine capacity.

A motorcycle must meet the relevant power and power-to-weight requirements to qualify.

How to Choose the Right Motorcycle for Your Licence

Knowing what you can legally ride is only the first step. You also need to choose a motorcycle that suits your experience, riding environment and everyday needs.

Here are five important factors to consider.

1. Engine Size and Power

Your licence determines the maximum motorcycle power and engine capacity you can ride.

Do not assume that a smaller engine always means a motorcycle is suitable for your licence. Check the actual power output and power-to-weight ratio.

2. Motorcycle Weight

A motorcycle's weight can affect how easy it is to manoeuvre, park and control at low speeds.

For beginners, a lighter motorcycle can be easier to handle, especially when practising slow-speed turns or moving the bike around a parking space.

3. Riding Position

Different motorcycle styles have different riding positions.

• Naked bikes: Usually offer an upright riding position.
• Sports bikes: Typically have a more forward-leaning position.
• Adventure bikes: Often provide an upright position and higher seat.
• Scooters: Generally offer step-through designs and convenient urban usability.

Try sitting on different motorcycles before making a purchase.

4. Insurance and Running Costs

Motorcycle insurance premiums can vary considerably depending on:

• Your age and riding experience.
• Motorcycle make and model.
• Engine size and power.
• Where the motorcycle is kept.
• Annual mileage.
• Previous claims and riding history.

Also consider fuel, servicing, tyres, replacement parts and protective equipment.

5. Your Intended Use

Think about how you plan to use your motorcycle. For example:

• Daily commuting: Consider a lightweight, economical motorcycle.
• Weekend riding: A comfortable naked or sports-style bike may suit your needs.
• Longer journeys: Consider a touring or adventure motorcycle.
• Learning to ride: A manageable 125cc motorcycle can be a practical starting point.

If you plan to travel further on your bike, it is worth learning about preparing for a motorcycle road trip so you can plan your route, equipment and essential checks before setting off.

The best motorcycle is not necessarily the most powerful one. It is the one that matches your licence, experience and riding requirements.

Essential Motorcycle Safety and Maintenance Tips

Regardless of which motorcycle you can legally ride, regular maintenance and appropriate protective equipment are essential.

Before every ride, take a few minutes to check the condition of your motorcycle.

Check Your Tyres

Motorcycle tyres play an important role in braking, cornering and overall stability.

Check:

• Tyre pressure.
• Tread depth.
• Visible cracks or damage.
• Signs of uneven wear.

Always follow the tyre pressure recommendations in your motorcycle's owner's manual.

Motorcycle tyres also wear over time, depending on riding habits, road conditions and maintenance. Find out how long motorcycle tyres last and when they may need replacing.

Check Your Brakes

Your brakes must be in good working condition before you ride.

Look for signs of:

• Unusual brake lever movement.
• Reduced braking performance.
• Brake fluid leaks.
• Worn brake pads.
• Unusual noises.

If something does not feel right, have your motorcycle inspected by a qualified mechanic.

If your brakes feel spongy, air may have entered the hydraulic braking system. Learn more about how to bleed motorcycle brakes, or have a qualified mechanic inspect the system.

Check Your Motorcycle Battery

A healthy motorcycle battery helps ensure reliable starting and supports the electrical system.

If your motorcycle struggles to start, the battery may be discharged or approaching the end of its service life.

Check the battery terminals for corrosion and make sure the connections are secure.

If you need to recharge your battery, always use a compatible motorcycle battery charger and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Our guide explains how to charge a motorcycle battery safely and correctly.

Maintain Your Motorcycle Chain

If your motorcycle has a chain drive, regular cleaning and lubrication help maintain its condition.

Dirt, road grime and inadequate lubrication can contribute to chain wear. Check the chain condition and tension according to your motorcycle manufacturer's recommendations.

For practical maintenance advice, read our guide to cleaning your motorcycle chain.

Wear Appropriate Protective Equipment

A suitable motorcycle helmet is a legal requirement when riding on UK roads.

You should also consider wearing:

• Motorcycle gloves.
• Protective motorcycle jackets.
• Reinforced riding trousers.
• Motorcycle boots.
• High-visibility clothing where appropriate.

Good protective equipment can help reduce the risk of injury in an accident.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts