MOTORBIKES BUYING YOUR FIRST ONE

However, before you can even think about hitting the open road Easy Rider style you have to take some training. Whether you want a basic 125cc scooter, an all singing, all dancing chrome-laden Harley Davidson, or a Carl Fogarty race rep, if you haven't got a bike licence there's no way you can ride. All new riders, regardless of age and motoring experience, are required to undergo Compulsory Basic Training (CBT).

The idea of the CBT is to familiarise new riders with the way that a motorcycle behaves and how to ride safely. The course usually only takes a day and the first part is done away from public roads, leaving you free from the stresses of riding on the street.

Once new riders have their full licence, they're restricted to a bike with a power output of no more than 33bhp, for two years. However, if you are over 21 you can take your test on a much larger bike and go straight onto any size of bike, once you have gained your full licence. Though, you can still only ride machines up to 125cc while awaiting your test. This procedure is known as Direct Access (or DAS). As you can see, both your age and experience affect your choice of bike. Next you have to sit down and ask yourself some serious questions and be realistic with your answers.

What sort of riding are you planning on doing? If you are going to ride to work along crowded city streets a super scooter or naked bike, will be far more practical than a race replica sports bike. While a dirt bike may be great in the mud, is it going to be any good to you if you plan on regularly touring with a passenger?

You also need to be realistic about what you can ride and what you can afford. If you only passed your test a month ago, it would be lunacy to buy a 200mph Yamaha R1. After all, these machines are deigned to be ridden by seasoned riders, who have climbed the ladder o...