🚦 New to Riding? Here’s What You Can Ride with a CBT
If you’ve just passed your Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) in the UK, you’re probably wondering what kind of electric bike you’re actually allowed to ride.
In short:
- You can ride bikes or scooters with power equivalent to up to 125cc (around 11kW or 15bhp),
- You’ll need to display L plates and can’t carry a passenger,
- And the CBT certificate lasts two years — unless you upgrade to a full licence before then.
The good news? There’s now a growing list of electric motorbikes and scooters that fit this criteria, and some of them are brilliant.
⚡ Why Choose Electric?
Electric bikes aren’t just eco-friendly — they’re also practical, cost-effective, and in many cases, more fun than you’d expect.
Here’s why new riders are making the switch:
- You can charge them at home (or even at work),
- There’s no road tax or ULEZ charge,
- Running costs are far lower than petrol,
- And the instant torque makes them great in traffic.
🏆 Our Picks: 7 Best CBT‑Legal Electric Motorbikes in 2025
Here are some of the most promising options currently available — all legal to ride on a UK CBT licence.
1. Maeving RM1
- 💷 Price: From £4,995
- 🔋 Range: 40–80 miles (1 or 2 battery setup)
- ⚡ Top speed: 45mph
Hand-built in Coventry, the Maeving RM1 is a stunning retro electric bike that turns heads wherever it goes. With classic café racer styling, removable batteries and a smooth ride, it’s a British-made winner for urban commuting.
Best for: Design lovers who want something local, stylish, and practical.
2. Super Soco TC Max
- 💷 Price: From £4,499
- 🔋 Range: Around 60 miles
- ⚡ Top speed: Up to 65mph
The TC Max pushes the upper edge of what a CBT licence allows — so do double-check with your insurer. That said, it’s quick, well-built, and looks the part. Ideal for anyone who wants a bit more punch in a learner-legal machine.
Best for: Riders who want petrol-bike performance without the fuel bill.
3. Yadea G5 Pro
- 💷 Price: ~£3,400
- 🔋 Range: ~55 miles
- ⚡ Top speed: 50mph
Yadea is a newer name in the UK, but this scooter-style model is worth a look. With a quiet ride and removable battery, it’s perfect for college runs, work commutes or city errands.
Best for: Students and city dwellers who need reliable, no-fuss transport.
4. Horwin EK3
- 💷 Price: £4,099
- 🔋 Range: ~60 miles
- ⚡ Top speed: 60mph
Built for comfort and practicality, the EK3 is one of the better-looking electric scooters in its class. There’s a full LED lighting setup, keyless start, and a surprising amount of under-seat storage.
Best for: Commuters who want a premium-feeling ride on a budget.
5. NIU MQi GT EVO
- 💷 Price: £4,699
- 🔋 Range: ~46 miles
- ⚡ Top speed: 62mph
Smart, connected, and fast-charging — NIU has done well in cities across Europe, and the MQi GT EVO is a solid choice for UK riders. The companion app is handy too, with GPS tracking and trip stats.
Best for: Tech fans and commuters who want a feature-rich scooter.
6. Silence S01 Connected
- 💷 Price: ~£5,600
- 🔋 Range: 60–70 miles
- ⚡ Top speed: 62mph
This Spanish import has quietly built a following in the UK. The standout feature? A trolley-style battery you can roll inside and plug in anywhere. It’s fast, clever, and ready for urban life.
Best for: Apartment owners and commuters who don’t have driveway charging.
7. Sunra Miku Super
- 💷 Price: £3,299
- 🔋 Range: ~60 miles
- ⚡ Top speed: 50mph
Love it or hate it, the Miku Super definitely stands out. With its futuristic frame and scooter-motorbike hybrid look, it’s a great conversation starter — and more practical than it looks.
Best for: Young riders and people who want something that’s not boring.
📊 Quick Comparison
| Model | Price | Range | Top Speed | Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maeving RM1 | £4,995 | 40–80 mi | 45 mph | Retro Café |
| Super Soco TC Max | £4,499 | 60 mi | 65 mph | Vintage Sport |
| Yadea G5 Pro | £3,400 | 55 mi | 50 mph | Urban Scooter |
| Horwin EK3 | £4,099 | 60 mi | 60 mph | Commuter Scooter |
| NIU MQi GT EVO | £4,699 | 46 mi | 62 mph | Smart Scooter |
| Silence S01 | £5,600 | 60–70 mi | 62 mph | Urban Commuter |
| Sunra Miku Super | £3,299 | 60 mi | 50 mph | Futuristic Hybrid |