Completed my CBT at the Crystal Palace training center yesterday. Marc was an extremely positive and encouraging instructor who provided wonderful guidance and clear instructions (and plenty of dad j... See more
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Great staff all very friendly and patient throughout my TryRides and CBT. Didn’t feel afraid to ask questions or spend extra time completing a set of instructions as a new rider. would definitely reco... See more
Company replied
After a few years of non riding. I was a little apprehensive in getting back on a bike again to repeat CBT. But I didn’t need to worry. I had completed my CBT previously twice over the years at an... See more
Company replied
Darren, one of the instructors, was so amazing,accommodating and really helpful with my son who has additional needs. He took the time to explain and breakdown instructions to him and gave him the o... See more
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Company details
About Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Written by the company
Phoenix Motorcycle Training is the UK’s Highest Rated Training School, providing quality motorcycle lessons at competitive prices across the UK. All motorcycle instructors are trained to Level 3 Motorcycle Rider Training Instructor (MRTI) level. Riders who train with us benefit from our adaptable and supportive training techniques.
Our motorcycle training centres offer motorcycle CBT courses, CBT renewal training, motorcycle training for Mod 1 and Mod 2 of the UK motorcycle licence test and teach students how to ride a motorcycle safely, confidently and competently on UK roads. With motorcycle training schools across the UK, there is sure to be a training centre near you!
When you learn to ride a motorbike with us, you’ll reach test standards in the shortest and most cost-effective way possible.
Our motorcycle training centres offer motorcycle CBT courses, CBT renewal training, motorcycle training for Mod 1 and Mod 2 of the UK motorcycle licence test and teach students how to ride a motorcycle safely, confidently and competently on UK roads. With motorcycle training schools across the UK, there is sure to be a training centre near you!
When you learn to ride a motorbike with us, you’ll reach test standards in the shortest and most cost-effective way possible.
Contact info
Ledrington Road, Ledrington Road, SE19 2BB, London, England, United Kingdom
- 020 8819 4231
Compulsory Basic Training (CBT)
4.8
Excellent
1K reviews
Asks customers to review
This company invites their customers to review, whether positive or negative
Replied to 92% of negative reviews
Typically replies within 24 hours
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The instructor was incredible.
The instructor was incredible. Really chill guy and didn't push us too quickly. Will be back for my DAS in the near future!!
22 September 2026
Great CBT Experience
Completed my CBT at the Crystal Palace training center yesterday. Marc was an extremely positive and encouraging instructor who provided wonderful guidance and clear instructions (and plenty of dad jokes!). I could not have asked for a better experience and will definitely come back for future training. Many thanks to Marc!
19 September 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your fantastic review! We're delighted to hear you had such a positive experience completing your CBT at Crystal Palace. Marc will be thrilled to hear his encouragement, guidance, and dad jokes made such an impact. We look forward to welcoming you back for your future training. Ride safe! 🏍️👍
After a few years of non riding
After a few years of non riding. I was a little apprehensive in getting back on a bike again to repeat CBT.
But I didn’t need to worry. I had completed my CBT previously twice over the years at another centre, but this place was different. Really supportive training and guidance.
Even have the bug to get a bike again. And progress to my DAS over next six months.
Thank you.
29 August 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your fantastic review! We're delighted to hear our supportive training and guidance helped rebuild your confidence after time away from riding. It's great to know you've caught the biking bug again, and we look forward to supporting you on your journey towards DAS. Safe riding, and see you soon!
Very knowledgeable staff
Very knowledgeable staff. Very accommodating and personable.
16 September 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We’re delighted to hear that our team was knowledgeable, accommodating, and personable. We truly appreciate your kind words and look forward to welcoming you again soon.
Great staff all very friendly and…
Great staff all very friendly and patient throughout my TryRides and CBT. Didn’t feel afraid to ask questions or spend extra time completing a set of instructions as a new rider. would definitely recommend the Crystal Palace branch
14 September 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your fantastic feedback! We're delighted to hear that our team made you feel comfortable and supported throughout your TryRides and CBT. Wishing you safe and enjoyable riding, and thank you for recommending our Crystal Palace branch! 🏍️😊
From TryRide to CBT
Enjoyable experience from the TryRide to taking my CBT, have to give a special thank you to & highly recommend Sam in particular as under his tutelage as a novice i felt nothing but warmth & the confidence he was genuinely invested in my development & improvement.
4 September 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your fantastic review! We're delighted you enjoyed both your TryRide and CBT experience. Sam will be thrilled to hear your kind words. Congratulations on your progress, and we wish you safe and enjoyable riding ahead! 🚀🏍️
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your kind feedback. Your considerate, patient, and supportive approach is greatly appreciated and has made a positive difference.
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your kind feedback! We're delighted you enjoyed our friendly team, our new bikes, and our fantastic location. We hope to see you again soon!
Great experience for beginners or those renewing CBT
From start to finish, this was a great experience, from the staff to the course and contents
Our first instructor gave us a lot more knowledge than I believe I’ve had before, which was very helpful
The practical skills testing was extremely thorough and helped all the students gain confidence and both instructors did it with patience and understanding for the different levels of experience
On the street drive our instructor was patient, gave good clear instructions and helpful suggestions to extend the knowledge we had
I would highly recommend this company for CBT, as well as switching from auto to manual(few on the course )
and I look forward to using my 2 hour 121 driving with an instructor
5 September 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your fantastic feedback! We're delighted you enjoyed the course and found both instructors knowledgeable, patient, and supportive. It's great to hear your confidence grew throughout the training. We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to seeing you again for your 1-to-1 driving session. Safe riding!
Great instructors
Great instructors, the whole day was clearly laid out and I highly recommend
5 September 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your kind feedback. We're delighted to hear that you found the instructors engaging and the day well organised. We appreciate your recommendation and hope to welcome you again in the future.
Darren
Darren, one of the instructors, was so amazing,accommodating and really helpful with my son who has additional needs. He took the time to explain and breakdown instructions to him and gave him the opportunity to ask questions when he was unsure. I can't thank him enough.
The staff on the phone, again, were so helpful and relaid any concerns I had to the instructor.
On a whole I cannot fault Phoenix Motorcycle Training at all.
4 September 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We're delighted to hear Darren provided such supportive and patient instruction for your son. We'll be sure to pass on your kind words to him and our office team. Your recommendation means a great deal to us.
Great training for CBT
Very pleased with the friendly and professional assistance Phoenix gave me to get through CBT. Easy booking process with good availability of dates. Really useful tips on how to build confidence/control on a motorbike. Looking forward to developing big bike skills with them.
4 September 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear you found the booking process easy and our training friendly, professional, and confidence-building. We look forward to helping you develop your big bike skills and continue your riding journey. Safe riding! 🏍️👍
Mark made everyone very relaxed and…
Mark made everyone very relaxed and knows his stuff , made the day go really smooth .
31 August 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your feedback. We're delighted to hear that Mark helped create a relaxed atmosphere and that his expertise ensured the day ran smoothly. We'll be sure to share your kind comments with him.
Had a great experience with Phoenix…
Had a great experience with Phoenix Motorcycle Training. Steve was patient, professional and gave clear, helpful instructions throughout the day. I had around a year’s riding experience abroad several years ago, so I was quite rusty getting back on a bike, but Steve really helped build my confidence.
Despite struggling with the U-turn, I passed my CBT and came away feeling much more confident. I’d definitely recommend Phoenix to anyone looking to get into motorcycling
30 August 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your fantastic review! We're delighted to hear that Steve's patient, professional instruction helped rebuild your confidence and get you through your CBT. Congratulations on passing, and we wish you many safe and enjoyable miles ahead. Thanks for recommending Phoenix Motorcycle Training!
Thank you to the Phoenix team for…
Thank you to the Phoenix team for helping me get my full license first time! Pleasure working with you all Wynn, Sam, Marc and Phil, despite giving them a few jump scares haha. Since working with Phoenix my road discipline has improved dramatically and I can’t thank the instructors enough guiding me every step of the way through my Mod 1 and Mod 2. I highly recommend taking the courses as they don’t spare no expense on your learning and trust me they will make sure you’re headed in the right direction. Once more thank you to the team and can’t wait to go on adventures on a bigger bike!
26 August 2026
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thanks for the fantastic review! Congratulations on passing first time. It was a pleasure helping you through your Mod 1 and Mod 2. Ride safe, enjoy your new adventures, and we hope to see you again soon! 🏍️👏
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're delighted to hear you received five-star service. Your recommendation means a great deal to us, and we truly appreciate your support. We look forward to seeing you again soon. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Do not respond to website enquiries
Ive contacted Phoenix through the website twice now and they haven't gotten back to me even though the website promises a response in 8 hours. Not going to use their service now. What is the point of online enquiries if they dont respond. Ill find a better company.
19 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for taking the time to leave a review.
We take all customer enquiries seriously, so we investigated your comments against our enquiry records. While we cannot verify your email address from the information provided in your review, we do have a record of an enquiry under your name that matches the dates you mention.
Our records show that your first enquiry was received on 9 June 2026 at 18:20, and we replied on 10 June 2026 at 09:11. When we did not receive a response, we sent a follow-up email on 25 June 2026 at 12:29.
A further enquiry was received on 16 August 2026 at 18:15, and we replied on 18 August 2026 at 10:11. While this was outside our usual response target, we had previously responded promptly and had not received any replies to our earlier emails.
We have since received another enquiry from you on 18 August 2026 at 18:42. Our advertised 8-hour response time applies during normal business hours, and at the time of your review we had not yet had the opportunity to respond.
Based on the information available, it appears our emails may not be reaching you, or may be being filtered into a spam or junk folder. We would be very happy to help and would encourage you to call us directly on 0330 223 4000 so we can discuss your requirements and ensure you receive the information you need.
We are sorry that your experience has been frustrating and hope we can resolve this communication issue for you.
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for your kind review. We are glad to hear you enjoyed your time with our instructors and hope to see you again
Worst CBT ever !!! never Again
I went here on Saturday 8th 2026
My instructor was MARC
I have done 5 successful CBT's before this and none of them came anywhere near as bad as this one (Horrific)
The instructor attempted to have me removed from the CBT for asking him to demonstrate maneuver saying "your being hard to deal with and cheeky"
He also decided to lambast an italian national who was on the course as he could not understand the way the italian chap was describing things and taking his instructions due to the language barrier and the almost laughable audio equipment provided #1970's equipment
Another RED flag was when preparing for the road assessment i explained that the audio from the headphone provided was very loud and treble high so i asked MARC if i could adjust the volume to which he very rudely responded "No don't touch it its set how it is and if you do and get he instructions wrong on the ride i'll fail you"
At the end of the cbt i then asked MARC when or where can i check if my CBT has been posted to the relevant database or DSA just so i can check as i had been pulled over by the police before and it stated my CBT was not appearing on the police database
MARCS response was for every iteration i made of that question a blanket "No You Can't" no context no other alternative opton or advice on what to do or check just a flat out NO you cant.
How this guys still got this job i have no idea but i would not reccomend this company or the Crystal Palace site as it was poorly looked after and smelled unhealthy to sit and breathe in them rooms and the instructor just topped it off with his bad personality and horrid customer service skills.
You should never leave a place of learning livid angry or feeling insulted and made to feel unintelligent and March gets a gold star for bringing up these feelings.
#NeverEverAgain
8 August 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Phoenix Motorcycle Training - Crystal Palace
Thank you for taking the time to leave your feedback. We are sorry to hear that you were dissatisfied with your experience on the day.
At Phoenix Motorcycle Training, our primary responsibility is the safety and wellbeing of all trainees. As part of this, our instructors are required to ensure that appropriate riding equipment is worn and that all riders follow the training methods and procedures set out within the CBT syllabus. While we appreciate that you have completed CBT training previously, our instructors must deliver the course in accordance with current standards and safety requirements.
Having reviewed the events of the day with the instructor and office team, it is clear that there were several occasions where there was disagreement regarding training techniques and instructions, presumably based on your previous experiences with other providers that maybe do not follow the latest high standards expected by the DVSA. Our instructor's recollection is that he took additional time to explain the reasoning behind specific riding exercises and safety procedures, and ultimately demonstrated the manoeuvre you requested. He also raised concerns with the office early in the day due to what he perceived as ongoing resistance to instruction and a confrontational attitude.
We would like to clarify that any adjustments made during the road ride, including rider positioning and communication equipment settings, are done with safety as the overriding consideration. Similarly, where additional support is provided to a trainee whose first language is not English, this is solely to ensure clear communication and the safety of everyone participating in the course.
Regarding your question about CBT records, CBT certificates are recorded digitally by the training school and there is currently no public database available for riders to independently verify their certificate status. However, our office team is always happy to assist with any queries regarding certification and records.
We regret that you felt uncomfortable, frustrated, or disrespected during your training. While we do not agree with several aspects of your account, we accept that your experience did not meet your expectations, which were possibly set by previous training standards. We expect professionalism and respect from both our instructors and our customers, and constructive communication is essential to creating a safe and productive learning environment.
We appreciate your feedback and will continue to review our processes, facilities, and customer experience to ensure we maintain the high standards expected of Phoenix Motorcycle Training.
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