Checked 12 October 2026. Prices are MotoEbikes listed prices on that date. Specifications are manufacturer figures unless stated otherwise. Licence guidance below concerns Great Britain.
Quick answer: Yes, the Stark VARG EX is a road-homologated model. But “road legal” does not automatically mean every VARG EX configuration can be ridden on a CBT or A1 licence. In Great Britain, the relevant motorcycle category depends on the bike’s registered classification and continuous/rated power, not simply the 60HP or 80HP peak-power label. Confirm the complete approved specification, including power-to-weight requirements, before relying on learner eligibility.
Road legal and CBT-compatible are not the same thing
There are two separate questions. First, is the motorcycle homologated and registered for road use? Second, does your licence entitlement cover the exact registered specification? The VARG EX answers the first question by being the road-homologated enduro member of the VARG family. The second question must be answered from the bike’s paperwork and your licence.
Why the 60HP and 80HP labels do not tell you the licence class
UK motorcycle licence categories use the vehicle’s rated or continuous power and other classification criteria. Peak-power marketing numbers answer a performance question; they are not a substitute for the registered continuous-power figure. This is especially important with electric motorcycles because a bike can advertise a much higher peak output than its registered continuous output.
Great Britain licence categories at a glance
| Route | Typical power limit | Minimum age | Important point |
|---|---|---|---|
| CBT learner route | Up to the learner/A1 motorcycle limit where the registered bike qualifies | 17 for motorcycles above moped class | L plates and learner restrictions apply; CBT normally expires after 2 years if a full test is not passed |
| A1 | Up to 11 kW, subject to the applicable power-to-weight rules | 17 | Full A1 entitlement removes learner restrictions for a qualifying bike |
| A2 | Up to 35 kW, subject to power-to-weight and derivation rules | 19 | Exact registered power still matters |
| A | Unrestricted motorcycle entitlement | Depends on access route | Direct and progressive access rules differ |
For the complete route through AM, A1, A2 and A, see our electric motorbike licence guide.
Can you ride a Stark VARG EX on a CBT?
Potentially, but only if the exact registered motorcycle falls within the learner category. For CBT or A1, check that the exact approved bike meets all the relevant category requirements, including power-to-weight limits; an 11 kW figure alone is not enough. Before riding, verify the bike’s V5C and Certificate of Conformity, the registered continuous/rated power, your CBT/licence entitlement, insurance, registration/tax status and any L-plate requirements.
Does buying the 80HP Alpha automatically mean you need an unrestricted licence?
No conclusion should be drawn from the 80HP peak label alone. Equally, you should not assume an 80HP-branded bike is automatically CBT-compatible. Ask for the documentation for the individual registered bike and use the continuous/rated figure shown there.
What equipment makes the EX road-homologated?
Road homologation means the road version is built and approved around the equipment and specification required for road use. The exact fitted equipment and registered configuration must remain compliant. If you are buying used or considering modifications, check that the motorcycle still matches its road-approved specification.
Can you de-restrict or change power settings and stay road legal?
Do not assume so. Changes to power, software, hardware or road equipment can affect insurance, licence compatibility, type approval or the basis on which the motorcycle was registered. Tell your insurer about relevant modifications and verify the legal position before using a modified bike on a public road.
Can a 16-year-old ride a VARG EX?
The learner motorcycle route up to 11 kW starts at age 17. Age 16 applies to the moped category, which is a different class. Do not treat an 11 kW electric motorcycle as a 16-year-old moped simply because it is electric.
Do you need insurance and registration?
Yes. A road-going motorcycle needs the appropriate registration, insurance and any other road-use requirements that apply to that vehicle and rider. A CBT certificate by itself does not replace those requirements.
Can you ride a road-legal VARG EX anywhere off road?
No. Road registration does not create a right to ride on footpaths, bridleways or private land without permission. Green lanes and byways must have motor-vehicle rights and can also be subject to temporary or permanent traffic restrictions. Check the status of the route before riding.
What should you ask the dealer before buying?
- What continuous/rated power is shown for this exact motorcycle?
- What vehicle category is shown on the registration documents?
- Does the exact approved specification meet every limit for my licence category?
- Which licence entitlement is required for this specific bike?
- Are the road equipment and homologation specification unchanged?
- What should your insurer be told about maps, options or modifications?
See the current VARG EX 60HP and VARG EX 80HP Alpha, or browse all Stark VARG models.
Three common buying mistakes
- Reading 80HP as a licence category. Peak output is a marketing specification, not a substitute for the approved classification.
- Reading 11 kW as the whole test. Category rules include other requirements, including power-to-weight limits. Confirm eligibility with the exact approval documents.
- Assuming a power slider changes approval. A user-selected setting is not proof that a modified or differently approved motorcycle qualifies for a licence category.
Check the paperwork before collection
Match the VIN on the bike to the documents and ask the supplier to explain any discrepancy. Get the insurer’s agreement for the actual model, use and modifications. If approval data and registration details are unclear or inconsistent, resolve them with the supplier and relevant authority before road use.
For registration procedure use DVLA’s new-registration guidance. For Northern Ireland licence requirements, consult nidirect.
Before you travel
If you want to see a VARG in person, check our test-ride page or contact MotoEbikes before travelling to the Guildford showroom.
Explore the Stark VARG advice hub or compare EX, MX 1.2 and SM.
Sources and verification
Technical specifications: Stark Future VARG EX. Prices: the linked MotoEbikes product pages, checked 12 October 2026. Road-use guidance: GOV.UK motorcycle categories, CBT and insurance requirements. This is a specification-based buying guide; it does not report a MotoEbikes road or range test.
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