Last checked: 16 September 2026. Applies to Great Britain unless stated otherwise. Specifications and legal classifications can change, and entitlement depends on the exact registered motorcycle.
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. MotoEbikes currently lists an 11 kW road-legal configuration as suitable for eligible A1/CBT riders aged 17+, subject to registration, insurance and learner requirements.
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. MotoEbikes currently lists an 11 kW road-legal configuration as A1/CBT-compatible for eligible riders aged 17+. 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?
- Is this the 11 kW road-legal configuration?
- 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.
Stark VARG EX road-legality FAQs
Is the Stark VARG EX road legal in the UK?
The EX is Stark’s road-homologated enduro VARG. UK use still depends on the exact registered bike being correctly registered, insured and ridden by someone with the correct entitlement.
Can I ride a Stark VARG EX on a CBT?
Only where the exact registered configuration falls within the learner category. MotoEbikes lists an 11 kW road-legal configuration as A1/CBT-compatible for eligible riders aged 17+.
Is the 80HP VARG EX legal on a CBT?
Peak horsepower is not the legal classification number. Check the individual bike’s registered continuous/rated power and documentation before deciding.
What does continuous power mean?
It is the rated power figure used for vehicle classification rather than a short-duration peak-output claim. It is the relevant figure to check when matching an electric motorcycle to licence categories.
Do I need L plates on CBT?
Yes, learner requirements including L plates apply when riding on CBT rather than a full motorcycle licence, subject to the normal Great Britain rules.
Can I carry a passenger on CBT?
No. CBT learner restrictions do not permit carrying a pillion passenger.
Can I ride on a motorway on CBT?
No. Learner riders on CBT cannot ride on motorways.
Do I need insurance?
Yes. A road-going motorcycle must be appropriately insured.
Does the bike need to be registered?
Yes. Road use requires the motorcycle to be correctly registered.
What paperwork should I see before buying?
Ask for the vehicle registration information and Certificate of Conformity details relevant to the exact bike, especially the registered class and continuous/rated power.
Is the VARG MX road legal?
The VARG MX is the motocross-focused member of the range. Do not treat it as equivalent to the road-homologated EX. See the Stark VARG range for the current model split.
Is the VARG SM road legal?
The VARG SM is Stark’s supermoto road-focused model. Its registration and licence requirements still depend on the exact UK specification and documents.
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.
Sources and verification
Stark model-positioning claims are checked against Stark Future. Great Britain licence and CBT rules are checked against GOV.UK/DVSA guidance. MotoEbikes’ 11 kW road-legal configuration is taken from the current MotoEbikes product information. The individual motorcycle’s V5C/CoC remains the decisive document for its registered specification.
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